Version review

Audi A3 Saloon 30 TFSI S line 4dr [Comfort+Sound] Review

Why the overall winner won

Best small SUV

Best family car

Best small electric car

Best luxury car

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

site ribbon config

30 TFSI

Saloon

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV have all won their classes at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in recent years, while the TT coupé is the most decorated car in the history of the ceremony.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

S line trim brings sportier looks; larger wheels (18in), more heavily bolstered front seats and aluminium interior inlays. You also get stiffer sports suspension as standard, although you can revert to the regular suspension for no extra charge if you value a smooth ride.

S line

30 TFSI S line 4dr [Comfort+Sound]

30-tfsi-s-line-4dr-comfortsound

Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) including ABS, ASR and EDL

Driver and front passenger airbag with passenger airbag deactivation

LED headlights with LED rear lights and dynamic rear indicators

Electrically adjustable/heated/folding/dimming door mirrors with kerb view includes integrated LED indications + kerb view function for passenger side

4 way electrically adjustable lumbar support for driver and front passenger

Rear side airbags with head airbag system

Aluminium interior elements pack - A3 Saloon

Audi A3 Saloon

The Audi A3 Saloon is tidy in the bends, comfortable and well equipped, making it a very competitive option against its closest rivals, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and Mercedes A-Class Saloon. However, the A4 is worth the extra if you can afford it, because it’s quieter and has a classier and more practical interior. Likewise, the BMW 3 Series betters the A3 in those areas, and it's also more enjoyable to drive.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes. If rear space is crucial and you’re willing to put up with a less-than-premium badge, the Skoda Superb is tough to beat, while if you want a premium badge on the bonnet then the BMW 3 Series is consistently one of our favourites in this class.

And don't think you're limited to just petrol or diesel-powered choices in this class,&nbsp;because at the top end the Tesla Model 3 is well worth considering for its long range and engaging driving style.

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

Audi A3 Saloon 30 TFSI S line 4dr [Comfort+Sound] Review

Get the best price with What Car?

The model

The trim

The engine

Buying with What Car?

Key information

Available colours

50.4

425

litres

128

g/km

Also consider

Mazda 3 Saloon

Mazda 6

Audi A3 Saloon

Skoda Superb

Quick search

Tools & services

Legal bits

Information