For This is the entry-level A3, but you get many of the features of the pricier models, including top-notch interior quality, a full range of safety kit and fine handling.

Against This engine doesn't give the A3 the performance it deserves. The basic kit is there, but you miss out on remote stereo controls and an auxiliary-input socket.

Audi A3 Sportback

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

This is a highly desirable small hatchback for the same money as mid-range, lesser-name rivals. However, the weak engine and rather meagre kit betray its price

What Car? readers say

4.016129


Key facts

0–60mph
12.1 secs
Top speed
115 mph
Average mpg
40.4
Tank range
488 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole Audi A3 Sportback range

Cheaper

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Read in full

The full Audi A3 review


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 relatively cheap to buy and own, but the petrol unit is short of power and refinement. The 1.4 TFSI petrol and 2.0 TDI engines are better bets: 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.

Reader test team says:

Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 5dr

Three months and 5000 miles down the track. Nice car, handles well, the petrol engine is quiet but makes a satisfying growl when worked harder. My…

Mark Denison

2 out of 5 stars

Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI 170 quattro Sport S/S 5dr

Great car offering a really enjoyable drive. Grips exceptionaly well and accelerates at a good lick.The only downside is i had to specify loads of…

nick harris

4 out of 5 stars

Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI 140 Black Edition S/S 5dr

Having driven an A4 Avant S-Line for 3 years I was wondering how I would get on with the A3 Sportback. Had the A3 SB BE new from March 2011 (now Sept)…

Michael Higgins

5 out of 5 stars

Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 5dr

Early days with this car.Took delivery almost 2 weeks ago and haven't clocked up 1000 miles yet so am still keeping the revs down and allwing the…

Mark Denison

3 out of 5 stars
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