The Audi A3 has established itself as one of the most popular cars within the German manufacturer's lineup. Equipped with advanced technology, impressive powertrains and a premium finish, few rivals can match what it has to offer, but finding the perfect A3 for your lifestyle can be challenging if you are not already familiar with the model's nomenclature.

In this article, we will explore the A3's various trims, bodystyles and powertrains in more detail and explain what each variant is best suited to, ensuring you have all the knowledge to continue your buying journey with everything you need.

Audi A3 bodystyles explained

Sitting in the medium hatchback segment, this corner of the market is populated by household names such as the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, but unlike most of its rivals, the A3 has long offered a couple of bodystyles to ensure it can cater for a wider range of lifestyles.

Sportback

White Audi A3 Sportback Exterior Front Driving Along a Lakeside Road

Offering a well-rounded, familiar approach, the Sportback is essentially the hatchback variant of the A3 range. Available with either five or three doors, it may be a great match if you:

  • Want a premium offering: In typical Audi fashion, the A3 Sportback offers a raft of advanced, high-quality features, resulting in a overall package that few rivals can match.
  • Want an engaging driving experience: The A3 Sportback has been applauded for its dynamic, sporty feel while still maintaining a good level of comfort.
  • Want a more 'usable' boot: While the A3 Saloon technically has a larger boot space, the A3 Sportback's overall shape make it much more adept at carrying larger items.

Before you commit to the Sportback model, there are some elements you may want to consider. It may not be such a great match if you:

  • Do not want to blend in with the crowd: The A3 Sportback is generally more common than the Saloon, which means you will see them out and about more frequently. However, this popularity is for good reason and there are a number of options you can choose from to make it your own.
  • Do not want to stretch your budget: As one of the more premium options in the hatchback market, the A3 Sportback will be more expensive to buy and maintain compared to other budget-friendly alternatives.
  • Do not enjoy a dynamic feel: While still a comfortable car, the A3 Sportback leans more towards driver engagement than outright comfort, so there may be more suitable options if you are only focused on comfort alone.

Saloon

Red Audi A3 Saloon Exterior Front Driving Across a Bridge

Offering something seldom seen in this segment, the Saloon is a compact executive vehicle that is well-suited to regular daily trips as well as longer forrays. It may be a great match if you:

  • Want a smooth driving experience: Despite being smaller than most other saloons, the A3 still offers a silky smooth driving experience that you will struggle to find with its direct rivals.
  • Want a lot of technology: The A3 Saloon comes packed gadgets such as a virtual cockpits as standard and features one of the best-equipped interiors within this segment.
  • Want something more spacious: While the A3 Sportback offers a more 'usable' boot, the A3 Saloon provides more interior space and a larger 425-litre boot.

Before you commit to the Saloon model, there are some elements you may want to consider. It may not be such a great match if you:

  • Do not want limited choice: As one of the less popular A3 bodystyles, you may find that your options are more limited compared to the Sportback, particularly when buying used. However, buying a new A3 Saloon will still offer you a great level of customisation to ensure your car is the perfect fit.
  • Do not want a compact approach: While the A3 Saloon is rather practical for a compact saloon, you may want to look towards a larger executive car such as the Audi A5 or BMW 3 Series if you want even more space.
  • Do not want to stretch your budget: Much like its Sportback sibling, the A3 Saloon does come at a higher price point than other alternatives. However, few can match Audi's premium offering.

allstreet

Yellow Audi A3 allstreet Exterior Front Static

Announced in 2024, the A3 allstreet has been 'designed for all roads' and features distinct SUV-inspired styling that ensures it adds something a little different to this competitive segment. An allstreet model may be ideal if you:

  • Want ultimate versatility: Featuring increased ground clearance and a more robust interior, the allstreet is not afraid of tougher working conditions.
  • Want enhanced practicality: Compared to the Sportback and Saloon variants, allstreet A3 models come with the likes of roof bars to give you greater carrying capability.
  • Want an SUV for a Hatchback budget: Full-sized premium SUVs are typically rather expensive, but the A3 allstreet delivers SUV characteristics for a friendlier price.

Before you commit to the allstreet model, there are some elements you may want to consider. It may not be such a great match if you:

  • Do not want limited choice: Many will still be drawn to traditional A3 models, so your options may be more limited, particularly when buying used. However, buying a new A3 allstreet will still offer you a great level of customisation to ensure your car is the perfect fit.
  • Do not want compact SUV characteristics: Despite enhancing practicality and versatility compared to traditional A3 models, the A3 allstreet does not quite match 'proper' SUVs. If you need even more space, we recommend looking at alternatives such as the Audi Q3 or BMW X3.
  • Do not want the additional features: Many of the A3 allstreet's additional features are geared up towards diverse lifestyles and they come at an extra cost. If you are going to use the vehicle for traditional means (commuting, school run, etc.) you may find a traditional A3 model a perfect match.

Audi A3 trim levels explained

Audi A3 Interior Steering Wheel

When researching both the Audi A3 Sportback and Saloon, you will come across a variety of trim levels, each offering their own unique features. We have explained them each level in more detail below.

Please note, some trim levels have now been discontinued and are no longer available new.

