Name: Audi A3 (2020 – present) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Audi A3
Rating: 70.0

Summary

The Audi A3 is a mid-size hatchback (called Sportback) and saloon model, that sits above the A1 hatchback and below the A4 saloon in the Audi range. The current model is the fourth-generation A3, with the Sportback models arriving in the UK in middle of 2020. The saloon models followed later in the year.

Like previous models, the A3 is based on the Volkswagen Golf and shares many of its components with other models in the Audi, VW, Skoda and SEAT families. The top-spec model in the A3 range is the Audi S3, which is arrived on UK roads in Autumn 2020. Audi added to its petrol and diesel A3 line-up in Autumn 2021, unveiling a plug-in hybrid version.

A high-performance RS 3 model launched in Winter 2021. Available as both a Sportback and Saloon, the RS 3 cost more than double the price of an entry-level model in the standard A3 range.

The A3 has received praise for overall refinement and driving dynamics that are significantly better than the previous-generation model, but its interior has been criticised for a very user-unfriendly touchscreen infotainment system.

A mid-life update for the A3 and S3 was revealed in Spring 2024, and the first updated cars arrived in the UK in early Summer. Most of the changes are cosmetic, with a few performance updates for the S3 models.

The Audi A3 range has received generally good scores from the UK media. Combined with better-than-average scores for safety, CO₂ emissions and running costs, it adds up to an Expert Rating score of B (70%) as both a new and used model. It would be even better, however, if it wasn’t for a poor reliability score (although this includes previous A3 models as well as the current model).

Audi A3 highlights

More comfortable than most superminis
Loads of advanced tech from more expensive Audis
Great residual values
Responsive handling
Perfect driving position

Audi A3 lowlights

Can’t match a Mini for driving dynamics
Loud road noise at higher speeds
Rather awkward infotainment system
Rivals have more boot space
A-Class and 1 Series are often cheaper

Key specifications

Body style: Five-door hatchback
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £29,515 on-road

Launched: Spring 2020
Last updated: Spring 2024
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express+

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“Subtle exterior changes and a tech-laden interior help the Audi A3 maintain its position as a premium family hatchback.”
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Model reviewed: 40 TFSI e 2021
Score: 7 / 10
“This Audi A3 PHEV should appeal to company-car choosers, but everyone else may be put off by the higher list price and still-modest electric-only range. It’s beautifully finished inside and has lots of appealing tech, but its performance is compromised.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S3 saloon
Score: 7 / 10
“As an all-rounder, the new Audi S3 Saloon holds plenty of appeal, and the reduction in price between it and the cheaper Sportback hatchback makes it more tempting than ever. In pure performance terms it’s hard to fault, though buyers looking for more involvement should look elsewhere.”
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Model reviewed: S3
Score: 7 / 10
“It’s hard to fault the new Audi S3 for the way it makes its performance oh-so accessible. However, the way it drives is only a mild evolution, so those expecting a new experience will need to look elsewhere. Instead, the big changes are technological, and in the cabin.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual 35 TFSI S line hatchback
Score: 8 / 10
“It’s business as usual for the Audi A3 Sportback, which slots neatly into the premium hatchback market with high quality, good refinement and a price that makes it a very competitive offering for anyone after this sort of car.”
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Model reviewed: A3 saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“Audi has carefully improved its A3 Saloon package holding true to the successful formula while adding lots of new technology.”
Read review

Auto Trader+

Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback range
Score: 8.2 / 10
“A masterclass in how to put premium gloss on a humble hatchback, the latest Audi A3 Sportback combines angular and aggressive new styling with a swanky cabin bristling with the latest technology.”
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Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“If you’re considering a mid-size executive saloon like the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series, then perhaps give the Audi A3 Saloon a look first. It’s smaller, but it’s also cheaper and it delivers the quality and driving manners to compete.”
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Car+

