The Audi A3 vs. the Audi A4: features put to the test
When comparing car models of the same brand, it can be difficult to choose one that is the right fit for you.
You will have to consider every aspect of each car, from the interior to the exterior and everything in between.
This can be a time-consuming process, especially if you have already found the perfect used Audi for sale but want to be absolutely certain that there is not a better option – finding the absolute perfect Audi A3 or A4 does not have to be difficult.
Here is a comparison of the most prominent features.
Audi A3 vs. Audi A4: what to look at when deciding
These stunning cars are a popular choice when considering a used Audi for sale, as both are entry-level luxury cars with relatively affordable price tags. The features that are most popularly compared are the following:
Exterior
Both of these vehicles are beautiful to behold, providing a luxurious exterior finish in whatever colour you choose. The A3 was offered as a hatchback, but the sedan is arguably more popular among buyers. There are many similarities between the two, as is common with Audis, but there are also some notable differences, such as the shorter length of the A3 compared to the longer body of the A4.
Interior
The interior of any used Audi for sale is vital to consider, as you will be spending a good amount of time inside your car. The A3 offers a “junior” luxury car feel, with rounded vents, popup infotainment screen and a three spoke steering wheel, while the A4 has a more mature and refined luxury interior. The A4 offers slick, modern interior finishes, such as rectangular air vents and plush black elements.
Mechanical specs
The Audi A4 offers only one engine option, namely a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Front wheel drive with an automatic transmission come standard, while all-wheel drive is offered with an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Audi A3, however, offers three engine options, with the Sedan and convertible options come standard with front-wheel drive with a 170-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, with the all-wheel drive option bumps it up the A4’s engine level.
If you are looking to save money, then the Sedan models offer efficient engines, with a 150-hp 2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine giving an excellent 13 km per litre in the city and 18 km per litre on the highway.
Technology and features
The two cars are on equal footing when it comes to technology and features, with both offering unique and advanced options. Both cars offer blind spot monitoring capabilities, “backup” or reverse camera, the Audi’s own interface with large centre screen, adaptive and effective cruise control, a navigation system, voice control ability and much more. If you’re a lover of technology, neither car will disappoint!
Driving experience
The driving experience of a used Audi, or in fact any used car, is an important aspect to look at when considering purchasing the vehicle. This is where both the A3 and A4 fall slightly flat in terms of experience, as the later models seem to focus more on comfort and luxury rather than performance with their S model counterparts providing a better driving experience.
While neither A model has sloppy handling or uncommunicative steering, the result is a stable driving experience without exceptionally fast acceleration or a sport-tuned suspension.
Safety
Both the Audi A3 and the A4 score high points for safety as both are built for a safe, comfortable and luxurious ride. Any used Audi for sale has likely undergone safety checks, so the features that will stand out are the forward-collision warning with brake prompting, an adaptive cruise control, an effective blind spot warning system and front and rear parking sensors. The A3 does offer additional features, however, such as a lane departure warning system and an automated parallel parking system.
Final verdict?
Overall, both models are well matched, with both providing different features to suit any needs. While the A4 is larger and offers arguably more space for those who prefer bigger cars, the A3 comes with the benefits of extra safety features and a more impressive engine, as well as more options to choose from in that particular area.
If you are on the market for a slick, large sedan, then the best option to choose is the Audi A4 as it provides the aesthetic that many look for in a luxury car; however, if you are interested in both safety and comfort, with looks being a secondary consideration, then the A3 is certainly a better choice. It has scored highly on crash-test ratings, and offers extra safety features, which is always a bonus. Personal preferences do always win out, however, and Audi fans will be spoiled for choice when deciding between the A3 and A4.