Audi A3 Saloon Buyer's Guide - Everything You Need to Know from Cost, Warranty, Reliability, Features, Models & Lots More

The brand-new Audi A3 is a compact luxury vehicle that really has gained a great reputation for giving you a stylish, performance car, that is packed full of technology all wrapped into a nice package.

In our Audi A3 Saloon review of this luxury car, we will help you understand the answer to every question you may have about this Saloon, giving you the best information about this and helping you determine if this is the best car for you before you decide to buy one.

Top Features of the Audi A3 Saloon

✅ The Audi A3's dimensions of 4,506 mm long x 1,816 mm wide x 1,433 mm high really does make it ideal for city driving and parking in tight spaces, even for a Saloon car.

✅ The A3 has a very sleek and modern design, with distinctive Audi styling that really does make it stand out on the road.

✅ The cabin features high-quality materials and a great internal layout design, which provides you with a premium feel for a car of its class

✅ It includes a lot of advanced safety features such as Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and multiple airbags, ensuring a high level of safety.

✅ The A3’s lightweight construction and well-tuned suspension also provide you with very agile and responsive handling - making it enjoyable and easy to drive, especially on twisty roads.

Table of Contents

• Why Choose the Audi A3?
• History
• What Models of the Audi A3 Saloon Are There?
• How Do The Audi A3 Saloon Models Differ From Each Other?
• Engines
• Interior
• Materials
• Technology
• Exterior
• Lighting
• Paint Options
• MMI System
• Connectivity
• Audio
• Safety Features
• Reliability
• Upholstery
• Alloys
• Towing Ability
• Boot Space
• New vs Used A3 Saloon
• Financing
• What Are The Dimensions of the Audi A3 Saloon?
• What is the Warranty Coverage for the Audi A3 Saloon?
• How Does the Audi A3 Saloon Compare to its Competitors?
• Who Are We?
• How Much Does A Audi A3 Saloon Cost?
• Audi A3 Saloon Final Thoughts

Why Choose the Audi A3?

When considering a compact luxury car, the Audi A3 really does stand out for several reasons.

Performance

Its performance is more than notable, with responsive handling and a range of powerful yet very efficient engine options with up to 61.4 MPG.

Design and Reputation

The design of the A3 is also both sleek and very modern. When especially combined with Audi’s reputation for reliability it also plays a crucial role, as the A3 consistently performs well in many reliability surveys and has a strong track record for being a very durable car as well.

History

The Audi A3 (or Type 8L) has been around for a very long time. It was first introduced in 1996 as a compact hatchback. However, over the years, it has evolved into various models, including the longer Saloon version this guide covers.

First Generation for the Saloon - 2013 - 2020

The first A3 Saloon was part of the third generation A3 (8V), which, for the first time, offered a new body style (the Saloon type) that combined the compactness of a hatchback with the larger size of a Saloon car.

It featured more modern design elements, more advanced technology, a range of more efficient engines, and a more premium and executive-level interior.

Facelift - 2016

Then, in 2016, the A3 Saloon received a new facelift and was updated to include new LED headlights, a revised grille, and more updated technology features than before - such as additional driver assistance systems, for instance.

Third Generation - 2020 - Present

The third and latest generation A3 saloon was introduced in 2020. It was released with a new, more modern-looking design wit sharper lines and a much sportier stance than prior models.

It also features the latest technology, including a fully digital cockpit, an advanced infotainment system, and enhanced safety features.

What Models of the Audi A3 Saloon Are There?

The Audi A3 Saloons models differ in a number of ways, from a large array of standard equipment to more unique features for each model, such as:

The Audi A3 Saloon comes with 3 main models, depending on the equipment level you want, which consist of:

• Audi Sport A3 Saloon
• Audi A3 Saloon TFSI Quattro 4Dr S Tronic
• Audi Sport 4Dr S Tronic A3 Saloon
• Audi A3 Saloon S Line
• Audi A3 Saloon Black Edition

How Do The Audi A3 Saloon Models Differ From Each Other?

