Audi A3 (96-03) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The A3 was Audi's take on the Volkswagen Golf Mk3 and became the first hatchback from a premium manufacturer. It actually borrows most of its underpinnings from the Golf, including some excellent engines, but adds more stylish looks and a higher quality finish. When it was launched in 1996, prices were steep for what was essentially a three-door family hatchback, but thanks to the prestige badge it proved popular. Used prices are now lower, making it a good alternative to a used Golf or BMW 3-Series Compact. Family buyers are better off finding a five-door model - these were introduced in 1999. The A3 was finally replaced in 2003.
3.5 out of 5

Other Audi reviews

3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£14,645 - £24,825

Used price range:

£629 - £7,022

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Well built, pleasant to drive, still fashionable

Cramped rear seats

The A3 was Audi's take on the Volkswagen Golf Mk3 and became the first hatchback from a premium manufacturer. It actually borrows most of its underpinnings from the Golf, including some excellent engines, but adds more stylish looks and a higher quality finish. When it was launched in 1996, prices were steep for what was essentially a three-door family hatchback, but thanks to the prestige badge it proved popular. Used prices are now lower, making it a good alternative to a used Golf or BMW 3-Series Compact. Family buyers are better off finding a five-door model - these were introduced in 1999. The A3 was finally replaced in 2003.

For the review of the latest Audi A3 Hatchback click here

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3.5 out of 5

    "Like most Audi models there's a wide range of engines available from economical diesels to high..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "Smooth, refined and quiet - the A3 is everything you'd expect from a premium hatchback. It's not the..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    3 out of 5

    "The driver and front passenger will find few complaints with the A3. The driving position is spot on..."

  • Practicality

    3 out of 5

    "The A3 offers reasonable boot space, but if you want to carry luggage for four adults it probably..."

  • Equipment

    3.5 out of 5

    "All versions come with alloy wheels, ultrasonic anti-theft system, electric mirrors and adjustable..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3.5 out of 5

    "Despite the obvious Volkswagen switchgear, the A3 is an upmarket car and even the base models are..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    3 out of 5

    "While most of the engines are reasonably economical, insurance can be expensive, especially on the..."

  • Green credentials

    2.5 out of 5

    "With average emissions of 187g/km of CO2 the A3 is quite polluting for a family hatchback. Despite..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3.5 out of 5

    "With plenty of airbags and a strong chassis structure, the A3 scores well for a car launched in the..."

  • Reliability

    3.5 out of 5

    "The A3 is generally excellent if properly serviced. There were some well-documented problems with..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    0 out of 5

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "There are plenty of used A3s around and most are well looked after but they made popular company..."

  • Selling

    4.5 out of 5

    "There’s strong demand for well-serviced, clean cars. The A3 oozes quality, is pleasant to drive and..."

Gallery

  • Interior Audi A3 (96-03)
  • Exterior Audi A3 (96-03)
  • Exterior Audi A3 (96-03)
  • Exterior Audi A3 (96-03)

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Owners' reviews