Audi A3 Sportback (2024) Review
The Audi A3 Sportback has long been a staple in the premium hatchback segment, and this week, I got my hands on the latest 2024 version. Having driven over 200,000 miles in previous A3 models—plus a stint with the A3 Saloon during my company car days—I’d say I’m fairly well acquainted with the A3 lineage. So, does the new A3 Sportback live up to its legacy? Let’s find out.
If you’re in the market for a premium hatchback in 2024, the Audi A3 Sportback should absolutely be on your shortlist. It offers a compelling blend of efficiency, tech, and driving enjoyment—a true masterclass in balance.
The Model Tested: 2024 Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI Black Edition
This version of the A3 Sportback is equipped with a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine, paired with Audi’s smooth S tronic automatic gearbox. It produces 150 brake horsepower and delivers an acceleration time of 8.1 seconds to 62 mph. For everyday use, the balance of performance and efficiency feels spot-on.
Priced at £41,000 fully loaded, the model I tested came with the optional District Green Metallic paint (£595), which may not be everyone’s cup of tea but adds a unique look. It rides on sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, adding to the Black Edition’s sportier and moodier aesthetic.
Design and Exterior
The Black Edition treatment gives the A3 a more aggressive look. All the chrome has been blacked out, and it sits with a purposeful stance on its large alloys. Despite the understated Audi styling, this A3 still turns heads—it’s subtle yet undeniably premium.
Interior: A Mix of Familiarity and Modern Tech
Once inside, the A3 Sportback feels both modern and familiar. Audi has stuck to a winning formula, and while the cabin isn’t a total revolution, it offers improvements where it counts.
Infotainment and Controls
The 10.1-inch infotainment screen remains intuitive, although the design is starting to look slightly dated compared to some rivals. A refresh of the icons and visuals wouldn’t go amiss. That said, the built-in satellite navigation remains one of the best in the business, thanks to Google Maps integration.
Happily, Audi has kept physical buttons for climate control and key functions like drive select and traction control. No endless menu diving here—everything is at your fingertips, exactly where it should be. A special mention goes to the virtual cockpit plus, which is as brilliant as ever and doesn’t need fixing because it’s not broken.
Interior Space and Comfort
In the rear, the A3 Sportback offers 380 litres of boot space with an impressively practical shape, allowing you to load larger items without hassle. Underfloor storage is a welcome touch, free from excess foam and plastic clutter, making it actually usable.
Rear passengers will find the cabin perfectly adequate for two adults, though a third occupant might struggle with the middle floor hump. Despite the panoramic sunroof (which isn’t quite as panoramic as the name suggests), the cabin can feel a bit dark due to the privacy glass and black headliner. However, there are USB-C ports and air vents to keep everyone comfortable.
The front cabin is where the A3 really shines. Material quality feels like a step up from previous generations, with soft-touch surfaces and tactile fabrics—particularly the cloth trim across the dashboard, which I couldn’t help but give a quick stroke in traffic (don’t judge me!).
The seats are fantastic, offering plenty of adjustment and support. Add the optional Tech Pack Pro, and you get luxury features like Sonos premium sound, Matrix LED headlights, a head-up display, and power front seats.
On the Road: A Masterclass in Balance
Where the 2024 Audi A3 Sportback truly excels is on the road. The suspension setup is nothing short of brilliant. Audi has nailed the balance between handling and comfort, which many competitors struggle to achieve.
Handling and Ride Comfort
The A3 is precise and confidence-inspiring in corners, with impressive grip for a front-wheel-drive car. Yet, it doesn’t compromise on comfort. Rough road surfaces are well-damped, meaning bumps and potholes aren’t sent directly to your spine. Compared to something like the BMW 1 Series—which can feel overly firm—the A3 strikes the perfect balance.
Engine and Gearbox
The 1.5 TFSI mild-hybrid engine is a gem. It offers enough punch for daily driving while maintaining impressive fuel economy—53 MPG in Sport trim, slightly less at 49.6 MPG in the Black Edition (likely due to the larger wheels).
The 7-speed S tronic gearbox is seamless, delivering smooth and efficient shifts. Engage Sport mode and grab the flappy paddles, and the A3 transforms into something genuinely fun to drive. It might not be the fastest car on the road, but it’s more than quick enough for most people’s needs.
Brakes
The brakes are effective but can feel slightly vague at times. It’s something you quickly adapt to, but it’s worth noting if you’re coming from a car with stronger brake feel.
Verdict: A Return to Form for Audi
The 2024 Audi A3 Sportback feels like a return to form for Audi. While some material choices still fall short of the gold standard set a decade ago, overall build quality and design are back where they should be.
The A3 combines premium comfort, sharp handling, and practical usability into one impressive package. It’s not without its quirks—the dated infotainment visuals and brake feel are minor niggles—but these don’t detract from what is otherwise an excellent car.
If you’re in the market for a premium hatchback in 2024, the Audi A3 Sportback should absolutely be on your shortlist. It offers a compelling blend of efficiency, tech, and driving enjoyment—a true masterclass in balance.
Pros:
Exceptional ride comfort and handling balance
Smooth and efficient 1.5 TFSI engine
Practical boot space with clever underfloor storage
Premium interior with intuitive controls
Cons:
Infotainment design feels a touch outdated
Brakes can feel slightly vague
Dark rear cabin with privacy glass
To find out the latest lease prices for an Audi A3, Click here.
