Used test: Audi A3 vs Mercedes A-Class: verdict

Our verdict

If you're tempted by the chic exterior and interior of the Mercedes A-Class you're not alone. It's an alluring product, although one with notable flaws. The jarring ride and sloppy handling make it a disappointment to drive, and the engine is annoyingly noisy. 

The Audi A3 is the opposite. When you take it for an enthusiastic spin, it's competent and capable, while on a calm cruise, it's relaxed and refined. The plush A3 proves a much more polished product than the A-Class – yet it's a cheaper used buy. Ideally, we'd opt for the five-door, but even this three-door version takes the cake.

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1st – Audi A3

For Gorgeous interior; brilliant to drive; super quiet; cheap to buy and run
Against Slightly firm ride

What Car? says 5 out of 5

Read the full used Audi A3 review >>

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2nd – Mercedes-Benz A-Class

For Posh style; smart interior; decent amount of space
Against Awful ride; unpolished handling; noisy; more expensive to buy and run

What Car? says 2 out of 5

Read the full used Mercedes A-Class review >>

Find a used Mercedes A-Class for sale >>

Specifications: Audi A3 2.0 TDI 150 Sport

Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 148bhp
Torque 236lb ft
0-60mph 8.6sec
Top speed 130mph
Fuel economy 68.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 106g/km

Specifications: Mercedes-Benz A200 CDI Sport

Engine size 1.8-litre diesel
Power 134bhp
Torque 221lb ft
0-60mph 8.7sec
Top speed 124mph
Fuel economy 62.8mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 118g/km

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