Used Audi A3 cars for sale

The Audi A3 began life in the mid-1990s and has since gone from strength-to-strength, largely dominating the subcompact executive car sector during its twenty-year lifespan. It’s best described as a premium hatchback, with an interior that’s highly spacious as well as stylish.

The first-generation A3 was manufactured between 1996 and 2003, but it’s best to avoid all but the best examples of these earlier cars. The second-generation car was introduced in 2004, before being replaced by the third-generation A3 in 2012. With smooth handling, a robust build and high-tech features, a used Audi A3 is a sensible choice for those seeking understated luxury at a reasonable price.

Versions of the Audi A3

The second-generation Audi A3 comes as a hatchback, saloon or cabriolet model, with the former two options available as a three-door or five-door and the latter choice available as a three-door.

The five-door Audi A3 variants are recognised for being highly spacious, with the Audi A3 Sportback boasting a maximum boot load capacity of 1,220 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This makes it an exceptional choice for families.

All Audi A3 models come in a variety of different colours, with some of the most popular options being white, red and grey.

Looking at the different trim levels, all of our second-hand Audi A3 cars have the typical features that you’d expect from a premium brand like Audi. Alloys wheels and heated wing mirrors, for example, are two of the luxuries that are included on the previous entry-level S specification.

Moving up the range, you’ll find the Sport trim level followed by the more expensive S-Line, which both offer extra interior kit and increasing amounts of sporty styling to the exterior. The S-Line cars boast the sleekest look, with sports suspension for a firmer ride.

At the top of the Audi A3 range is the Black Edition, which is based on the S-Line spec but with black styling cues. These cars are typically the most expensive on the Audi A3 market but offer the greatest value for money when compared with the purchase price.

Move beyond the ‘standard’ Audi A3 and you’ll find the S3 and RS3 models. These are the highest performance vehicles in the range, with large wheels and lots of kit as standard. These used Audi A3 cars are ideal if you’re looking for driving thrills but often have high insurance premiums and relatively low fuel economy.

Audi A3 fuel types and gearbox

Currently, the Audi A3 is available in both petrol and diesel versions. You can choose from the likes of the used 1.4 TFSI, 1.6 TDI or 2.0 TDI.

Whether you’re looking for an automatic or manual used Audi A3, we have a wide range of options for you to choose from.

Used Audi A3 finance

All of our Audi A3 used cars are available to purchase on finance, with an affordable monthly price that’s tailored to you. Not only do we look at your budget, but we also consider how you use your car, so that we can provide you with the best rate in conjunction with our credit providers.

Audi A3 awards

• What Car? Best Executive Car £25,000-£30,000 2019 for a current generation saloon
• Best Compact Premium Car @ Fleet News Awards 2017 for the current generation
• Best Family Car in the 2016 What Car? Car of the Year Awards
• World Car of the Year in 2014

Like the Audi A3? You may also like…

• Used Volkswagen Golf
• Used Mercedes-Benz A-Class
• Used BMW 1-Series

Audi A3 FAQs

What is the Audi A3’s boot size?

The Audi A3 is recognised for being a highly spacious car, with a boot cargo volume range of 285 to 425 litres.

The Audi A3 Sportback has the largest boot of any of the models, with 380 litres of space. Once the rear seats are folded flat, the boot has a maximum load capacity of 1,220 litres.

Should I buy an Audi A3 or A1?

An entry-level Audi A3 is the equivalent of a mid-range Audi A1, with the A3 offering more premium features. Both cars are regarded as high-specification hatchbacks, but the Audi A3 is larger than the A1 and features a bigger boot.

The Audi A3 better absorbs road bumps than the A1, largely thanks to the longer distance between its wheels. There are also more engine choices with the A3, including the economical yet powerful 2.0-litre diesel tank.

The Audi A1 is still an excellent choice for a well-rounded used car, but the Audi A3 is more suitable for those seeking additional space and more luxury features.

Should I buy an Audi A3 or A4?

The Audi A3 and A4 are both premium cars, but the A3 is slightly more compact in terms of body dimensions and boot space. In short – if you’re seeking a car that’s cheaper yet nimble, opt for the Audi A3. For extra power and size, then the Audi A4 is a strong contender.

Using the 2016 version as an example, the Audi A3 is considerably lighter than the A4, making it easier and quicker to manoeuvre. The A4 does boast additional features and extra space, but the Audi A3 gives you everything you need and more for a suitable price.

 Is the Audi A3 front-wheel drive?

The majority of Audi A3s are front-wheel drive, meaning it feels confident and sure-footed out on the road.

Front-wheel drive cars usually offer better fuel economy and traction in poor weather conditions, and the A3 is no different. You can expect great MPG from all models, as well as low emissions for a vehicle of its size.

If you’re looking for all-wheel drive ability, however, keep an eye out for Quattro models, which offer better grip and stability in a variety of driving situations.

Is the Audi A3 available on Motability?

 Our hassle-free Motability scheme is designed to offer eligible applicants a brand-new car on a monthly Mobility allowance. Motability isn’t offered on used Audi A3s, but we’d be more than happy to talk to you about the new Audi A3, which is available through the scheme.