Audi A3 2024 review
Photo: Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Audi A3 has long been the default choice for British buyers who want premium-badged hatchback motoring without stepping up to executive-car money, and the facelifted 2024 model sharpens that appeal. The mid-life update to the fourth-generation A3 brings a bolder front bumper, a new grille design and detail tweaks inside, keeping it fresh against the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class.
The heart of the range is the 35 TFSI: a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with mild-hybrid assistance producing 150PS, paired with a smooth 7-speed S tronic automatic. It is a refined, flexible unit that suits the A3's grown-up character perfectly — quiet at a cruise, eager enough when pressed, and capable of nearly 48mpg on the official WLTP cycle. The chassis majors on composure rather than thrills, with a settled ride and hushed motorway manners that make long journeys effortless.
Inside, material quality remains a step ahead of the Volkswagen Golf it shares parts with, and the virtual cockpit digital dials come as standard. The 380-litre boot is usefully larger than a MINI's and matches the BMW 1 Series. Just beware the options list: Audi charges extra for much of the desirable tech, so a lightly optioned car can cost far more than the headline price suggests.
UK price from: £29,435
Specifications
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo petrol (mild hybrid) |
| Power | 150 PS (110 kW) |
| 0-60 mph | 8.1 seconds |
| Top speed | 141 mph |
| Fuel economy | 47.9 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 133 g/km |
| Boot space | 380 litres |
| Length | 4,343 mm |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 1.5-litre TFSI mild-hybrid petrol engine with 150PS (35 TFSI)
- 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission
- Audi virtual cockpit 12.3-inch digital instrument dials
- LED headlights with dynamic rear indicators
- Dual-zone electronic climate control
- Rear parking sensors
- Cruise control with adjustable speed limiter
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £59.99 | OEM quality; fits 8Y A3 35 TFSI, front axle |
| Oil filter | £12.99 | For 1.5 TFSI engines; service every 12 months |
| Cabin pollen filter | £18.99 | Activated carbon type; replace every 2 years |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £27.99 | Aero flat blades, 650mm/475mm |
| 12V battery | £139.99 | AGM 68Ah for mild-hybrid system |
| Alloy wheel 18in (single) | £249.99 | 5-arm S line style design |
Pros
- Premium cabin quality ahead of the Golf and 1 Series
- Refined and efficient mild-hybrid petrol engine
- Composed ride with hushed motorway manners
- Strong residual values on the UK used market
Cons
- Long options list pushes the price up quickly
- Rear legroom is tight behind tall drivers
- S tronic gearbox can hesitate at low speeds
- Infotainment menus take time to learn
