10 Audi A3 Competitors to Consider

2018 Audi A3 Sedan ・ Photo by Audi

Before getting into these 10 Audi A3 competitors to consider, let’s ask the obvious question: why not an A3? It’s a fantastic subcompact sedan or cabriolet that starts at $32,925 and packs 186 horsepower, or 220 hp with all-wheel drive in the mix. There’s also a much warmer S3 sedan version. The regular A3, however, works well as a small pocket of luxury, making the grind of the commute more bearable without spending crazy money.

There is one big answer to the question above. The A3 is nearing the end of this generation, with a new redesign coming either as a 2019 or 2020 model. For those who can’t wait, or just want to explore a few other avenues, here’s our list.

2019 Acura ILX

Even though we’re talking mainly about the 2018 model year of the Audi A3, the 2019 Acura ILX already has broken cover. A redesign has taken place, so its looks have a little more impact than before (like the larger TLX sedan). With a mere 201 hp from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, it doesn’t have much in the way of performance credentials, but that’s somewhat beside the point.

The overall quality, agreeable driving experience, equipment-to-price ratio, fuel consumption of 35 mpg on the highway, cost to own over five years, and strong resale values all work in favor of the ILX. Buyers overlook and/or underestimate this premium small sedan at their peril.

Photo by Acura

2019 BMW 2 Series

There’s no four-door version of the 2 Series, but this is BMW’s entry-level car and too good to ignore. In any case, someone looking to buy an A3 probably doesn’t anticipate accommodating rear passengers on a regular basis.

The 2 Series generally is more expensive than the A3, but its least-powerful engine still enjoys 248 hp. There’s something about BMW engines, the smooth-yet-forceful way they deliver power, that wins the hearts of enthusiasts everywhere. From a handling standpoint, any potential buyer living within driving distance of some interesting roads will want to give this car extra consideration. The other virtue of the 2 Series is that it offers a convertible version, one of the few direct competitors for the A3 Cabriolet.

Photo by BMW

2019 Genesis G70

With the Genesis G70, you get an Audi A4-sized car for A3 money, and an extremely well-equipped and spacious premium compact sedan into the bargain.

If reaction to the larger G80 and G90 cars has been tempered (the amounts of standard features are wonderful, but neither car is totally convincing as a luxury vehicle), the G70 is on another level, representing another step in the evolution of the Genesis marque. Buyers also should take into account the excellent warranty and other services that all contribute to the wider premium experience. The base engine makes a healthy 252 hp. And here’s an indication of how bullish Genesis feels about the G70’s enthusiast appeal — the rear-drive version is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Photo by Genesis

2018 Infiniti QX30

If we’re looking purely at entry-level premium vehicles, this is the least-expensive offering from Infiniti. It might be argued that the QX30 is a crossover, since it’s based on the same platform as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. But both models seem to be more like hatchbacks with an ever-so-slightly raised ride height.

This body does, however, offer greater versatility and the ability to carry more cargo. The higher-than-standard ride height also means less strain on a parent’s back when dealing with kids and safety seats. And it’s not as if the styling suffers in any way. The engine makes a so-so 208 hp, but the QX30 undercuts the A3 on price.

Photo by Infiniti

2019 Kia Stinger

It might seem like a come-down to pass on an Audi and buy a Kia, but the Stinger changes the template. It’s a larger car than the A3, using a rear-drive setup with all-wheel drive as an option (the A3 is front-drive with optional all-wheel drive). And the entry-level version comes with 255 hp.

The Stinger uses a modified version of the Genesis G70 platform. It’s clearly a world-class creation, given the high praise earned by both cars. The Stinger also has the looks of a premium sedan. That’s not really surprising, since the current head of Kia design, Peter Schreyer, used to work for Audi and helped create the first TT.

Photo by Kia

2019 Lexus UX

Not for the last time, we’re looking at crossovers as the gateway to luxury vehicle ownership. The all-new-for-2019 UX starts at around $33,000, while the hybrid version (the only UX with all-wheel drive) is another $2,000 or so. Among these 10 Audi A3 competitors to consider, the UX is one of the few to offer a hybrid. The hatchback Audi A3 E-tron is a plug-in hybrid costing considerably more.

The UX has the well-known Lexus attributes of great build quality, many standard safety features, and generous levels of equipment for the price. Anyone seeking the most muscle, though, should look at the 175-hp UX 250h, as the non-hybrid UX 200 has a lackluster 169 hp.

Photo by Lexus

2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Ordinarily, the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class would be a rival to the Audi A3. But the company has decided to bring the A-Class sedan (the car providing the basis for the CLA) into the United States, starting with the 2019 model year.

Choosing between these two small four-doors with 3-pointed-star badges depends on whether a buyer prefers more passenger space, especially in the back, while finding the A-Class sufficiently powerful with 188 hp, or if the 208-hp CLA is more attractive despite the moans of tall rear passengers. The A-Class, wearing an A220 badge, is expected to cost around $30,000. The 2018 CLA-Class starts at $33,695. Both offer the option of all-wheel drive.

Photo by Mercedes-Benz

2019 Mini Hardtop 4-Door

When a buyer has 10 Audi A3 competitors to consider, at least one contender should be so compelling that it throws the whole idea of a subcompact sedan into doubt. The refreshed-for-2019 MINI Hardtop 4-door hatchback is just such a contender.

From a purely financial angle (with a starting price nearly $10,000 less than an A3), this premium hatchback can inspire interest. This front-drive machine also is packed with fun and character, especially in Cooper S form. The entry-level Cooper only has 134 hp, while the Cooper S brings 189 hp. Although it’s tempting to be dismissive of low-powered rivals, these amounts of muscle have a different significance in something as nimble as a Mini.

Photo by MINI

2019 Volkswagen Golf R

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf R’s starting price of $41,390 is appreciably higher than the 2018 Audi A3. But by the time an A3 buyer has opted for all-wheel drive and a handful of extra features, or perhaps chosen the 292-hp S3 at $44,625 (2018 pricing), then this enthusiast’s delight — with the same engine as the S3 — makes more sense.

In terms of quality, the Golf R is squeakily close to Audi. It’s one of those examples of the mainstream marque approaching the finesse of its premium stablemate. The 2019 model even has an adaptive suspension and navigation as standard. The Golf R is smart, powerful and practical. It’s a combination of talents that might make you wonder why anyone would want more.

Photo by Volkswagen

2019 Volvo XC40

The all-new-for-2019 Volvo XC40 range kicks off with 184 hp. This subcompact crossover is the least expensive new Volvo, starting at around $34,000. The number of standard safety features is reassuringly high, as are the quality of materials in the cabin and the comfort levels of the seats. Interestingly, the XC40 also is available through a two-year subscription service, where a monthly fee covers insurance and maintenance as well as use of the vehicle.

The revitalized designs from this company, as well as this novel way of affording a brand-new Volvo, have brought more customers into the dealerships. Speaking of designs, Volvo has a strong styling language all of its own, one that can compete aesthetically with Audi.

Photo by Ron Sessions