A3 buyer’s guide
FROM £1,000 Solid, second-generation premium hatchback remains popular used
How classy Mk2 premium hatch can be yours from £2,500
THE A3 has been such a massive success for Audi that it would be hard to imagine it not existing. In creating the original A3 in 1996, Audi was the first car manufacturer to produce a premium small hatch; it set the template for the BMW 1 Series, the MINI and, arguably, the Mercedes A-class as well.
While the first A3 was a very desirable small car, it was the second edition that cemented Audi’s position in the class. This time there was a wider choice of engines and trim levels and, alongside the three and five-door versions, buyers could choose a convertible.
It may have been a VW Golf under the skin, but that didn’t stop the A3 from being seriously desirable; it still is now.
History
THE A3 Mk2 arrived in May 2003, with 1.6 FSI, 2.0 FSI, 3.2 V6, 1.9 TDI or 2.0 TDI 140 engines; in July 2004 a 2.0 TFSI (turbo petrol) appeared, along with the
five-door Sportback. From May 2006 a 2.0 TDI 170 was available, with the option of quattro four-wheel drive fitted.
In October 2006 a 1.8 TFSI appeared, alongside the quick S3. A 1.4 TFSI petrol engine followed in May 2007, five months before the ultra-frugal 1.9 TDIE.
The A3 Cabriolet arrived in spring 2008 as the range was facelifted, with more efficient engines and the option of a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox on some models. In July 2009 a 109g/km 1.6 TDI version appeared; six months later this was cut to 99g/km. A 1.2 TFSI launched in January 2010.
Which one?
THE 1.6 in non-fsi form is the least zesty of the various engines available, but even this is fine – it just lacks sparkle.
While the 3.2 V6 is very costly to run, it’s the turbocharged engines that you should aim for, whether petrol or diesel; the 2.0 TDI is especially punchy. All A3s come with alloy wheels, electric front
windows (and rear in the Sportback), electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, remote central locking, heightadjustable front seats, ESP, Isofix and three-point seatbelts for all occupants.
The SE adds cruise control, an autodip rear-view mirror, automatic lights and wipers, plus climate control. Topspec Sport models bring sportier trim, sports seats, stiffer suspension, an upgraded hi-fi and 17-inch alloys.
Alternatives
VOLKSWAGEN’S Golf is the A3’s closest rival, because the two are so closely related. They share the same engines, gearboxes, suspension and braking systems, and while the Golf’s cabin isn’t as upmarket, it’s still a great place to be.
The BMW 1 Series is perhaps the Audi’s key adversary, because it comes with some fine engines and gearboxes, is beautifully built and more fun to drive. The BMW is also expensive to buy, but with a lot of examples out there to
choose from, it’s definitely one to add to your premium hatchback shortlist.
A less obvious choice is the Mazda 3, which looks smart, is great to drive and comes very well equipped; all of this also applies to the Ford Focus, which lacks a premium badge but is still a great car.
Verdict
EVEN now, the A3 seems like a premium car. Compared with its cheaper rivals it feels satisfyingly well built, and has some excellent engines and gearboxes.
Running costs tend to be steep due to some high parts prices, and reliability isn’t always what you’d hope it to be. Finding a good independent specialist is the key; they can cut maintenance costs in half without cutting corners.
Popular with both fleets and private buyers, the A3 is widely available used. Be careful when buying, because abused examples aren’t uncommon. Prices also vary, but if you’re prepared to travel for the right car, you might bag a bargain.