Audi A3 sedan review, road test

We started out by putting a lot of pressure on the A3’s small shoulders, but given its tricky position in our market, it’s something we just had to do. You see, a luxury hatchback is still largely seen as a ‘premium plaything’, a frivolous addition to a garage that already houses at least one bigger ‘proper’ luxury car. But being a sedan, the A3 has a lot more to prove; it is a more realistic migration point for someone moving up from a mainstream car to their first luxury car. Amazingly, however, it has acquitted itself with flying colours. Is it a real Audi? Yes it is, because even with the base model’s fabric upholstery and stifled equipment list, the quality levels, technology and engineering are on a level above mainstream cars. Though to be fair, we feel the true A3 experience starts at the second-tier ‘Premium’ trim. This is also why it shouldn’t be compared to similarly priced cars from mainstream brands like VW and Skoda – because the A3 feels far more premium and like a true luxury car. It’s also supremely fun to drive, while managing to ride comfortably too. The only real ‘non-luxury’ thing about it is the cramped back seat, especially when you consider how expensive the top trims are. Which brings us to the A4, whose starting price overlaps with the A3’s higher models. It’s a simple case of size versus spec – and if you’re mostly driving yourself and want all the bells and whistles, it has to be the A3. Audi has taken no shortcuts with its compact luxury sedan; it’s a car that has well and truly earned its four rings.