AUDI A3 Hatchback 2003‑2013

I owned an Audi A3 Sportback for 5 years, it was by far my favourite in a long line of Audi models driven over the past two decades. The A3 seems to combine practicality with sporty driving appeal beautifully, although the ride in this particular model was very firm as the sports suspension is stiffened and lowered compared with standard models. The S line trim is marketed as a highlight of the Audi range but I found the standard equipment level disappointing, clearly a case of style over substance. The 2.0FSI petrol engine is nicely refined and offered fair consumption, averaging between 35-40Mpg over combined motorway and urban miles. Reliability and build quality of the A3 was generally as you would expect from a premium German manufacturer. However, the gearbox in the car failed at 50,000 miles, necessitating replacement at great expense. I would recommend an A3 to any drivers considering the model but would give very real consideration to an extended warranty on a car over 3 years old !

This is my second Audi in six years, my first being an A4, but I have to say my most recent purchase the A3 is truly the best yet. I knew that I wouldn't be disappointed and I have to say it was worth every penny. Yes I agree they aren't cheap to buy or own, but the rewards from owning and driving my 10 Reg model soon makes me forget about the two very minor negatives that I have mentioned. I just can't fault this car in anyway, the s-tronic gearbox is superb and very responsive.

The car is a good size with ample room inside and it also has a good sized boot. I was very lucky to find a S-Line model with xenon headlights, bose sound system and auto lights and wipers, with the later being a must as have had them on my previous five cars, and wouldn't be without them now, even though I know to some people it might only be a very minor point when looking for spec on a car. Will certainly stay with Audi now and look forward to many happy hours of motoring.

I would advise anyone thinking of owning an Audi to go for it as you won't be disappointed.

I love my Audi A3. This is my second one and it's a great drive, comfortable, economical too - I often get an average of over 40 MPG!! Sad to be moving on but will definately stick with Audi

This is my current car - I've been driving it for 2 years now. It's an S Line so looks good with the kit on.

Good points: reliable, honest, solid, nice interior in leather, 2 years free servicing if you buy from an Audi dealer.

Bad points: underpowered with a 1.6 engine - go for a 1.8 or higher. Not as economical as hoped doing about 34- 38 mpg combined.

Authorised Audi servicing can be a rip off - always ask them for a quote and ask them for the labour costs separately. Always ask for a discount as the hourly rate it extortionate. Know what you are authorising when they quote you on work or parts - phone around a few places and get quotes for the same job. It's best to get the work done with Audi as I've learnt the hard way with non-genuine brake pads but use your knowledge to get the price down.

Overall a great brand and a good solid car.

Purchased this 55 reg car in August 2009 so almost owned for 3yrs of its 6yr life. In all honesty, its a great car. A bit pricey to buy but depreciation is very good and therefore makes a very sound purchase as a used car. Plenty of space, economical (50mpg easily achieved), low cost road tax and very reliable. Its a bit bland to drive but Audi's are well known for looking good but being a little boring to drive. You do feel very safe though and the car is packed with safety features such as ESP, six airbags etc. The rear seats almost fold flat which means you can fit lots of junk in the back - very handy for trips away, to the tip etc. Mine has the BOSE music system which is brilliant and also the alacantra seats which feel really nice and comfy. All in all, a very decent car which looks better than most and is practical too.

Pretty practical considering its one of the smallest models Audi did outside of the TT. Boot was large, and fold down seats meant it could shift almost as much as an estate. Leg room in the back was really good for a relatively small car, a little cramped for 3 adults in the back but still do-able. 3dr did make access to the back a bit difficult too. Room up front was excellent for both driver and passenger. Not the greatest headroom but as I’m not that tall, it’s not really an issue!

Cabin was nice, quality fittings as you would expect from Audi.

Reliable to an extent. Had a replacement MAF, and also a new crank shaft sensor (this seems to be a common fault) as well as needing a new clutch. Audi servicing prices for these were massive! Luckily had a warranty (the only reason I took it to the main dealer rather than an indy)

MPG was ok and the performance was above average for the engine. The chunky steering wheel and small gear stick made it seem more of a sports car than it actually was!

Really liked the car, only downside was it’s just a little bit boring and EVERYONE seems to have one these days!

I have had my Audi for 8 years and am reluctantly selling it as its a 3 door and the arrival of 2 grandchildren has made me think practical and buy a 5 door, also to save my back!

I loved this car as soon as i test drove it. Although it was a bit more expensive than similar makes it was worth it. In the long term it was a good investment as Audis are know to hold their value and clock up many more miles than the average car without too much effort, and this has proved to be true for me. Also like the solid body . Always a comfort to know that if someone decided to come to close I have a solid framework to protect me.

It accomodates my lifestyle very well, its stylish and sporty and drives like a dream, nippy round town and easy to park. Also comfortable on long journeys. I regularly drive 200 miles to visit family without the need for a streatch break and still arrive feeling great.

Although the look is sporty it still accomodates the golf clubs and trolly without having to drop the seats which is a bonus from a security angle, and with seats down i can easily move items of furniture or do the occasional car boot sale to clear my clutter!

Ive already decided that once the children are old enough to climb into the back and fasten their safety belts on their own I will have another 3 door A3, might even consider the convertable as it still retains the drop seat facility so no problem with the golf clubs!

In my opinion the car looks good, the ride is very comfortable, it is an easy car to drive and it suits my lifestyle as a retired lady. I travel most of the time with my two small dogs who sit very happily in a hammock on the back seat.

I bought the car second hand in its first year and have had it for nearly 4 years. It has been very reliable, and tells me if anything needs to be done, essential for a technophobe lady. I have it serviced regularly and have only had to put oil in it on two occasions and replace the tyres. Both necessary considering the mileage I have done.

I am hoping to relace it in the very near future with the latest model. The car and the dealer have done very well for me.

No complaints.

My A3 is 7 years old now and it has never any mechanical issues. It's been solid and reliable, and I've always loved the way it looks and drives. Day to day this suits my lifestyle well, small enough to be easy to park around town and spacious enough to pack everything for weekends away. It's been very economical on long motorway journeys and is good and powerful for overtaking. It was more expensive than it's Golf equivalent but I personally prefer the Audi styling.

This car is fabulous to drive, although its quite thirsty around town, its definately not thirsty on long journeys, has good acceleration. Its a comfortable car too for long journeys, although the boot is not big (only being a 3 door) its adequate and you can put the back seats down if required.