There’s a good amount of space for passengers and luggage. The A3’s minimum boot capacity of 350 litres is fairly average for a family hatchback of this era, though this does extend to around 1,100 (when you fold down the split-folding seats), plus the roomy rear seats make lengthy journeys a little more tolerable.

Parking isn’t too difficult, and low-speed manoeuvres are aided by its tidy turning circle and optional parking sensors.

Audi A3 safety levels are high and all models are packed with electronic safety gadgets to go with the strong body. Standard equipment includes front seatbelt pretensioners, as well as driver, passenger, side body, head and knee airbags while all models also have an alarm/immobiliser and remote central locking with deadlocks. As a result, the A3 was awarded a four-star Euro NCAP rating, which although not class-leading, was still very good.