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, is still very good.
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, 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, but low-speed manoeuvres are aided by its tidy turning circle and optional parking sensors.
Euro NCAP Rating
The Audi A3 Hatchback (03-12) was tested by Euro NCAP in and received the following safety ratings:
Euro NCAP provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe. The safety ratings are determined from a series of vehicle tests, designed and carried out by Euro NCAP. These tests represent, in a simplified way, important real life accident scenarios that could result in injured or killed car occupants or other road users.