By Damola Idowu
As someone who’s been immersed in automotive culture for decades—and a lifelong Audi fan—getting behind the wheel of the 2025 Audi A3 Premium Plus was more than just a test drive. It was a full-circle moment.
The model I drove came in a striking red finish that immediately caught attention. Compact yet bold, the A3 Premium Plus carries the design DNA of Audi’s performance lineage. It reminded me of the Audi TT I once drove—nimble and sporty—but this time with the practicality of four doors and a more refined interior.
I took the A3 through the heart of the Washington D.C. metro area, cruising along I-495, I-270, and I-95. Whether weaving through Beltway traffic or opening it up on longer stretches, the A3 delivered a smooth, responsive ride. It felt agile in tight city streets and confident on the highway.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 mild hybrid engine produces 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The acceleration was punchy, and the quattro all-wheel drive gave me confidence in every turn. Audi claims a 0–60 mph time of around 6.0 seconds, and I believe it—it’s quick.
Despite its sporty nature, the A3 is impressively efficient. It’s rated at 24 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined by the EPA. That’s a win for anyone who wants performance without sacrificing fuel economy.
One of the most memorable parts of the drive was listening to music I produced in collaboration with the Carnegie Mellon music department. The sound system in the A3 brought every note to life. With Apple CarPlay seamlessly integrated, I could control playlists, maps, and messages effortlessly.
The Premium Plus trim also includes:
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Wireless charging
• Audi virtual cockpit
It’s a tech-forward experience that enhances both safety and enjoyment.
My relationship with Audi runs deep. I’ve visited their Ingolstadt headquarters and followed the brand’s evolution from the Auto Union era to today’s cutting-edge innovations. Audi has always represented a blend of engineering excellence and artistic design to me.
Driving the A3 reminded me why I fell in love with the brand in the first place. I’m seriously considering one of their electrified models for my birthday this year.
The 2025 Audi A3 Premium Plus is:
• Stylish and compact
• Fun to drive with sporty performance
• Fuel-efficient
• Packed with advanced tech and safety features
Whether you’re new to the Audi family or a longtime fan like me, the A3 is a fantastic entry point into the brand. It’s a car that makes everyday driving feel extraordinary.
For more information, visit www.AudiUSA.com.