Comprehensive Guide to the Audi A3: Variants, Features, and Pricing

Audi A3 Overview: Models, Specifications, and Costs

As a luxury vehicle brand, Audi commands high regard, especially with its A3 series, which is a favorite in the compact luxury segment. The current lineup includes two main variants: the A3 Saloon, a classic sedan, and the A3 Sportback, a versatile hatchback. Despite their different designs, both models share several features, aiding buyers in making informed choices.

Variants and Performance of the Audi A3 Sedan

The A3 Saloon is offered in three trims: Sport, S line, and Black Edition.

Each trim varies in engine options and performance. The base Sport trim features five engine choices, including a 1.5L 30 TFSI petrol engine with 116 hp, available with manual transmission, and a 1.5L 30 TFSI S Tronic petrol engine with 116 hp, for automatic transmission. Additionally, there are 150 hp variants with 1.5L petrol engines, both manual and automatic. The diesel option includes a 2L TDI S Tronic engine delivering up to 150 hp. The S line trim shares similar engines but differs in wheel sizes (17-inch for Sport, 18-inch for S line) and exterior accents like bumpers. The Black Edition, the top-tier trim, offers three engine options: 1.5L petrol (manual and automatic) and a 2L TDI, all with 150 hp.

For the A3 Sportback, there are four trims: Sport, S Line, Black Edition, and S line Competition. The Sport trim includes six engines, with the first five matching the A3 Saloon's options, plus a plug-in hybrid 1.4L 40 TFSI e with 204 hp. The S line and Black Edition trims have comparable engines to their sedans. The S line Competition is exclusive to plug-in hybrid powertrains, offering two options: 245 hp and similar tech Pro variants.

Additional Highlights

Boot Capacity

The sedan offers approximately 425 liters of boot space with all seats upright, owing to its traditional design. In contrast, the hatchback provides around 280 to 380 liters, depending on seat configuration, still competitive within its class.

Safety and Security

Both models come equipped with essential safety features: anti-theft alarms, immobilizers, wheel locks, and remote central locking. Advanced driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision avoidance, emergency call, and driver alert systems.

Driver Assistance and Infotainment

Features enhancing driving comfort include rain-sensing wipers, a 12.3-inch full HD Virtual Cockpit display, and Audi Drive Select for terrain-specific modes, making driving more intuitive.

Price Range

The base Audi A3 Sportback starts at approximately £29,000, while the Saloon begins around £30,000. Prices vary with trims and added features. For budget-conscious buyers, a used model offers an affordable alternative with customizable features.