Introduction

With huge changes in car-buying habits and new models arriving thick and fast across almost every manufacturer’s range, the A3 is a consistent pillar of Audi’s core offering. While its interior technology has moved on, its familiar styling has survived with only minor tweaks. The A3 is still a family favourite for its mix of quality, understated style and relative affordability.

Did you know? The Audi A3 is no longer available as a three-door - a five-door Sportback is the only hatchback option.

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

The compact hatchback class is taking an ever-more distant back seat to a growing wave of small SUVs and crossovers, but the A3 offers a reminder of why this type of car was so popular for so long. It’s pricey at the top end of the range, but feels worth it thanks to excellent refinement, strong, efficient engines and an interior design that, curious air vents aside, is very easy to live with. It’s beaten by rivals for driving enjoyment, but musters a combination of talents that is very hard to beat.