Audi A3 Hatchback 2.0 TFSI SE 3dr Review

For This desirable small hatch has butt-kicking pace and a high-quality cabin. For not much more than the basic model, SE models feel every inch the premium small hatch.

Against You might expect a little more kit for your money. Do you need such a powerful petrol engine? You need to be sure, because the 1.4 TFSI and 2.0 TDI make more sense.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

As a stealth hot hatch, this is worth a look. It's brutally quick and handles well, but looks like a basic model. Therein lies the problem, because it costs a lot of money.

What Car? readers say

3.604651

Key facts

0–60mph: 7 secs
Top speed: 148 mph
Average mpg: 39.8
Tank range: 482 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.