Should you buy a used Audi A3?

The Audi A3 has been around a while now, but it still looks good on the road when it’s been looked after well. It’s a small hatch that oozes class, especially in the right trim/colour combination.

With used prices almost identical to a similar spec Volkswagen Golf, you get a greater sense of prestige and genuinely better quality in some areas of tech and trim. What it concedes in ultimate driver involvement to the contemporary BMW 1 Series, it makes up for in year-round grip, confident handling and practicality. Ownership is easy with a huge online following for forums, spares and advice, and specialists all over the country understand VW and Audi cars well, so you should have no trouble finding a mechanic you can trust.

The S Line model is worth seeking out, as it comes with a sportier, high-spec trim providing the premium feel you want from an Audi. Look out for models with the technology package for kit that outclasses some entry-level new cars still.

What we like about the Audi A3 Mk3

Excellent infotainment, particularly on facelift cars fitted with the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display, the overall feeling of quality, secure handling and generally low running costs for routine maintenance.

What we don’t like

Neglected diesels, a tendency for the cars to be modified and run on a shoestring as they get older, the e-Tron’s economy if you don’t plug it in, some of the earlier small engines are not bulletproof, feels less special as Seat and Skoda versions of this platform also improved.