Audi A3 Saloon review

If you're in the market for a hatchback but you heart is longing for something a little swisher, have you considered the Audi A3 Saloon? Sure, when viewed from the front it could be mistaken for an A3 Sportback, but side-on it has an unmistakably more upmarket silhouette. Which was the intention, because this is a compact premium executive aimed at those who don't have the need, or perhaps the budget, for the bigger, traditional executive cars. You know the ones we're referring to, of course, their names trip off the tongue readily: the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and even Audi’s own A4.

Don't assume that smaller and cheaper means less good, because the A3 Saloon's minimalist interior is as high quality as they come. But is that enough to persuade you to take the plunge? 

Read on over the next few pages to get our in-depth impressions of the A3 Saloon, along with our recommendations for which trim levels and engines are best. And whether it's an A3 Saloon or one of its rivals you decide on, don't forget to check out our new car deals page, where you'll find the very best deals.