Overview of the Audi A3
In 1997, Audi draped a stylish body and smart interior over the fourth-generation Volkswagen Golf to create the luxury segment's first hatchback.
The A3's popularity prompted Audi to expand the line-up - first with a convertible variant for the second generation, followed by a sedan spin-off for the third generation.
Performance versions adopted Audi's usual S and RS badges.
AUDI A3 GENERATIONS
1997-2004
2005-2013
2013 on
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
Hybrid (e-Tron): 1.6 to 1.8 litres per 100km
1.6L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.2 to 4.3 litres per 100km
1.0L 4-cylinder turbo: 4.8 to 4.9 litres per 100km
1.4L 4-cylinder turbo: 4.9 to 5.2 litres per 100km
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo: 5.8 to 6.2 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Audi currently charges about $1680 for a Service Plan covering three years or 45,000km. Audi A3 parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO AUDI A3
BMW 1 Series
Lexus CT200h
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Volkswagen Golf
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: AUDI A3 (2013 ON)
Generally well made and with a quality feel, one of the first things to check on an Audi A3 is that all that electrical gear works properly and things like the sunroof open and shut smoothly. If not, there's often a good, and sometimes expensive, reason.
The biggest potential grief in this model A3 was the DSG transmission which has a bit of a track record of not going the distance.
The rule of thumb here states that any DSG car that hesitates when taking off, shudders during standing starts, experiences a loss of drive, flares its shifts or exhibits an odd or variable shift pattern, must be treated with the utmost suspicion.
Repairs often involve replacing the entire gearbox and it's not cheap thanks to its inherent complexity. Keep an eye on the oil level on the dipstick, too; it's normal for these engines to consume a little oil between services.
