Mat’s Car of the Day: the Audi A3 is one of the UK’s best-selling used cars – and it’s more affordable than you think

The Audi A3 has all the ingredients of a great premium hatchback, with stylish looks, a classy interior and plenty of everyday comfort. But is this popular Audi as good as its reputation suggests? Here are three things I love about the A3, along with three things that might make you think twice before buying one.

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Three things I like about the Audi A3

1. It’s stylish inside and out

The A3 has a smart, premium look that really appeals to me. Its sharp exterior gives it plenty of road presence, while its interior feels classy and well put together. I particularly like the quality of materials, which give the cabin a more expensive feel.

2. A well-equipped and easy-to-use interior

There’s plenty of tech on-board, but what I appreciate most is that Audi hasn’t gone overboard with touchscreen. The digital displays are impressive, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, and having physical buttons for things like the climate controls in the older models makes everyday driving much easier.

3. Comfortable and refined to drive

Whether I’m navigating busy town streets or cruising along the motorway, the A3 sounds like a very easy car to live with. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps, the cabin stays quiet at speed and the light steering makes parking and manoeuvring straightforward.

Audi A3 used deals*

I’ve found a great deal on a five-year-old Audi A3 plug-in hybrid, offering the best of both electric and petrol power, with the potential for real savings. Audi claims up to 88 miles of electric range, or around 70-80 miles in the real world – enough to cover even a lengthy daily commute without using a drop of petrol.

This used example from 2021 comes with a 204hp 1.4-litre hybrid engine and 59,972 miles on the clock, all for £14,697. It also includes features such as a Bluetooth interface, cruise control, six passive loudspeakers, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display.

Three things that annoy me about the Audi A3

1. It’s not the most practical hatchback

For a car of this size, I wish there was a little more room in the back. The boot is a reasonable size, but rear passengers can feel a bit cramped, particularly if there are three people sitting across the back. Some cheaper alternatives, such as the Skoda Octavia, offer considerably more space.

2. You pay a premium for the Audi badge

There’s no denying the A3 feels like a premium car, but that comes at a price. I find it harder to justify when you consider that similarly sized alternatives can offer more space and equipment for less money. You’re partly paying for the prestige of the four rings on the front. Therefore, it’s a good thing that there’s plenty of used deals to take advantage of to save you money.

3. It could be more fun behind the wheel

Although the A3 is comfortable, refined and capable, it’s not the most exciting car to drive. On twisty country roads, I’d probably find the BMW 1 Series more entertaining, as the Audi prioritises comfort and everyday usability over driving excitement.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.