We compare the Audi A3 S, the BMW 218i Gran Coupé Sport, and Mercedes A200 AMG

The Audi A3 TFSI comes with an upscale interior, enjoyable handling, and superb fuel economy, bringing tough opposition for the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

Let’s see how these motoring giants compare against each other:

2021 Audi A3 35 TFSI Review

The fourth-generation model is available in five-door Sportback and four-door sedan options alongside high-performance S3 versions. Built on the previous VW MQB platform that also underpins the new eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf, Audi has modernised the A3 in every fashion without steering too far from the winning formula. It now has a bolder appearance with a bigger single-frame grille and noticeable air scoops.

Inside, we find a more modern interior design with trapezoidal air vents switching the prior circular ones, whereas the automatic gear lever has contracted to a little stub.

Making available for the first time are the Matrix LED headlights, dividing the light into tinier rays that switch on and off separately to brighten specific road areas, thus offering better night vision without dazzling other drivers.

Audi offers the 2021 A3 in three trim levels for South African customers - Standard, Advanced, and S Line. All the variants are powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine producing 110kW and 250 Nm of torque. The engine mates to an eight-speed Tiptronic auto gearbox, driving the front wheels. Audi says the A3 can hit 100 km/h from a standstill position in 8.2 seconds and deliver a 6.2l/100km fuel economy.

Another more powerful engine option for the S Line pairs with S Tronic transmission and generates 140kW and 320 Nm of torque.

All the A3 models come equipped with six airbags, ABS brakes, stability control, air conditioning, driving mode switch, rain sensor wipers, auto on/off lights, tyre pressure sensor, electric windows, electric mirrors, cloth seats, LED daytime running lights, infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB ports front, remote central locking, cruise control, Audi virtual cockpit digital instrument panel, and so on.

The base Standard Sportback model starts at R558,200, the Advanced goes for R583,200, while the range-topper demands at least R598,200. The Upgrade Package offers the essential gear for R20,000, the Sports Package stands at R18,800, and the most expensive Technology Package is priced at R33,500.

For the A3 Sedan, the price starts at R576,000 and goes as high as R616,000 for the S Line 35 TFSI Tiptronic. The S Line 40 TSFI S Tronic costs a whopping R656,000. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

All models come with a 5-year / 100,000km Warranty and Audi Freeway Maintenance Plan.

Looking for a new car? Check out our other reviews in the Car Reviews section of the MotorHappy blog.

Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.cars.co.za & www.carmag.co.za