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 out of 5

Running costs

While most of the engines are reasonably economical, insurance can be expensive, especially on the 1.8T and S3 models while servicing isn't cheap either. Audi spares can be pricey but there is a good range of independent Audi and German car specialists that will offer cheaper prices than franchise dealers.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,574 - £2,116 *

Diesel

£1,125 - £1,491 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

10,000 miles (minor); 20,000 miles (full)

Warranty

Mechanical 3 years, bodywork 12 years

Road tax (12 months)

£120.00 - £270.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
    132
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
    230
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

With average emissions of 187g/km of CO2 the A3 is quite polluting for a family hatchback. Despite the presence of diesel engines, which usually emit less CO2 than petrol units, the range is not particularly green. The diesel are the best eco-friendly choice, especially the 1.9-litre TDI with 90bhp which emits 132g/km CO2 and returns 53mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2