Audi A3 vs. A4: which is better?
Looking to buy an Audi A series? The A3 and A4 are both tempting models, but you might struggle to choose between them
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The Audi A3 and Audi A4 are saloon cars that double up as family transporters. If you need a car that is smart for the office, comfortable for commuting and practical for school pickup, these are two sensible buys.
Find out more in each model with our A3 vs. A4 review.
Styling
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We’re confident in saying that if you like the look of the Audi A3, you’ll like the Audi A4.
They’re both four-door saloons, which are conservatively smart and stylish without being showy.
There’s little change from the A3 to the newer A4, with the same sharp side profile, sloping saloon roof and blanked-off boot.
The back of the car is almost identical too, while the A4 is also available as a convertible.
The main difference between the A3 and A4 is the size – the A4 is bigger than the A3 and longer, which makes it look slightly different from the side.
If you like a more modern and sleeker look, the A4 is just that touch less chunky than the A3.
What are they like to drive?
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These two cars are similar in size and looks, but A3 and A4 drive differently.
Both cars are front-wheel drive and very refined, but the A4 is new under the bonnet and is lighter than the A3.
For everyday family driving and shorter work commutes then the A3 is smooth, quiet and easy to drive.
The A4, however, is closer to the A8 luxury saloon and comes with some inventive noise-cancelling features that make it a born motorway cruiser for long business trips.
It’s uber-refined and might be even more impressive in this area than the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class.
Both the A3 and A4 come with petrol and diesel engine options, but the A4, being the larger car, has more engine options.
Mpg figures vary with engine size, but the A4 has an Ultra diesel engine that manages 76.4mpg, compared to the A3’s 68.9mpg.
Fuel-economising functions on the A4 also make it the more natural fit if you need to get maximum miles on the motorway for the money.
Interior and technology
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Both cars have interiors that ooze subtle class. Interior design, however, is one area where the Audi A3 and A4 differ.
They have the same infotainment standard setup and features: a seven-inch screen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
If you’re in the hot seat, then you can also opt for 12.3-inch digital dials.
Other than that, the two interiors are quite different. The Audi A3 has always had a smart interior – it’s modern but easily navigable, with soft-touch materials that tend to be higher quality than many rival saloon cars.
The central focus of the dash is the two air vents and the infotainment screen.
The A4, on the other hand, is better suited to the driver who likes a bit more flair.
The A4 is sportier inside, with a dash that’s driver-facing, takes cues from the Audi TT, and is sleek and angular. It’s also bigger than the A3, so it’s more spacious for passengers.
For driving colleagues in a car that feels like an opulent office on wheels, then the A4 is likely the right car. For shared family and commuting driving, the A3 could be your perfect pick.
Bootspace and practicality
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If you’re choosing between the Audi A3 and Audi A4 on the premise of boot space and practicality, then it really comes down to what you’re going to be using your car for.
The A3 is smaller than the A4, so there’s generally less space for passengers and cargo.
The A3 is great for two upfront and children in the rear, teenagers or two smaller adults.
You get a 425-litre boot, which is bigger than the A3 Sportback hatchback. Need to go away for a week? You’ll have ample luggage space.
The A4 has a roomier cabin with more space upfront and space for two adults in the back too, even tall ones.
The A4 also has a slightly bigger boot, with 460 litres to stuff. Practicality-wise, the A4 is best suited for multiple people to journey together and work-related trips.
Both cars are spacious for their size, but if you need every inch of space possible, then the A4 wins.
Read our in-depth car reviews:
Safety and reliability
Audi makes very safe cars, and these two cars can make you feel confident driving colleagues, family and friends.
Both the A3 and A4 scored a full five stars in their most recent Euro NCAP crash tests.
Both the A3 and A4 come packed with safety assist features and rate well for child occupancy, so you should feel confident ferrying your kids around, no matter how young they are.
Newer cars are covered by a three-year warranty, or 60,000 miles.
It's worth noting that repair costs can be higher for premium cars are you're investing in high-quality parts. The advantage to this is that you'll likely have to make repairs less often as these parts are built to last.
Dimensions:
Audi A3
Length: 4495mm
Width: 1816mm
Height: 1425mm
Boot space: 425 litres
Audi A4
Length: 4762mm
Width: 1847mm
Height: 1428mm
Boot space: 460 litres
Verdict: Audi A3 vs. Audi A4: which should you buy?
If you’re still umming and ahhing over which of these Audis to buy, then our quick verdict should help.
If you’re after a well-designed, premium saloon that’s equally good at being a family car and a work car, then the A3 is always going to be a safe bet.
It’s the least expensive option, and if you get the PHEV then it’s a particularly cost-efficient smart buy.
The A4 is preferable if you need lots of passenger space and want to be driving either yourself or co-workers and other passengers in the most comfort and style possible.
It’s better for long motorway cruising, so if you’re frequently going to conferences, we think the A4 is your best option.