Audi A3 vs. Audi Q3: which is better?
An Audi Q3 SUV or an Audi A3 hatchback? We compare the two and discuss the highlights of each model
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The Audi Q3 and Audi A3 are both impressive cars, but you’ll need to choose between a spacious SUV and a sleek hatchback or saloon to decide which model is best for you.
You might enjoy the ride height of the Q3 SUV or the sporty feel of the A3 hatchback and saloon models – but what else do they have to offer?
Learn more in our Audi A3 vs. Q3 review.
Styling
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The great thing about choosing between an Audi Q3 SUV and an A3 hatchback or saloon is that both are beautifully styled – you just need to decide which is your favourite.
The Q3 is an on-trend SUV with a chunky feel that’s still sophisticated. It has that classic Audi grille at the front, with a sleek body shape that suits the added ride height.
The A3 is just as attractive but sits lower to the floor in both hatchback and saloon body shapes. The A3 gets the menacing Audi grille as well, but the overall look is classic and well-balanced.
Neither model goes over the top with the styling, sticking to that chic and classic Audi look.
You can upgrade the styling of each model by choosing different trims, like the Black edition models that do just that – style the car with darker finishes, including black alloys.
Choosing a used Audi A3 or Q3 is a great way to save money on higher specs and added features. You can secure a kitted-out model at a lower price than when purchasing brand-new.
What are they like to drive?
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The Audi Q3 and the Audi A3 both feel great cruising around town centres and making progress on the motorway. They offer impressive grip and handling, with the A3 taking the crown as the nimblest option thanks to its low centre of gravity.
The Q3 feels great with the 2.0 TDI diesel engine that offers 205hp, and the comfortable suspension that comes with the SE trim irons out any bumps in the road. You’ll get a choice of both front-wheel- and four-wheel-drive models as well.
In the A3, you’ll find the drive to be punchier and maybe a bit more fun. You can choose an S3 model if you want something performance-based, but the 35 TFSI is still enough to nip off the line.
Both models can come with petrol, diesel and hybrid engines, and options for automatic or manual gearboxes, so there are plenty of options to explore.
Interior and technology
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The Q3 and A3 both have high-quality cabins that balance premium styling with practicality. Each is filled with luxe features and tech, but still feel hard-wearing for daily use.
As standard, newer models of the A3 get a 10.25-inch digital instrument set-up and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment unit.
You’ll get a large screen in the Q3 too, the same 10.1-inch size as standard that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
All the tech in both cars is simple and easy to use, and the cabin overall is comfortable with a classic Audi feel.
Sportier trims also get a flat-bottomed steering wheel and leather upholstery.
Bootspace and practicality
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It’s easy to think that the SUV option will be best for practicality all round, but don’t write off the A3.
In the A3 range, you can choose from the five-door Sportback or the four-door Saloon, with plenty of leg and headroom in each.
In the Sportback, you’ll get 380 litres of bootspace. The Saloon offers 425 litres, but both feel spacious enough for most families or the busy solo motorist.
The Q3 is particularly impressive for space. There’s a roomy 530-litre boot with the rear seats pushed all the way back, but it can be extended to 675 litres if you push the seats forward.
The cabin in the Q3 is spacious and comfortable, too. Both cars also offer ISOFIX car seat points for your younger passengers.
Read our in-depth car reviews:
Safety and reliability
The Q3 and A3 both received a full five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP on their most recent crash tests. The A3 received an 89% adult occupant rating and 81% for children, while the Q3 scored 95% for adults and 86% for children.
Overall, both models are rated highly for their onboard safety tech, which includes automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning system.
They score well on consumer reliability surveys too, with positive driver reviews. Overall, some motorists have had reservations with the reliability of Audi models, but this has only improved over the years.
You might find that repair costs for an Audi A3 or Q3 are pricier than budget models, as the parts used are premium quality. This does have its advantages - you're paying for high-quality repairs that will likely last longer.
Dimensions:
Audi A3
Length: 4495mm
Width: 1816mm
Height: 1425mm
Boot space: 380-litres or 425-litres
Audi Q3
Length: 4485mm
Width: 1856mm
Height: 1616mm
Boot space: 530 to 675-litres
Verdict: Audi A3 vs. Audi Q3: which should you buy?
Choosing between the Audi A3 and the Q3 isn’t the worst decision you’ll ever have to make, but it might be one of the hardest.
For something practical, comfortable and with plenty of space, you might decide that the Q3 is better-suited to you.
It’s certainly not a boring car, with a range of great engine choices, but it might be more suitable for busy families or over-packers.
If you like the Q3, you might also want to consider the BMW X1 or the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
The Audi A3 is a better choice if you’re not held up on pure practicality and want a car that feels fun. The body shapes are stunning, and the engines are a lot of fun, plus you still get a lot of space for when you need it.
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class, BMW 1 Series, and Volkswagen Golf are all worthy alternatives.