Name: Audi A3 (2013 to 2020) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Audi A3
Rating: 62.0

Table of contents – Audi A3 (2012 to 2020)

[–]

Summary

The third-generation Audi A3 first arrived in the UK as a three-door hatchback in early 2013, before the range was expanded to include the four-door saloon and five-door ‘Sportback’ hatchback. it was sold here in the UK until eaarly 2020, when it was replaced by the current, fourth-generation, A3 range.

The range included a plug-in hybrid, called the ‘Sportback e-tron’. More performance-focused S3 models were also available in all three body styles, while the hottest of hot hatches was the RS 3 model, which is not covered here. There was also a convertible version, called the A3 Cabriolet, which is covered on a separate page.

The A3 range was given a mid-life facelift in early 2016, which included various cosmetic changes and tech upgrades inside and out, but no major alterations.

Popular throughout its tenure, the third-generation Audi A3 received global acclaim from the outset, being crowned World Car of the Year in 2014. Reviewers continued to give the A3 range high marks after its mid-life facelift – Auto Trader concluded, “the Audi A3 is one of the best cars of its type, and well worthy of anyone’s consideration.”

Most motoring outlets were impressed by the A3’s premium-feel interior trim and the generous levels of equipment included as standard, as well as the car’s post-facelift exterior styling, its agile driving dynamics and the range of efficient engines available. Many reviewers who were given a test drive in the Sportback model also praised the five-door version’s improved practicality when compared to the original three-door model.

Facing off against upmarket rivals like the BMW 1 Series, the third-generation A3 received one consistent criticism during its lifespan – that the range was too expensive. Although entry-level models were reasonably affordable when new, top-spec models were much more expensive, leading to a few journalists wondering if paying the Audi premium was worth it. “A Volkswagen Golf does almost everything just as well for less money”, Carbuyer explained, “but the A3’s upmarket image will appeal to plenty of potential buyers.”

As of August 2024, the third-generation Audi A3 holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 62%. It gets good grades for its media review scores, but its reliability record is poor and its safety rating has long expired.

A3 highlights

Comfortable and refined cabin
Quality range of engines
Attractive exterior styling
Plenty of on-board tech as standard
Low running costs

A3 lowlights

Strong brand image inflates used model price
Rivals offer more value-for-money
Reliability of the automatic gearbox is questionable
Larger alloys mean a firmer ride
BMW 1 Series has more driver’s appeal

Key specifications

Body style: Medium hatchback and saloon
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price when new: From £19,365 on-road

Launched: Winter 2012/13
Last updated: Spring 2016
Replaced: Spring 2020

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert+

Score: 8 / 10
“The mid-life update adds to the A3’s appeal with a host of useful new technology, though making use of much of it could require extensive delving into the options list, bumping up the price.
Read review

Auto Express+

Model reviewed: 2013-2019 hatch
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi A3 is a popular premium hatch that’s efficient, good to drive and has a classy feel.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3 2013-2019
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi S3 packs a turbocharged punch and has tremendous quattro 4WD grip, its understated looks and grown-up driving manners mean it flies under the radar when compared to some wild looking rivals.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3 2013
Score: 8 / 10
“The new S3 feels as crushingly fast as its predecessor in a straight line, but makes unexpected improvements in other areas.”
Read review

Auto Trader+

Model reviewed: Sportback
Score: 8 / 10
“With its combination of strong practicality, smart (but understated) good looks, excellent quality and low running costs, the Audi A3 is one of the best cars of its type, and well worthy of anyone’s consideration.”
Read review

Autocar+

Model reviewed: Sportback 2013-20
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Sportback offers the same ownership virtues as the three-door car, but fails to address the small Audi’s dynamic shortcomings.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3 2016-2020
Score: 8 / 10
“There’s quite a lot to be said for a car that’s as capable and secure as the Audi S3 is when it comes to regular everyday driving.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2012-2020 saloon
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 is a competent cruiser, a worthy opponent to rivals such as BMW’s 120i M Sport, Lexus’s IS 200t and Mercedes-Benz’s CLA 220 CDI Sport; while it is also a compelling option alongside the classy BMW 3 Series.”
Read review

