Costs & verdict
Everyday costs, plus how reliable and safe it is
Costs, insurance groups, MPG and CO2
The Audi A3 Sportback carries a slight price premium over equivalent versions of the BMW 1 Series but it's a little cheaper than the Mercedes A-Class. It should hold on to a much higher percentage of its list price after three years, which means its PCP finance deals tend to be more competitive. Check out our New Car Buying service for the latest offers.
Officially, the A3's engines deliver fuel economy and CO2 emissions in line with its rivals. The 35 TFSI petrol (with a manual gearbox) averaged a very respectable 42.5mpg in our real-world test – that’s a lot better than the BMW 118i. Unsurprisingly, the diesels are more efficient and they are RDE2 compliant, so company car users won't have to pay the 4% benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax diesel surcharge.
Equipment, options and extras
The entry-level Technik trim represents the best value overall, giving you cruise control, air-conditioning, power-folding door mirrors, 16in alloy wheels, auto lights and wipers, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. It also comes with the infotainment package, parking and safety aids we've already mentioned.
Go up to Sport and you get dual-zone climate control, a part-leather/ part-faux leather interior and 17in wheels. S line brings 18in alloys, privacy glass, dynamic indicators, sportier styling touches and front sports seats, while Vorsprung has every option ticked, but it is expensive.