The Audi A3 Saloon comes with 3 main models, depending on the equipment level you want, which consist of:

Audi A3 Saloon Sport

The Audi A3 Saloon Sport's key features include:

• 17" x 8.0J '5-V-spoke' design alloy wheels with 225/45 R17 tyres
• Front radiator grill in high gloss dark chrome
• Front side air inlets in grained matt black with silver frame
• Rear diffuser and grills in grained matt black with silver frame

Audi A3 S Line

The Audi A3 S Line's key features include:

• 18" x 8.0J '5-twin-spoke' design alloy wheels in graphite grey gloss turned finish with 225/40 R18 tyres
• Body coloured door mirrors
• Aluminium window trims
• Heat-insulating windscreen with acoustic glass

Audi A3 Black Edition

The Audi A3 Black Edition's key features include:

• 19" x 8.0J '5-arm-Y structure' design alloy wheels in matt grey gloss turned finish with 235/35 R19 tyres
• Front radiator grill in high gloss dark chrome
• Front and rear side air inlets in grained matt black with dark liquid chrome frame
• Side S line emblems on front wings

Engines

The Audi A3 Saloon comes with a variety of engine options to suit the power and performance that you want when you need it.

So, whatever fuel type you are looking for (petrol engine, hybrid engine, or diesel engine), there is an engine or manual that meets your needs really well. If you are also considering electric cars, then the A3 Saloon hybrid engine options may be exactly what you need.

These can consist of:

Automatic Gearbox / Manual Gearbox

Interior Design

When you step inside, one of the first things you will notice is that the Audi A3 Saloon is designed with your and your passengers' comfort in mind. It provides spacious seating for up to five passengers.

Front Seats

The front seats are also very ergonomically designed to offer you and your front passenger excellent support - making long journeys a lot more comfortable - on higher trims; these can also come in a more sports seat style.

For instance, they come with a range of adjustments, including seat height and lumbar support, so you can find the perfect driving position for your individual body type.

Rear Seats

The rear seats provide you with plenty of legroom and headroom, making it a very comfortable space for adult passengers as well as children - making it ideal as a family car.

The rear seats can also be folded down to increase the boot space from 425 litres, with the rear seats folded down to 880 litres, making it much easier to transport more oversized items when necessary.

Materials

When it comes to Audi, Audi is more than known for its use of high-quality materials on every one of its models, and the A3 Saloon is no exception.

The cabin, for instance, is packed full of premium materials, including soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and brushed aluminium accents.

The seats can also come in a range of finishes, from standard cloth to more luxurious leather, allowing you to customise the interior of the car to your exact taste and style.

The attention to detail is even more evident the more you look throughout the cabin, with well-crafted parts that really do add to its luxury feel—and this extends from the base model up to the higher-level trims in the Black Edition.

Technology

When it comes to technology, the Audi A3 Saloon is well equipped with a host of advanced assistance features that enhance your driving experience.

For instance, especially with the Technology Pack Pro, you can get:

• High-resolution touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Audi Virtual Cockpit (optional)
• Advanced driver assistance systems
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• LED headlights and taillights
• Keyless entry and start
• Wireless charging pad (optional)
• Head-up display
• Reversing camera
• Lane Change Assist

MMI (Multi Media Interface) Infotainment System

The centrepiece of the interior, though, is clearly the MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system, which includes a high-resolution touchscreen display.

This system makes it easy to access the built-in navigation system and audio controls, as well as connect your phone and use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you always connected.

Audi Virtual Cockpit

The Audi Virtual Cockpit is also available on higher trims, which replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a more customisable digital display, allowing you to choose what you want to see directly in front of you.

In Car Features

To make your life even more accessible, the A3 Saloon includes many other features, such as wireless charging and multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously. It also has a 3D premium sound system that really delivers exceptional audio quality, along with ambient lighting that allows you to customise your cabin to create a truly relaxing atmosphere, especially during your nighttime drives.

Steering Wheel

The Audi A3 Saloon's steering wheel is also well designed as it is a multifunctional steering wheel that can come wrapped, giving you a very luxurious feel to the touch.

It features intuitive controls for the audio, navigation, and cruise control, for instance, which really helps when you are driving, as most buttons are within fingertip reach.