Car+

Model reviewed: (2016) 1.4 TFSI S Line
Score: 8 / 10
“A tidy-handling, desirable car with a still-lovely interior and enough updates to give its drivers a subtle sense of one-upmanship over drivers of pre-May 2016 A3s.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Saloon (2016)
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s still a very likeable car, this S3 Saloon. There’s a certain Q-car appeal about a three-box car based on a hatchback, and under the skin we found genuine ability in many areas.”
Read review

Car Keys+

Model reviewed:
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3 hatchback is a premium small family car, with a well-appointed cabin and wide range of diesel and petrol engines, front- and four-wheel drive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0TDI 150 S line (2016)
Score: 9 / 10
“If you spend a lot of time on the road and really value a first-rate interior and the requisite modern tech, the A3 Sportback is a very convincing all-rounder.”
Read review

Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: S3 Sportback (2013-2020)
Score: 6.6 / 10
“The S3 delivers hot-hatchback performance without the stereotypical boy-racer brashness.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback (2013-20)
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A3 Sportback is practical and luxurious family hatchback that – despite the relatively high price tag – is easy to recommend.”
Read review

Model reviewed: A3 Sportback
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Sportback is practical and luxurious family hatchback that – despite the relatively high price tag – is easy to recommend.”

Model reviewed: A3 Saloon
Score: 7.8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Saloon looks sharp and has a fantastic interior plus a great range of engines. It’s surprisingly practical, too.”

Carwow+

Model reviewed: S3 Sportback (2017-2020)
“The S3 is incredibly fast and can even pass as practical even if it doesn’t look nearly as special as it actually is.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3 saloon 2017
Score: 7 / 10
“The S3 saloon is a master of many trades: fast, sure-footed, a head-turner in the company car park; and you could – just about – use it as a family car.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2013-2019
“Those looking for a premium hatchback will not be disappointed by the classy A3.”
Read review

Company Car Today+

Model reviewed: 2013-2019 hatchback
“A desirable and sensible choice of company car.”
Read review

Daily Mirror+

Model reviewed: 2013-2019 (facelift) hatchback
“If you’re an Audi lover and you’ve owned A3s before, you’ll not be disappointed with this car.”
Read review

Eurekar+

Model reviewed:
“The Audi A3 model built between 2012 and 2018 has marvellous handling and road holding with the standard suspension.”
Read review

Model reviewed: https://www.eurekar.co.uk/articles/2016-05-25/audi-a3-2016—review
“The Audi A3 raises an already high bar even further, with cleaner, greener and more economical engines and a host of the latest high-tech goodies available throughout the range.”
Read review

Evo+

Model reviewed: A3 Sportback (2013-20)
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 has a high quality interior, excellent drivetrains, and relaxed driving manners.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s fast, yet completely trustworthy as there’s so much grip and traction.”
Read review

Fleetworld+

Model reviewed: https://fleetworld.co.uk/audi-a3/
“Audi hasn’t pulled any surprises with the new A3, and why would it when the current model is still so popular? Greener engines, a larger interior and the same high quality will boost its appeal.”
Read review

Green Car Guide+

Model reviewed: 1.6 TDI Sport 6-speed
Score: 9 / 10
“The new Audi A3 1.6 TDI is a quality product that has very few areas of weakness.”
Read review

Heycar+

Model reviewed:
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Sportback looks great, has a brilliant interior that’s ageing well and comes with plenty of standard kit for the money. It’s also great to drive.”
Read review

Honest John+

Model reviewed: S3 2013
Score: 8 / 10
“The S3 offers enjoyable performance and handling but feels safe and controllable, which is a great blend for a family-sized hot hatchback.”
Read review

Motoring Research+

Model reviewed: Sportback
Score: 9 / 10
“More space, more technology and a good driving experience make the latest Audi A3 Sportback one of our favourite family hatchbacks.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Saloon
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3 Saloon is a pricey but very well-rounded and likeable family car.
Read review

Motors.co.uk+

Model reviewed:
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3 is more enjoyable to drive than before, with lots of standard kit and lassy styling.”
Read review

Parkers+

Model reviewed: Hatchback (2012-18)
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3 is still a leader in terms of image and quality.”
Read review

Model reviewed: https://www.parkers.co.uk/audi/a3/s3/review/
Score: 9 / 10
“The new Audi S3 is a very impressive take on the ‘warm hatch’.”
Read review

