Used Audi A3 for sale nearPreston

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,400
Average Price: Around £15,000

Audi A3 (2012-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
High-quality interior, practical five-door Sportback option	More expensive than mainstream rivals with similar abilities
Excellent fuel economy from diesel models	S line versions have a firm ride
RS3 offers serious performance credentials	Performance models are expensive to run

Quick Summary

The Audi A3 (2012-2019), known as the 8V generation, is a premium family car that blends style, quality, and practicality. Available in multiple body styles—three-door hatchback, five-door Sportback, saloon, and cabriolet—it offers something for everyone. The Sportback provides the most versatility with a 380-litre boot and improved rear-seat space. All models feature high-quality interiors with comprehensive equipment as standard, from air conditioning and Bluetooth to digital radio and colour screens across the range.

The A3 delivers a comfortable, composed driving experience with punchy engines and crisp handling, though it prioritises comfort over razor-sharp dynamics. Fuel economy is impressive, particularly with diesel models achieving up to 83mpg, whilst petrol options like the 1.0 TFSI offer over 60mpg. The S3 and RS3 variants provide enhanced performance for those seeking more excitement. Service costs are reasonable at Audi dealers, with fixed-price servicing available for cars over three years old. As a used car, the A3 represents an understated, classy choice that commands strong resale values thanks to the prestigious Audi badge.

Best for: Buyers seeking a premium family car with style and quality, those wanting excellent fuel economy (diesel models), and drivers interested in performance variants (S3/RS3).

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers prioritising value over badge prestige, those seeking the sharpest handling dynamics, or drivers wanting the lowest running costs compared to mainstream alternatives.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the A3 if: You want a premium family car with style and quality, seek excellent fuel economy from diesel models, or are interested in performance variants like the S3 or RS3.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise value over badge prestige, seek the sharpest handling dynamics, or require the lowest running costs compared to mainstream rivals.

Competitive Position: The Audi A3 (2012-2019) is a strong premium contender in the family car market, offering high-quality interiors, practicality, and impressive fuel economy. Whilst the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 matches it on ratings and value, the A3 distinguishes itself through superior design and the prestige of the Audi badge. The Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1 Series offer alternative premium options, though the A3 provides better overall value and user satisfaction. For buyers willing to pay a premium for quality and style, the A3 is an excellent choice that delivers on comfort, practicality, and refinement.

Read our full Audi A3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.