Audi A3 (2008-) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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Audi is known for putting together some of the best interiors in the business, and the new A3 lives up to that reputation.

The improvements to the interior all work well - the white lettering on the dials works especially well.

We also like the chrome trims on the air vents and some of the switchgear, and they look particularly attractive if you opt for the aluminium rather than wood inlays on the doors and centre console.

The seats are comfortable and well supported, so long journeys shouldn't be stressful affairs.

There's room in the back for adults, especially in the five-door Sportback versions: it's not the most spacious car in the world, but it's certainly one of the best in the hatchback segment.

Bootspace is also among the best in its class, with 350 litres in the three-door and 370 litres in the Sportback - which puts it in the same ballpark as the Golf (350) and the Focus (385). When the split folding seats are lowered, the space increases to 1,080 litres (1,100 in the Sportback).

There are four trim levels: Standard, SE, Sport and S line. The specification for Standard cars includes 16" alloy wheels, single CD/radio, manual air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric windows, power steering, alarm and central locking.

SE models add different alloys, front fog lights, leather-covered four-spoke steering wheel, front centre armrest and a driver's information system.

Sport models add 17" alloys, sports suspension (lowered by 15mm), CD/radio with MP3 compatibility, Aux in socket, front sports seats, three-spoke steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.

The top-of-the-line S line is kitted out to the max with 18" alloys, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, leather-trimmed handbrake and gearknob, blackheadlining and a bodystyling kit that includes different front and rear bumper designs.