Audi A3 Cabriolet

The Audi A3 is a lovely premium hatch that deserves the plaudits. No, it’s not the most exciting thing in the universe, but it works on almost every level. A bit on the pricey side compared to similar VW offerings though.

  
 Comfort

    Lovely insulation makes the A3 a great motorway cruiser, but there’s not much space in the back for passengers. Also avoid the optional S-Line suspension and big wheels if you value your spine – they re-define the term ‘hard’.
    Rated 12 out of 20
   

Performance

    Four petrols and two diesels, including the 1.4-litre TFSI turbo-and-supercharged unit. Best compromises are the Golf GTI-engined (197bhp) 2.0-litre TFSI that hits 0-62mph in just over seven seconds or the higher-powered diesel models like the 2.0-litre TDI with 170bhp.
    Rated 14 out of 20
 

  
Cool
    Too boring to be really cool.
    Rated 12 out of 20
 
  Quality


    Excellent – Audi knows how to make cars feel nicely put together. Prod and push this cabin – you won’t be disappointed. Prod it again after 100,000 miles – ditto.
    Rated 15 out of 20
 
  Handling

    The Audi A3 is a lovely premium hatch that deserves the plaudits. No, it’s not the most exciting thing in the universe, but it works on almost every level. A bit on the pricey side compared to similar VW offerings though.
    Rated 12 out of 20
 
  Practicality

    If you need a big boot then don’t forget the ‘Sportback’ variant – kind of a hatch-and-a-half in size, or a mini estate car. A gimmicky niche? Maybe, but it kind of works. Otherwise this is a practical hatch with a 350-litre boot – seats fold for 1,000 litres of space, stowage is good.
    Rated 11 out of 20
  
Running costs

    If you’re penny pinching but want an Audi badge then you need the 1.6-litre diesel with 68.9mpg (allegedly) and 112g/km for cheap company car tax. Residual values are pretty darn good. It’s that Audi badge.
    Rated 16 out of 20