For S line models' unique trim and lowered suspension make the most of the A3's sporting pretensions. Part-leather trim and metallic inserts boost the cabin and the engine gives performance to match.

Against At this price you have to wonder if you're getting good value, considering the A3's size. The lowered S line suspension brings an unwelcome restless quality to the ride.

Audi A3 Sportback

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

This has sporty looks and power to match, but the price is equally hard-hitting. Running costs are affordable and there's lots of kit, but you don't have to pay this much for a good A3.

What Car? readers say

4.016129


Key facts

0–60mph
7.8 secs
Top speed
138 mph
Average mpg
42.8
Tank range
518 miles
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Features

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Size

schematic See all measurements

View the whole Audi A3 Sportback range

Cheaper

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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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