  • Technik: Marking the entry-level to the A3 range, Technik variants offer fantastic value and include technology such as front and rear parking sensors and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Sport: Receiving additional extras compared to Technik models, Sport variants offer the likes of larger alloys and leather seats.
  • S Line: Arguably the most popular A3 trim, S Line variants offer a wide range of features and advanced technologies, as well as sportier look and feel.
  • S Line Competition: Similar to the standard S Line, but taking things up a notch, S Line Competition variants add the likes of black detailing and red brake callipers for a sharper look.
  • Black Edition: One of the most desirable trims available, Black Edition variants build on the S Line platform and adds a black styling package and matte, titanium-finish alloys.
  • S: Technically a standalone model, but you may see them defined as a trim while doing some research. S3 variants offer the same stylish looks as regular A3 models, but are a level up in terms of performance. Can also be paired with Black Edition and Vorsprung trims to enhance the car even further.
  • RS: Also technically a standalone model, RS 3 variants are the ultimate performance machine within the A3 lineup. Can also be paired with Black Edition and Vorsprung trims to enhance the car even further.
  • Vorsprung: Top-of-the-range. Vorsprung variants offer the highest level of technology and features within the A3 range, adding the likes of a head-up display, exclusive styling elements and premium leather seats.
  • Quattro: Technically not a trim level, but a moniker you will come across when browsing both new and used Audi A3 models. Cars marked with Quattro feature Audi's impressive all-wheel drive system, helping to enhance grip, performance and safety.

Audi A3 engines explained

Audi RS 3 Engine Bay

Used for a variety of lifestyles, the A3 is a pretty versatile car, and Audi has enhanced its adaptable nature by providing potential buyers with a number of powertrains to choose from. With such a wide array of options, it can get a little confusing when browsing the market for an A3 model, but we have highlighted some of the most popular options below.

Please note, some powertrains have now been discontinued and are no longer available new.

Petrol

Most Audi A3 buyers will opt for a petrol engine thanks to their dependable nature and great fuel economy. The two most common petrol engines are:

  • 1.5-litre 30 TFSI: Produces 115bhp, 0 to 62mph from 9.7 seconds and around 50mpg combined.
  • 1.5-litre 35 TFSI: Produces 150bhp, 0 to 62mph from 8.1 seconds and around 50mpg combined.

If you were to opt for a more performance-oriented S3 or RS 3 variant, you will find that they come with more potent powertrains.

  • S3: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine. Produces 296bhp, a 0 to 62mph time of 4.7 seconds and around 40mpg combined.
  • RS 3: 2.5-litre, five-cylinder, turbocharged engine. Produced 394bhp, a 0 to 62mph time of 3.8 seconds and around 30mpg.

Diesel

Those that regularly travel long distances will be pleased to know that Audi have also equipped some A3 variants with a diesel powertrain. The heavy majority of diesel A3 models will come with a:

  • 2.0-litre 35 TDI: Produces 150bhp, 0 to 62mph from 8.1 seconds and around 60mpg combined.

Older models also came with the option of either a 30 TDI or a 40 TDI; the former was the entry-level option, while the latter offered enhanced levels of performance.

Hybrid

As part of an update to the A3 range in 2021, Audi introduced a plug-in hybrid powertrain that appeals to those that want the cleanest means of driving. PHEV variants will likely come with:

  • 1.4-litre 40 TFSIe: Produces 204bhp, 0 to 62mph from 7.6 seconds and around 70mpg combined. Also offers an all-electric driving range of 37 miles.

The best Audi A3 models

Finding the right A3 model for your lifestyle can be quite a challenge, so we have highlighted some of the best options for differing uses.

Frequently asked questions

How reliable are Audi A3 models?

Audi has long been known as a manufacturer that produces reliable vehicles, and the A3 is no different. It tends to score well in reliability surveys, but we would recommend checking the service history of any car you consider to ensure it has been maintained in-line with the recommended plan.

What does Audi A3 S tronic mean?

S tronic stands for Audi's dual-clutch transmission. In other words, A3 models marked with S tronic come equipped with an automatic gearbox.

What does TFSI stand for?

TFSI stands for 'Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection' which is a gasoline (petrol) engine technology introduced and used by Audi. It was first brought to market in 2004, so you can rest assured knowing it is a tried and tested powertrain.

Which is the fastest Audi A3?

The fastest Audi A3 is the RS 3, which reaches a staggering top speed of 193mph and delivers a 0 to 62mph time of 3.6 seconds. S and RS models aside, the fastest regular A3 model is the PHEV variant, which offers a top speed of 140mph.

What does Quattro mean?

Quattro refers to Audi's all-wheel drive system - any A3 model blessed with the Quattro moniker will have power passed to all four wheels, which translates to better handling and grip, particularly in wet or damp conditions. However, it is worth noting that Quattro models are typically more expensive, so consider whether it is worth the extra cost before committing.

Which Audi A3 engine is best?

Which engine is best entirely relies on what kind of lifestyle you live. For example, the RS 3's 2.5-litre powertrain is appluaded for its level of performance and is ideal for driving enthusiasts, while a more common 1.5-litre 35 TFSI offers great dependability for regular day-to-day driving. Each and every Audi engine regularly scores well on reliability surveys, but we recommend checking the service history of any model you are considering to ensure it has been maintained in-line with manufacturer recommendations.

Find your next Audi A3 with Stratstone

The A3 is yet another sought after model offered as part of Audi's model lineup. With compact yet practical dimensions, as well as a wide variety of features and technology, it makes for an ideal option for those looking for a premium vehicle without breaking the bank.

At Stratstone, we have a wide range of excellent deals and offers on both the new and used Audi range. Please get in touch with your nearest Audi retailer and an associate will be happy to assist with your enquiry.

Interested in another model? We also stock cars from a wide range of the world's best-known automotive manufacturers, including BMW, MINI and Mercedes-Benz.