Audi A3 Sportback models and trim levels explained
We walk you through the Audi A3 Sportback range and see which model suits your needs
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The Audi A3 Sportback is a popular five-door model that’s not short on space or style, and its 2016 facelift gave it a modern look that’s made the car more popular with younger drivers.
Based on the same tech as the Skoda Octavia, Seat Leon and Volkswagen Golf, the A3 is the more premium model that gets a luxe interior packed with tech and a seriously impressive drive.
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There is a range of engines to choose from in the A3 Sportback lineup, including a three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbo that sits in post-facelift models and is ideal for everyday driving while still feeling a treat.
There’s also a plug-in hybrid option, plus a choice of automatic Audi A3 models and classic manuals.
You’ll struggle to find anything wrong with any A3 option, as it has a well-earned reputation as a just-about-perfect car.
The Audi A3 is a great alternative to its sibling models but also rivals the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
Audi A3 models explained
The Audi A3 is a well-rounded car with its fair share of brilliant features, but it might not be the car for everyone.
An Audi A3 Sportback might be the one for you if:
You want to pick from a wide range of engines that are all impressive at what they do.
You like a sporty feel and a comfortable driving position.
You enjoy the premium feel that comes with an Audi, which gives the A3 a luxurious edge over the competition.
There are some things you might want to consider about the Audi A3 Sportback that might make the A3 Saloon a better choice. Consider if:
You need a larger boot, as the A3 Saloon has more space at the rear.
You want to stick to a smaller budget and would be happy with one of the A3’s sibling models.
You’d prefer a saloon shape over a hatchback, or don’t enjoy the sporty feel.
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Audi A3 trim levels explained
Technik
The Technik trim is the entry-level option for the Audi A3 and offers tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone mirroring, rear parking sensors, and cruise control.
Sport
Get a step up from the Technik in the Sport trim, offering all the entry-level features plus large alloys and luxe upholstery.
S Line
The S Line trim offers even bigger alloys and additional sporty styling, plus sports suspension.
Black Edition
The Audi A3 Black Edition is the S Line underneath, with extra black detailing. Think matte or gloss black exterior details and larger alloys, plus privacy glass.
S Line Competition
The sporty feel of the S Line trim gets turned up further in the S Line Competition, with black detailing around the car and red brake callipers. You can also grab this one with the plug-in hybrid engine.
Vorsprung
The Audi A3 Vorsprung model is the cream of the crop, adding a heads-up display, leather sports seats, and dual-zone climate control.
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Best Audi A3 Sportback Engines
You’re spoilt for choice in the Audi A3 range – there are petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid models, plus a choice of automatic and manual gearboxes.
The 30 TFSI model is the entry-level choice that offers 116hp from a 1.0-litre engine, and that’s followed by a chunkier 35 TFSI with a 1.5-litre turbo engine putting out 150hp.
The latter option is ideal for motorists who want a bit more power and pull, while the entry-level choice is easy to drive and doesn’t feel sluggish.
For diesel choices, there’s the 30 TDI model that uses a 2.0-litre engine and offers 116hp with ease.
That’s one-upped by the 35 TDI model with a 2.0-litre engine that produces 141hp.
This one is seriously responsive and fun to drive, but still easy enough for daily use.
Audi A3 Sportback plug-in hybrid
The Audi A3 Sportback is also available as a plug-in hybrid model, offering a taste of electric motoring without taking the full jump.
The 40 TFSI e pairs a 1.4-litre petrol engine with its electric motor to produce 210hp, while still being impressively efficient.
It’s the perfect way to save money on fuel while still enjoying a nippy drive.
There are different driving models to try out as well, including the economical default setting that aims to use electric power only, and the quick Dynamic mode for a speedy drive.
The best Audi A3 models
The Audi A3 Sportback is a great model that will suit a variety of motorists, thanks to its wide range of trims.
Take a look at our top picks for the perfect model:
The best Audi A3 Sportback for families
Audi A3 40 TFSI Sport – this model has all the bells and whistles you’ll need to comfortably navigate family life, while the engine is powerful enough to pull big loads without feeling sluggish.
The best Audi A3 Sportback for value
Audi A3 30 TFSI Technik – even the entry-level Technik trim has a luxury edge with the luxe Audi styling and kitted-out interior.
The engine set-up is reliable and easy to drive, making it suitable for most motorists.
The best Audi A3 Sportback for performance
Audi A3 40 TFSI e hybrid Sportback – the hybrid model of the A3 offers a whole lot of power, with a 1.4-litre engine paired with the electric motor. Expect 210hp for a nippy drive.
The best Audi A3 Sportback for space
If you need space in your car, all Audi A3 Sportback models offer a 380-litre boot. Avoid the hybrid models for this reason though, as the large batteries shrink the boot to a smaller 280-litres.
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Audi A3 body types explained: Sportback, Saloon and S3
Besides the Audi A3 Sportback, you can also choose from a Saloon body shape and the performance-dedicated S3 range.
The Audi A3 Saloon is a sleek and handsome car that has a larger 425-litre boot. It’s a great option If you prefer a more classic look over the sporty stylings of the suitably titled Sportback.
The Audi S3 range offers a performance-focused spin on these classic models, adding more power and finesse than the standard cars.
You can get up to 306hp in an S3 model, and you’ll get touches like a more aggressive suspension and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Used Audi A3 Sportback reliability
When it comes to reliability, the Audi A3 Sportback fares pretty well. It offers a high-quality build and luxury feel, with an impressive engine and gearbox.
Reliability surveys have placed the Audi A3 well, too. It regularly scores at a good level and receives positive driver reviews.
You’ll be able to rely on the Audi A3 when it comes to safety, as the range received a full five-star rating from Euro NCAP on its 2020 test.
Finance deals on used Audi A3 Sportback models
You can get an Audi A3 on Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) car finance or Hire Purchase (HP) if you want to spread the cost.
HP finance allows you to break the full cost of the car across monthly payments, while PCP has you pay the depreciation amount of the car every month with an optional ‘balloon payment’ at the end.
With PCP, you can opt not to pay the optional final payment and instead can return your A3.
If you plan to do this, you’ll need to keep the car in good condition and fix any damage that sits outside of fair wear and tear.
If not, you might have to pay damage charges.
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