Audi A3 Hatchback 2.0 TDI 170 SE Start/Stop 3dr Review

For This is a desirable car, blending hot hatch pace with diesel running costs. For not much more than the basic model, SE cars feel every inch the premium small hatch.

Against When the 138bhp version is so strong, we have to question the wisdom of paying extra for this. Considering the price, you might expect more kit for your money.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

As a diesel, premium-badge stealth hot hatch, maybe its price tag seems reasonable. Looked at logically, though, it's a lot to pay when the 138bhp model is far from slow.

What Car? readers say

3.604651

Key facts

0–60mph: 8 secs
Top speed: 139 mph
Average mpg: 60.1
Tank range: 727 miles

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Features

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Size

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The full Audi A3 review

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Only the most basic engine disappoints
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Competent, but steering is overly light
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
1.6 petrol is too noisy
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
Expensive to buy, but holds its value well
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Classy cabin; should prove reliable
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Strong on both fronts
Behind The Wheel
3 out of 5 stars
Good driving position; dash tricky to read
Space & Practicality
4 out of 5 stars
Good in the front; not so good in rear
Equipment
3 out of 5 stars
Disappointing given the high price

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The A3 shares many of its parts and engines with the cheaper VW Golf, which is a mixed blessing. It means crisp handling and some fine engines, but you’ve got to question where all your extra money is going, since neither brand performs particularly well in our reliability or satisfaction surveys.

The entry-level petrol and diesel models are comparatively cheap to buy and own, but the petrol is short of power and refinement. The 1.4 TFSI petrol and 2.0 TDI engines are a better bet: both supply plenty of overtaking punch but are clean and frugal.

Entry-level trim supplies the basics, but if you’re paying this much, you may as well upgrade to SE, which adds some the kind of niceties you expect at this level. Sport and S line models have lowered suspension that makes the ride firm, so make sure that you’re happy to trade sporty looks for comfort. Sportback five-door models give a little extra practicality over three-door cars, but neither is particularly spacious.