Climate Control

The Audi A3 Saloon also comes with an advanced climate control system that ensures you get a comfortable Audi drive in any weather with the excellent and quick air conditioning system. For instance, you can easily set your preferred temperature, and the system will then automatically adjust to keep it just right for you.

It also features dual-zone settings, so both driver and passenger can enjoy individual comfort.

Exterior Styling

When it comes to the Audi A3 Saloon's exterior design, it is very modern and sleek and really does turn heads.

Its aerodynamic shape not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves your fuel efficiency and driving handling, as well as being functional.

At the front, you have a distinctive front grille, sharp lines, and a sporty silhouette, all of which give the A3 Saloon a very dynamic presence, especially when you are on the road.

Additional crafted details, such as chrome accents and sculpted side panels, further contribute to its premium and refined look, which really sets it apart from other saloons in its class.

Lighting

Lighting is also a clear element of the Audi A3 Saloon's exterior design. You will notice this when you see it, as the car comes equipped with advanced LED headlights that provide you with excellent visibility and a very distinct look simultaneously.

For instance, the dynamic indicators and LED Daytime Running Lights not only enhance your safety but also add a touch of good-looking design.

Rear Lights

The LED rear lights at the rear ensure that the A3 Saloon is easily visible to other drivers on the road, day and night.

Optional Matrix LED Headlights

The optional Matrix LED headlights also offer even more adaptive lighting that adjusts to different driving conditions, providing perfect lighting while reducing the glare from your lights to oncoming traffic.

Paint Finishes

When it comes to paint options, the Audi A3 Saloon offers you a variety of paint options, allowing you to customise your car to reflect your exact personal style.

So, whether you prefer classic shades, pearl effect, metallic, or bolder, standout colours, there really is a paint option to suit your exact taste.

Some of these are:

• Arkona White
• Ascari Blue
• Python Yellow
• District Green
• Glacier White
• Mythos Black
• Navarra Blue
• Progressive Red
• Daytona Grey

MMI Navigation Plus System

The Audi A3 Saloon is also equipped with a state-of-the-art MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, which is designed to provide you with a very responsive user experience for your infotainment system.

This provides you with a high-resolution touchscreen that displays very crisp visuals with a very responsive touch control - making it easy to navigate to your car settings.

This MMI system also integrates really well with the car's sat nav, entertainment, and vehicle settings, all into one central hub that gives you all the information and controls you need right at your fingertips.

Connectivity

Staying connected on the go is also very effortless with the Audi A3 Saloon's connectivity features, as the car supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to mirror your phone's interface on the MMI display directly in the car itself, along with Audi Connect Navigation, with memory function as well.

This then allows you to access your favourite apps, make hands-free calls, and even send messages from your voice, all without taking your eyes off the road.

Wireless Charging

Additionally, the A3 Saloon is also capable of wireless charging. Also, it comes with multiple USB ports, ensuring that your and your passenger's devices can always be charged and ready to use as well.

Audio

For your audio experience, the Audi A3 Saloon gives you premium-level audio options, with the standard sound system delivering clear and balanced audio, which is more than perfect for everyday listening.

For those of you who prefer a more premium audit experience, the optional Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System really does give you a very immersive sound quality with its advanced speakers, bass, and general audio technology.

Safety Features

When we look at the car's safety features, it comes packed full of them, as you would expect, such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Parking System Plus with Rearview Camera
• 360-Degree Camera System
• Pre Sense Front
• Pre Sense Rear
• Side Assist
• High-Beam Assist
• Driver Attention Monitoring
• Exit Warning System
• Emergency Assist
• Turn Assist
• Intersection Assist
• Adaptive Air Suspension
• Hill Descent Control
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounting
• Head airbags
• Speed limiter

Airbags

The Audi A3 Saloon is equipped with a very comprehensive airbag system designed to protect all of you and your passengers in the event of a collision.

The safety system, for instance, includes front airbags for the driver and passenger, side airbags integrated into the front seats, and curtain airbags that cover the side windows as well.

Consequently, all these airbags work together to give you excellent all-around protection, reducing the risk of injury in various types of accidents.