Model reviewed: S3 Sportback
Score: 8 / 10
“The new 2020 Audi S3 continues its positioning at the posher end of the hot hatch scale. The sheer pace and grip available from the engine and drivetrain are more than enough to be worth your time, in that very polished, all-round package kind of way.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual 35 S line
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 saloon is not tremendously exciting – you’d have to look at a Mercedes A-Class saloon for more visual drama and clever tech, or perhaps Audi’s own S3 saloon if you want performance thrills – but it’s an impressive small saloon that’ll look good on your driveway.”
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Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“Although the new Audi A3 Sportback technically owes a lot to the Volkswagen Golf 8, it has its own character, and comes across as a far more complete, sharp-looking and frankly desirable hatchback.”
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Car Keys+

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 9 / 10
“Audi might not have thrown out the rule book with the new A3, but it didn’t really need to. That said, big improvements have been made to the on-board technology, while it’s better to drive than ever. When new engines and powertrains join the range, it’ll offer plenty of choice to buyers.”
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Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8.4 / 10
“The striking Audi A3 Sportback now has the technology it needs to compete with rivals.” (Charlie Harvey)
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Model reviewed: S3 hatchback
Score: 7.4 / 10
“The Audi S3 is a refined and quick hot hatchback with lots of tech”
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Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 7.8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Saloon now has the latest in engine and interior technology.”
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Carwow+

Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Saloon is a classy, high tech four-door that is also great to drive. Audi’s A3 Sportback is the more practical choice, though.”
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Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Sportback has one of the best looking interiors of its kind. It has advanced tech and is well made. It’s also a bit more expensive than alternatives.”
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Company Car Today+

Model reviewed: PHEV
“If you’re a company car driver, no other A3 makes more sense than the PHEV.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual S line
Score: 7.8 / 10
“Not the most dramatic of replacement models, but the high-quality new Audi A3 does things a little better than its predecessor while looking sharper inside and out.”
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Fleetworld+

Model reviewed: Sportback 40 TFSI e
Score: 8 / 10
“The best version of the latest A3 Sportback yet – still as stylish and well-made as ever. Yet, the 40 TFSI e offers an enviable mix of performance and economy that are sure to bring real-world cost savings.”
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Heycar+

Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 Saloon proves that small saloons don’t have to be dull. With a sharpish design, it stands out more than its hatchback counterpart plus the interior has the same quality appeal as larger Audi saloons. Classy and upmarket, it majors on refinement and comfort.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 has a very modern interior and comes well-equipped for the money. It’s good to drive, too – with high refinement and economical engines. Our biggest gripe is whether it’s worth the extra cash over the Volkswagen Golf.”
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Honest John+

Model reviewed: Saloon range
“Although marginally bigger than its predecessor, the Audi A3 Saloon isn’t noticeably different in terms of dimensions.”
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Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“While the Audi A3 does represent good value for money, you do pay more for the higher quality finish compared to the Volkswagen Golf.”
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Motors+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi A3’s cabin isn’t class-leading when it comes to spaciousness, but if you’re after a compact car and don’t require seven-seater levels of room, it’s a worthy choice.”
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The Sun+

Model reviewed: Quattro All-wheel-drive
“This Quattro’s advanced new Haldex clutch system enables the S3 for the first time ever to drive with 100 per cent power sent direct to the rear wheels for those blissful moments that magnetic tarmac traction is not the priority.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol automatic S line Sportback
“Audi A3 Sportback S line’s advanced tech and design trump BMW and Mercedes – it’s a pleasure to drive”
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The Telegraph+

Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A3 is the poshest Golf and has the edge on comfort.”
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Top Gear+

Model reviewed: Saloon range
Score: 7 / 10
“Everything good about the Audi A3 Sportback, just a little less practical. A complete car that won’t get on your nerves.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Sportback hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“Fussy design inside and out doesn’t spoil a really rather good family hatchback.”
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Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: December 2020
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 89%
Child protection: 81%
Vulnerable road users: 68%
Safety assist: 73%

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

Model tested: A3 Sportback 1.5-litre petrol automatic

Overall score: 3 stars
Date tested: February 2021
Read the full Green NCAP review

Clean Air Index: 6.4 / 10
Energy Efficiency Index: 5.5 / 10
Greenhouse Gas Index: 4.8 / 10

The Audi A3 Sportback 1.5-litre petrol automatic received a three-star rating from Green NCAP in February 2021. Green NCAP said: “This fourth generation A3 shares the ubiquitous MQB platform with many of its VW-group stablemates and is tested here with the 1.5 litre petrol engine producing 110 kW and a hefty 250 Nm of torque.