The Sun+

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre turbo 150hp
“The Audi A3 turbo is fast and playful and sounds great, which is important.”
Read review

Model reviewed:
“The improved A3 has a ride that is is whisper quiet and because it’s an Audi the build quality is second to none.”
Read review

The Sunday Times+

Model reviewed: Sportback
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 is a welcome refresh of the trusty hatchback.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2012
Score: 6 / 10
“The Audi A3 is a little bit characterless but a beautiful object, inside and out. Now much better to drive, too.”
Read review

The Telegraph+

Model reviewed: 2016 facelift
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3 is not only the best car in its class, but one of the best new cars on sale full stop.”
Read review

Top Gear+

Model reviewed:
Score: 7 / 10
“The latest version of the car that defined the premium hatch sector stays classy, with an advanced chassis and breadth of abilities.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 306bhp Audi S3 Quattro
“The Audi S3’s reactive but numb steering and sterile stability add up to something that’s more effective than fun.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Sport 4dr (2012)
Score: 7 / 10
“The A3’s cabin is amazing. Audi has raised the quality bar again.”
Read review

What Car?+

Model reviewed: S3 2013-2019
Score: 8 / 10
“The S3 has more than enough boost in any gear at any speed and the handling is also seriously impressive, while the steering is precise and well weighted.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2013-2019
Score: 10 / 10
“The Audi A3 is an impressively refined car that’s also supremely agile and a pleasure to drive, with precise steering and surefooted handling.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: August 2012
Date expired: January 2019
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 95%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 74%
Safety assist: 86%

Notes on safety rating

The Audi A3 was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2012 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2019 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used Audi A3 to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The third-generation Audi A3 was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 665
Average repair cost: £646.89
Last updated: August 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

As of August 2024, the Audi A3 has a below-average reliability rating of 59%, according to warranty data provided exclusively to us by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This score applies to both this generation A3 and also to both newer (2020 onwards) and previous (pre-2013) generations.

The average repair bill for claims is about £650, which is more than the cost of a used car warranty. That’s certainly worth considering if you are looking at a used A3.

Most repair bills to date seem to be pretty average in terms of cost. Gearbox problems are the most expensive to fix, which is not unusual, so make sure any used car warranty you purchase covers you for this.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

No data yet

As of August 2024, we don’t have independently verified data available for the Audi A3. Check back again soon.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Audi A3

Date: August 2019
Model types: All
Build dates: 1/2014 to 09/2014
Number of vehicles affected: 133
Defect: The belt pulley for the camshaft adjuster may break or the bolts for the camshaft adjuster housing may come loose.
Remedy: The camshaft adjuster must be replaced on the affected vehicles.

Date: February 2019
Model types: All
Build dates: 04/2018 to 06/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 1,573
Defect: The centre rear head restraint may not be to specification.
Remedy: Check the head restraint and replace if necessary.

Date: November 2018
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2018 to 09/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 147
Defect: The rear back rest head restraint mounting is not correctly welded.
Remedy: Check and replace rear back rest frame if required.

Date: February 2018
Model types: All
Build dates: 07/2014 to 11/2014
Number of vehicles affected: 6
Defect: There is a possibility of a faulty weld on the gas generator. If the airbag is deployed there is a risk that parts could be projected into the cabin with risk of injury to the occupants.
Remedy: On affected vehicles replace the front passenger airbag module with a correctly manufactured version.

Date: November 2017
Model types: All
Build dates: 08/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 30
Defect: The hardening process for the rear wheel bearing housings may not have been correctly performed. In the worst case, this could lead to a fractured housing. Should a fractured housing occur, there would be abnormal noises, bad tyre wear, and a theoretical possibility of wheel loss.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the right and left rear wheel bearing housings.

As of August 2024, there have been five DVSA vehicle safety recalls on this generation of the Audi A3. These cover sunroof motors, tyre size data, software and different battery issues.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used A3, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Audi A3 received

2019

What Car? Used Car Awards – Used Car of the Year

2017

Business Car Awards – Best Compact Premium Car
Fleet News Awards – Best Compact Premium Car
What Car? Awards – Best Family Car (Sportback) + Best Executive Car between £25k-£30k (saloon)

2016