Should I buy one of these compact cars, or an Audi A3?

Hyundai Elantra
Honda Civic
Toyata Corrolla
Mazda3
Ford Focus
Chevy Cruze
Volkswagon Jetta

OR

Audi A3, either fwd or awd

Added (1). it would be about $10k-12k more, depending on the compact car I pick instead of the A3

Ghkhkgk

I believe the audi 3 is fair more expensive that all of the previous ones. If you have money and don't mind the high fuel comsuming of an Audi I will pick that one, though the Mazda 3 is a great overal option.

I recommend you to check the insurange coverage for that audi, prior to purchase it. It could be so high you may regret buying it. Also take into acount you are diciding on a car that is at least two steps above the other ones, so it is not an apropiate comparison.

Get the Toyota. It will still be running when Texas bans high school football.

Mazda 3 is the best value. Well equipped as standard, compared to the others (especially the Germans) which will need extra $$$ to get to the same spec level. A3 is just a Golf in Armani, so don't waste your money, unless you really gotta have those rings.

I would go with either the Chevy Cruze, Mazda 3 or Toyota Corolla. I would test drive all three and get what you like the best and with the best deal. Whatever you decide I strongly recommend a 6 speed manual transmission!

If the extra $13,000 isn't a financial burden for you then buy the car you want. But for most people $13,000 is A LOT of money.

Don't forget the Audi will cost more to maintain, cost more to insure and cost more to drive (full synthetic oil and premium fuel required)