Driver Assistance Features

In addition to traditional safety features such as ABS, the Saloon comes packed full of a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), from audible sensors to active protective systems.

Crash Test Ratings

Its crash test ratings show that the Audi A3 Saloon has been heavily tested by leading safety organisations. Consequently, it has received very high marks for its crashworthiness.

For instance, in the Euro NCAP tests, the A3 Saloon has achieved a five-star rating - which reflects its excellent performance in protecting you and your occupants during frontal, side, and rear impacts.

This is in part due to the strong construction of the car's body, which, combined with its advanced safety features, all work together to ensure that it gives you peace of mind. At the same time, you are on the road at all times.

Reliability

The Audi A3 Saloon is well known for its exceptional reliability. Consequently, you can expect a long lifespan with minimal issues, especially when you factor in that a new A1 Saloon comes with long warranties as well.

For instance, some of the awards it has won, which factor in reliability, consist of:

• What Car? Car of the Year
• Top Gear Car of the Year
• Auto Express Best Compact Executive Car
• JD Power Dependability Award
• Euro NCAP Best in Class
• Red Dot Design Award
• Green Car Journal’s Green Car of the Year
• Auto Trader New Car Award
• Carbuyer Best Small Luxury Car
• Parkers Best Small Family Car
• Autocar Game Changer Award
• UK Car of the Year Best Small Hatch

Upholstery

The A3 Saloon also comes with a range of premium upholstery options to allow you to drive in comfort as well as style.

• Standard Cloth Upholstery
• Leather/Alcantara Combination
• Full Milano Leather
• Fine Nappa Leather
• Perforated Leather with Diamond Stitching
• Sport Seats with Embossed Logo
• Heated Front Seats
• Electric Lumbar Support
• Contrast Stitching Options

Alloys

The Audi A3 Saloon is also equipped with a selection of very stylish alloy wheels designed to complement its sleek exterior.

For instance, you can choose from:

• 17" x 8.0J '5-V-spoke' design alloy wheels with 225/45 R17 tyres
• 18" x 8.0J '5-twin-spoke' design alloy wheels in graphite grey gloss turned finish with 225/40 tyres
• 19" x 8.0J '5-arm-Y structure' design alloy wheels in matt grey gloss turned finish with 235/35 tyres
• 19" x 8.0J '5-arm trapezoid' design alloy wheels with 235/35 tyres
• 20" x 8.5J '10-spoke rotor' design alloy wheels with 245/30 tyres
• Exclusive Alloy Wheel Designs for S line and Black Edition
• Optional Diamond-Cut Finish

Towing Ability

When we look at its towing ability, the Audi A3 Saloon offers you efficient towing capabilities - making it very suitable for those who need to tow light loads especially.

For instance, regarding its towing ability, the Saloon has the following stats for you:

• Maximum towing capacity: 1,600 kg (braked trailer)
• Maximum towing capacity: 700 kg (unbraked trailer)
• Optional tow bar with electric swivelling function
• Trailer stability assist to ensure safe towing
• Compatible with various trailer types

Boot Space

The Audi A3 Saloon also offers you plenty of boot space, making it a convenient choice for everyday use such as:

• Total boot capacity: 425 litres
• Folding rear seats to increase storage space
• Flat loading floor for easy access
• Optional split-folding rear seats for added flexibility
• Boot light for better visibility

New vs Used A3 Saloon

If you are deciding if you would instead buy a new Audi A3 saloon or a used Audi A3 Saloon, this section is for you as it gives you the ins and outs of both of these options for you.

Pros and Cons of Buying Used

When deciding between a new or used Audi A3 Saloon, we know this is a complex question, as you have to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

For instance, buying a new A3 Saloon offers you the latest features, a full warranty, and the assurance that the vehicle has no previous wear and tear. However, new cars typically come with a higher price tag, and not everybody has the budget to buy new ones - that is where used cars can come in to fill the gap.

Certified Pre-Owned Options

So a good choice when looking for used cars is to buy an Approved used Audi or Audi’s Certified Pre-Owned car, as these can offer you a great middle-ground for those considering a used A3 Saloon.

