Buyer's Guide: Audi A3 (2003-on)

	It’s the most satisfying compact hatch you can own – you tell us the Audi A3 is a great all-round product. Driver Power 2008

The A3 is more than just an upmarket VW Golf. While the two share platforms, the Audi has defined the compact luxury sector with its great looks, classy cabin and that premium badge.

Build quality is first rate, and the option of the company’s quattro drive­train further adds to the A3’s appeal. Here’s how to find a good one.

History
The second-generation A3 arrived in May 2003, with a massive choice of engines and trim levels, which quickly grew even further. Within months there was a direct-injection 1.6 FSI petrol engine, and in July 2004 a 2.0T FSI turbo joined the range.

A more practical five-door A3 was launched at the same time, badged Sportback. It debuted the single-frame grille that also became standard on the three-door from June 2005.

In May 2006, a 170bhp version of the 2.0 TDI powerplant was added to the A3 range, while the following October a 1.8T FSI engine appeared, alongside the S3 hot hatch. A petrol 1.4T FSI arrived in May 2007, and in autumn 2007, the line-up was further bolstered by a 1.9-litre TDI producing only 119g/km of CO2.

What to look for
Emission levels have to be watched closely, as Audi has tweaked many of the engines over the A3’s lifespan, so a potential buy may not be as efficient as you expect. As a general rule, five-door, quattro and automatic models are thirstier and produce more CO2.

Several years ago, the turbocharged 1.8-litre unit was blighted by coil pack failures, and the problem resurfaced on 2005 2.0 FSI models, so check for misfiring. If they’re driven enthu­siast­ically, turbocharged petrol variants are also thirsty, so beware.

Alternatives
The Audi’s closest rival is the VW Golf, which also comes with a vast range of engines, trims and bodystyles. The Volkswagen is very similar to drive, but the only four-wheel-drive model you will be able to get is the thirsty V6 R32. While the rear-wheel-drive BMW 1-Series hatchback is a more expensive choice, it offers a great line-up of diesel engines.

If practicality is at the top of your list of priorities, however, look to the Mercedes B-Class compact MPV. It’s not only well put together and spacious, but also represents reasonable value for money, especially considering its prestige badge. The downside is that it’s the least stylish of this trio.