Overview

Ever since it arrived in 1996, the Audi A3 has been a front-runner in the premium family hatchback class, setting the benchmark of what a luxurious family compact should be with plenty of room, elegant looks and class-leading build quality.

Over the years, it’s been updated and remoulded to develop its outward character, the latest fourth-generation car having received a more youthful flavour to reinvent its image once again. For 2024, Audi has returned to the drawing board to give the fourth-generation A3 refresh, updating the front end as well as the interior, among other tweaks.

Audi hasn’t offered a three-door version of the A3 since the fourth-generation model was launched in 2020. A four-door saloon variant is also available, but if you’re in the market specifically for a hatchback, you’ll have to settle for five doors on the A3 or shop elsewhere.

Condensing the range in this way aligned the A3 line-up with its class rivals in the BMW 1 series and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class ranges, but they form just one front of competition for the A to fight off. As a family compact, it’s also up against bigger alternatives in the form of the Audi Q2 and Q3 from its own stable as well as other crossover SUVs and estate cars.

For 2024, Audi has widened and flattened the front grille, and updated the headlights for an arguably sleeker look. The headlights now house customisable daytime running lights, with four signature styles for owners to choose from.

As for engines, the selection on the A3 remains unchanged, though some variants for the facelift car are due later in the year. Only the 35 TFSI and the 35 TDI are currently on offer, though a 30 TFSI and a 45 TFSI e are expected later in the year. It’s the same story for the saloon version of the new A3 – the 35s are currently available though only a 30 TFSI will arrive later. Both the diesel and the petrol 35 engines produce 150hp with a 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds.

The Audi A3 is available in Technik, Sport and S line specification grades, as well as higher-spec Edition 1 and Vorsprung guises. Buyers can also choose from package upgrades to include items like driver assistance and upgraded stereo systems at a better price. If you want to know more about the 310hp S3, that’s covered in its own review.

This latest Audi couture is wrapped around familiar oily bits – in essence, it’s a Volkswagen Golf in a posher frock. You won’t mistake it for anything but an Audi, although the designers have tried to inject some more interest this time round, to help the A3 Sportback stand out from the crowd.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Audi A3 and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.