The Audi A3 is the benchmark premium compact car in the UK. It's the car that proves you don't need to spend Golf money to get Golf-platform quality — with a nicer interior and a badge that genuinely holds its value.
Generations at a Glance
Mk3 A3 (8V, 2012–2020) — The One to Buy
This is the generation that delivers the best balance of quality, technology, and value. The interior is genuinely premium, the engines are modern and efficient, and there are enough on the market now to find a good example at a fair price.
Mk3.5 A3 facelift (2016–2020)
Updated headlights, revised infotainment, new driver assistance systems. If you can stretch to a post-2016 car, the extra tech is worth it.
Best Engines
1.5 TFSI (150ps) — petrol pick. Replaced the 1.4 TFSI in 2016 and is significantly better. Smooth, efficient, and punchy. This is the engine to target on the facelifted car.
2.0 TDI (150ps) — diesel pick. Excellent fuel economy on longer runs. Torquey and refined. Choose this if you cover 12,000+ miles a year.
Avoid: 1.4 TFSI with cylinder deactivation (ULEV) — the system that shuts off two cylinders at light loads caused issues on earlier cars including juddering and increased oil consumption.
Common Problems
- DSG gearbox judder — the 7-speed S-tronic (dry clutch) can judder at low speeds, particularly in traffic. Software updates help but the wet-clutch 6-speed is more dependable.
- Oil consumption on early 1.8/2.0 TFSI — Audi's direct-injection petrol engines from 2012–2015 are known to consume oil. Check the level on viewing and ask how often the owner tops it up.
- Carbon buildup on intake valves — a side effect of direct injection. An intake cleaning (walnut blasting) every 60,000 miles or so keeps it in check.
- Rear wheel bearing wear — more common than it should be on A3s. Listen for a droning noise from the rear at speed.
What to Pay
- A3 1.5 TFSI, 2018, 40k miles: £13,000–£17,000
- A3 2.0 TDI, 2016, 70k miles: £9,000–£13,000
- A3 1.4 TFSI, 2014, 60k miles: £7,000–£10,000
Find a used Audi A3 near you — browse all listings or search in London, Manchester, Edinburgh.