Audi A3 information: everything you need to know if you own it, are thinking of buying one or just want to find out more about Audi's Golf. Click on the links below for all of CAR magazine's news, reviews, videos, scoops and spy photos of the A3 car range. We list the top 10 stories for each model – and where appropriate you can click on 'More' to browse even more of our archive.
Background
This is the family hatch for those who deem the Golf not posh enough. Ironic, since the Audi is based on the same floorpan as its Volkswagen sibling. Pick from three-, five-door and cabrio A3s. For more information on the Audi A3, click on our further stories on the links below.
60sec road test
The Audi A3 is a strong seller, now muscling its way into the upper echelons of the British best-sellers' charts. It uses the much-lauded MQB architecture from parent company Volkswagen, which roughly translated means it's dripping with technology. Cylinder deactivation to save fuel, hover-finger-functions on the sat-nav and an extraordinary array of camera and radar tech are all available - at a price. But you can understand the premium Audi charges when you clap eyes on the A3; it is substantially built and feels easily one of the classiest cars available in the mid-sized hatchback segment. The icing on the cake is the way it drives. This is a very comfortable car to drive, yet one with the nimble responses of a Golf. And that's got to be a good thing, especially as you can pick from a multitude of engine and transmission choices, from front- and four-wheel drive. Chances are, there's an A3 to suit your budget and requirements.
The one we'd buy
2.0 TDI 148bhp
The one we'd avoid like the plague
1.2 TFSI
Rivals to consider
BMW 1-series, Kia Ceed, Peugeot 308, VW Golf, Volvo V40
For
So much better than earlier A3s: classy, drives well, great choice of models
Against
Not much to dislike here really
For more information, reviews, specs, prices and more data on the Audi A3, visit our sister website Parkers.co.uk