Audi A3 review - Reliability and safety

Reliability shouldn’t be an issue with the latest A3 model. It’s based on the Volkswagen Group’s ubiquitous MQB architecture and the TSI petrol engines are also known quantities.

The A3 finished in 55th place (out of 75 cars) in our 2021 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, with the Q2 and Q3 featuring a little higher up the list. Audi itself finished in a disappointing 23rd place out of 29 manufacturers, behind BMW in 21st and Mercedes in 13th spot.

Euro NCAP has awarded the new A3 a full five-star rating, with an 89% score for adult protection and 81% for child occupant safety.

All A3 versions include Audi’s ‘Pre Sense Front’ safety system which uses a radar-based warning to alert the driver to potential hazards. It also has the ability to initiate automatic emergency braking if required. The on-board safety kit adds a Collision Avoidance Assistant (which actively assists the driver in steering around an obstacle), a lane departure warning system, cruise control and rear parking sensors.

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Warranty

Audi’s standard warranty is three years and 60,000 miles, which is unlimited mileage for years one and two, with the 60,000-mile cap coming into effect in the third year. You can also upgrade to a four or five-year warranty for an extra fee.

Servicing

Audi offers two types of service schedule: fixed servicing should take place every 9,300 miles or annually, while the flexible option is up to 18,600 miles and every 2 years. 

Audi recommends a flexible schedule for those who drive longer distances, usually on motorways and main roads, while a fixed schedule is more suited to lower-mileage drivers who do more urban driving.