Can't quite make up your mind if you should opt for an Audi A3 Sportback, sedan, or an Audi A4? Let's find out how they differ so you can pick the perfect model.
The Audi A3: Updated for 2025
The Audi A3 is receiving a series of exciting updates for the year 2025, maintaining its reputation as a sleek and sporty compact car for sophisticated urban dwellers. With these enhancements, the A3 has never looked better. New models are set to be released in May 2025, and pricing has not yet been revealed.
Competitors (of the sedan) include: BMW 2 Series, Honda Civic sedan 1.5T RS
Competitors of the A3 Hatch include: Cars like the BMW 1 Series, Mini Cooper, Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatch
The current sedan is 4495 mm long, 1425 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2636 mm. (It's 1984 mm wide, including mirrors.) It offers a generous cargo area of 425 litres.
The existing A3 hatch has the same wheelbase length but is slightly shorter overall at 4343 mm, and the boot is smaller at 380 litres.
Related: Audi RS3 Sedan Review (2023)
Design upgrades
The 2025 A3, available in Sportback and Sedan forms, sports an updated hexagonal Singleframe grille at the front.
An angular air intake enhances this look, giving it an undeniably sporty appeal. The LED headlights have been refined, too, now featuring digital daytime running lights with customisable light signatures.
The Black Edition variant features darkened styling for those wanting to make a statement.
Interior enhancements
Inside the new A3, you’ll notice a comprehensive upgrade to complement its sporty exterior. The cabin exudes modern sophistication with a redesigned shifter, vents, and decorative fabrics. The ambient lighting system, available in 30 customisable colours, adds an elegant touch throughout the interior. Audi has embraced sustainability with new materials made from recycled polyester and microfibre Dinamica, creating a plush and eco-friendly interior.
Performance features
The A3 is powered by a 1.4-litre 35 TFSI turbocharged engine, delivering 110 kW and 250 Nm through an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The S line trim features 18-inch alloy wheels, a sporty steering wheel, and the SONOS 3D sound system.
The outgoing Audi A3 sedan in 40TFSI guise was still available when writing.
Download and view pricing and specs for the entire, current Audi A3 range here.
The Audi A4: What sets it apart?
While the upcoming A3 is compact and stylish, the existing Audi A4 offers more space and increased performance, serving as an upscale choice. It has only ever been available in sedan form.
Its wheelbase is 2820 mm, its total length is 4762 mm, and its width, including mirrors, is 2022 mm. It is 1428 mm in height, and its total length is 4762 mm.
The A4's boot is 460 litres and expandable to 965 litres. Its competitors include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series, and Lexus ES.
Space and comfort
The A4's larger size translates to a more spacious interior and boot, perfect for families or executives who want extra room to relax during long journeys. It has a more stately and upmarket appearance.
Performance and power
Favoured for its potent engines, the A4 starts with the 35TFSI engine, which has the same 110kW and 270Nm as the A3 models. A 2.0-litre TFSI engine with 140kW and 320 Nm is also available. The 0-100 km/h sprint is rated at 7.3 seconds for the 40TFSI and 8.9 seconds for the 35TFSI.
Luxury and technology
Across its various trims, the A4 offers luxurious interiors, advanced connectivity, and cutting-edge safety technologies, appealing to those who value comprehensive tech in their vehicle.
Download and view the full list of price, specs and features in the existing Audi A4 range here.
Pricing differentiation
The Audi A4 (from R952 600) is more expensive than the outgoing A3 (from R682 100), but its enhanced space, power, and premium features justify its higher price tag. It appeals to those willing to invest in extra comfort and performance.
Choosing the right Audi for you
Whether you decide on the Audi A3 or A4 will depend on your needs.
Audi A3: If you're after a car that effortlessly combines engaging driving dynamics with modern design and suits city living or small families, the A3 is an outstanding choice.
Audi A4: If you need additional space in the second row and in the boot, along with added status, the A4 is the perfect companion for executives or families who need comfort and performance.
Both cars showcase Audi's dedication to luxury and innovation, ensuring that you get a top-notch vehicle, whichever model you choose.
Audi's pricing is also very fair compared to Mercedes-Benz; the A200 hatch starts at a rather steep R826 02,4 while the C200 wears a price tag of R1 065 342 at the time of writing.
Buying used? Read: Audi RS Q3 Sportback Review (2021)
Did you know?
The Audi A5 will replace the A4 in July 2025, so if you're looking for a good deal, now is the time to start shopping around, as dealers will try to clear showroom floors.
