The model
Read full reviewThere's no doubt the latest A3 isn't as well finished inside or as polished overall as the previous model, but it still rates well against the premium competition, in the form of the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class. It's comfortable, enjoyable to drive, has space for the family, some punchy petrol and diesel engines and a plug-in option coming soon. It's also one of the slowest depreciating cars in the class, so we recommend you should stick it on your shopping list.
get the best priceThe trim
See full equipmentOur favourite trim when you have an eye on value for money. It comes with rear parking sensors, LED headlights, digital instruments, a 10.1in infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 16in alloy wheels, power-folding door mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto lights and wipers and 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
The engine
See full engine specsThe 1.5-litre 148bhp 35 TFSI petrol is our pick of the range. It’s cheaper than the 35 TDI but still gutsy throughout the rev range, pulling handsomely from around 200rpm and spinning freely all the way to the engine's red line. In our tests, it hit the magic 0-60mph time in a creditable 8.0sec (with a manual gearbox), and feels livelier than a BMW 118i. It also manage a test average of 42.5mpg.
Key information
48.7
380
litres
132
g/km
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