For instance, these high-quality used cars undergo a heavy inspection to meet very high standards of quality and performance to make sure you get a car that will last you for years to come.

This is due to them coming with the following benefits to you.

• Comprehensive multi-point inspection
• Extended warranty coverage
• 24/7 roadside assistance
• Vehicle history report
• Exchange policy within a specified period

Financing

If you are wondering, I want a new Audi A3 Saloon, but I don't want to buy it outright; what Audi finance options are available to me, then this section of the buyer's guide is perfect for you.

For instance, your Audi A3 Saloon can be made easy with various monthly payment options from car leasing deals for an Audi to finance offers, hire purchase, contract hire and more financial services - depending on the payment terms to fit your budget.

What Are The Dimensions of the Audi A3 Saloon?

When it comes to dimensions for the A3 Saloon, you have the following:

What is the Warranty Coverage for the Audi A3 Saloon?

The Audi A3 Saloon comes with Audi's standard warranty package, which provides you with comprehensive coverage.

This typically includes a 3-year or 60,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first.

Furthermore, you can also buy new and get a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and 3 years of roadside assistance.

How Does the Audi A3 Saloon Compare to its Competitors?

When we look at competitors' cars, the Audi A3 Saloon really stands out in its class, with a perfect combination of luxury, performance, and technology all wrapped up into one.

Compared to competitors like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, an Alfa Romeo Giulia, Range Rover Evoque, to an Audi A3 Cabriolet, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the A3 Saloon really does offer you a more refined interior, advanced infotainment systems, and a reputation for reliability overall.

Its size also makes it suitable as a good city car while still providing you with more than ample interior space and a great boot capacity as well.

Other Designs of the A3

The Audi A3 is not only available in a Saloon model; you can, for instance, get it in the following types:

• Audi A3 Hatchback / Sportback
• Audi A3 Sportback TFSI Sport 4Dr E
• Audi S3 Sportback
• Audi S3 Saloon

How Much Does A Audi A3 Saloon Cost?

Be it that you are looking for private or purpose or for company car reasons, or just want to know what the starting price is, you can find out the latest price for a brand-new Audi A3 please see our dedicated pricing page for the most up-to-date information.

Who Are We?

Here at Sinclair Audi UK, we are a trusted and official Audi United Kingdom supplier with dealerships all over South Wales in the UK.

At Sinclair Audi, we are dedicated to providing you with not only top-quality Audi vehicles and exceptional customer service but also our knowledgeable and experienced Audi-trained team, which is here to help you find the perfect car. Whether you're interested in a new or used Audi or have a vehicle you would like to part exchange, we would love to hear from you.

We are also authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a Credit Broker and not a direct Lender if you want to take our financing for a new car deal or a used car through us.

Audi Car Reviews

If you like this car review and want to check out some of our other buyer guides on the Audi range of cars, a sample of some of our recent ones includes:

• Audi TT Buyer's Guide
• Audi Q4 Buyer's Gude
• Audi Q8 Buyer's Guide
• Audi Car Warning Lights - Find out what they mean & how to fix them
• Audi Q5's buyer's guide
• Audi Q3 Sportback Buyer's Guide
• How Does Audi Motability Work?
• How Many Seats Does The Audi Q8 Have?
• Audi A1 Car Review and Buyers Guide

Audi A3 Saloon Final Thoughts

The Audi A3 Saloon really is a standout choice in the compact luxury Saloon segment, as it offers you that perfect blend of style and performance, with some of the most state-of-the-art technology thrown in as well.

So, whether you prioritise a sleek design, a comfortable and high-quality interior, cutting-edge safety features, or a centre console that is ideally located with all the features you could want conveniently placed, the A3 Saloon really does deliver on all fronts.

Then, when combined with various trim levels and engine options, there really is an A3 Saloon to suit you.

Finally, with its reputation for reliability, combined with the peace of mind provided by Audi's warranty and certified pre-owned programs, it is a great all-around car for every driver.

Test Drive

So if you like what you have read, why not take the Saloon out for a test drive at one of our local Audi dealerships near you, and experience this car firsthand today.