“The car’s exhaust after-treatment – a three-way catalyst and a gasoline particulate filter – does a good job of controlling pollutant emissions and the car achieves an impressive index of 6.4 for Clean Air. Efficiency is also good considering engine output, with an average consumption of 6.3 l/100 km. CO₂ emissions are moderate while control of other important, albeit unregulated greenhouse gases, is very good.

“The car performs well overall and fully deserves its three-star rating.”

This rating only applies to the 1.5-litre petrol (TSI) automatic version of the Audi A3 Sportback, and does not imply similar ratings for other engine and gearbox combinations in the range (although there will be no significant difference between saloon and hatchback body styles).

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 679
Average repair cost: £643.58
Last updated: October 2024

Reliability score

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

The Audi A3 family has a below-average reliability score of 59%, according to workshop data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This covers both the current model (2020 onwards) and previous generations.

Based on extensive data, the A3 has had issues across all the major mechanical systems (engine, gearbox, fuel system, suspension, brakes and electrics) with an average repair bill of about £650. Unsurprisingly, gearbox repairs tend to be the most expensive, with an average bill of £1,500.

If you own an Audi A3 or are looking at buying a used A3, it’s worth considering a used car warranty that covers all these major areas.

Running cost rating

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

Fuel consumption	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	49 mpg	C	30 – 55 mpg	B – E
Diesel models	56 mpg	B	44 – 67 mpg	A – C
Plug-in hybrid models	232 mpg	A	141 – 283 mpg	A – A

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	134 g/km	A	115 – 216 g/km	A – D
Diesel models	132 g/km	A	110 – 167 g/km	A – C
Plug-in hybrid models	28 g/km	A	25 – 46 g/km	A – A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	38 miles	D	22 – 40 miles	D – E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	22	A	14 – 50	A – F

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£201	B
Year 2	£553	B
Year 3	£899	B
Year 4	£1,145	B
Year 5	£1,567	B
Overall	£4,365	B

The running costs for the Audi A3 are generally pretty reasonable. Fuel consumption is pretty average for the petrol cars and better-than-average for the diesel models. On paper, the plug-in hybrid models look fantastic, but those numbers are nonsense due to the limitations of the EU/UK lab testing process – it’s not Audi’s fault that the plug-in hybrid numbers are meaningless.

Insurance costs should be very reasonable based on the A3’s insurance group – although some of the top models have much higher insurance group ratings. Finally, scheduled servicing and maintenance costs over the first five years are also good.

Recalls

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

2023

2022

2021

Date: August 2023
Model types: All
Build dates: 03/2020 to 05/2023
Number of vehicles affected: 104,162
Defect: On affected vehicles an electrical connector for the power supply for the fuse carrier in the interior of the vehicle may have not been installed correctly.
Remedy: Check the electrical connection and secure if necessary.

Date: October 2022
Model types: All
Build dates: 09/2021 to 11/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 174
Defect: The restraining capability of the belt system for the front seats may be lower than intended in the event of an accident.
Remedy: As a precautionary safety measure it is necessary to replace both front seat belts. Advice is given “against transporting children on the front passenger seat until the seat belts have been replaced”.

Date: April 2022
Model types: A3 e-tron models
Build dates: 10/2020 to 02/2022
Number of vehicles affected: 3,656
Defect: The fuse in the high-voltage system (HV system) in vehicles built within a limited period may have been manufactured with an insufficient quantity of extinguishing sand.
Remedy: Insulation must be fitted above the switching unit for the high-voltage battery.

Date: September 2021
Model types: All
Build dates: 08/2020 to 05/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 11
Defect: The bolted connection of the pull rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal may come loose resulting in a loss of all service braking ability.
Remedy: Vehicles are not to be driven and the bolted connection of the input rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal must be checked and if necessary retightened.

As of August 2024, there have been four DVSA vehicle safety recalls on the Audi A3, one of which is specifically for e-tron plug-in hybrid models. The recalls cover electrics, seat belts and brakes on all models, and the high-voltage battery for the plug-in hybrid.

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.