Why the Audi A3 is Car of the Year 2013

* Audi A3 crowned What Car? Car of the Year 2013 * Sets a new benchmark in its class and is keenly priced * We explain exactly why it won...

Why the Audi A3 is Car of the Year 2013

The Audi A3 Sportback has been named 2013 What Car? Car of the Year at the 36th annual What Car? Awards, sponsored by Warranty Direct. The Audi A3 Sportback was also named Small Family Car of the Year.

What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett said: 'The Audi A3 Sportback mixes excellent refinement and an accomplished driving experience with easily the finest cabin quality ever seen in a small family hatchback.

'It sets a new benchmark and it is keenly priced, a combination that makes it a worthy Car of the Year.'

Here, new car editor Will Nightingale explains what made the Audi stand out against some very strong competition.

Read the full Audi A3 review >>