The original A3 was a bit of a pioneer as a classy compact family hatchback – it was much more accomplished than the smallest offerings from BMW and Mercedes, and much posher than the likes of the Ford Focus. The 2021 Audi A3, however, is a little less impressive – talented rivals in the form of the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class are every bit as good. That said, the Audi A3 is still a smart, classy proposition inside and out, is good to drive and offers impressive levels of safety equipment – although all that does come at a price.

Strengths:

Lots of luxury and safety kit
Very good to drive
Practical enough for a small family

Weaknesses:

Expensive for a car of this size
Not as well finished as some rivals
There's a firm edge to the ride

Is the 2021 Audi A3 better than the 2021 Mercedes A-Class?

The 2021 Mercedes A-Class delivers a bit more premium bling on the inside thanks to its smart circular air vents, flat twin-screen infotainment set-up and snazzy ambient lighting, but the Audi isn’t far behind, with hi-tech screens for both infotainment and the driver’s instrument panel, but it’s a bit less sci-fi than in the Mercedes.