2020 Audi A3 vs Audi A4 Comparison Review with Vyocar
The A3’s cripplingly cramped rear seats make it a compromised ‘luxury’ hatchback posing as a sedan, while the A4’s standard Quattro and effortless powertrain deliver the authentic, grown-up Audi experience you’re actually paying for.
Design and Body Styles
Audi A3:
Okay, let’s talk looks. The Audi A3 cuts a distinctly different profile, especially if you snag the Sportback (hatchback) body style. It’s inherently stubby with short overhangs, giving it a nimble, sporty stance perfect for squeezing into tight city spots. Up front, you still get that iconic aggressive Audi look: a wide, sharp single-frame grille flanked by narrow, angry LED headlights slicing down the sides. Around rear, the taillights are equally crisp, and the hatch design offers surprising practicality wrapped in modern-looking, sharp lines. It’s unapologetically a subcompact luxury package. North America misses out on the convertible and the Sportback five-door is the main game here, offering flexible seating for five (though it’s cozy).
Audi A4:
Stepping up from the A3, you immediately notice it’s larger and feels more substantial. It’s a proper compact luxury sedan with longer proportions and more pronounced overhangs, giving it that classic upscale look. The front end features a wider, more assertive single-frame grille flanked by sharp standard LED headlights (especially post-2020 changes), while the rear gets equally slick LED taillights that wrap around cleanly. You won’t mistake it for the subcompact A3 – this four-door oozes a mature, planted stance. For those craving something different, there’s the lifted A4 All road wagon, which trades pavement presence for gravel-road grit. Inside, it comfortably seats five adults, feeling noticeably roomier than its youthful sibling. It’s bigger, sportier in higher trims, and undeniably more Audi in its traditional design execution.
Bottom Line:
If you dig shorter, stubbier proportions that scream city agility, the A3’s your jam. It’s weird in the best way, modern, almost cheeky, with tight dimensions perfect for dodging parallel-parking nightmares. But if you’re after that classic, mature luxury sedan look with balanced, traditional proportions, step up to the Audi A4. Post-2020, it got refreshed with sharper lines, ditching any awkwardness for pure executive presence. Bottom line? The A3 feels like a stylish urban runabout; the A4 is the year-round, grown-up model that whispers “I’ve arrived” without shouting.
See Also: 2017 Audi S8
Space/Practicality
Audi A3:
Let’s be brutally honest about the A3: that second-row is punishment seating with just 36.1 inches of leg room – your passengers back there will revolt. Headroom? A laughable 35.1 inches means anyone over 5’10” becomes a hunchback. Need cargo space? The trunk’s 12.3 cubic feet volume fits exactly one suitcase before crying uncle. You can fold the rear seats down for longer items like skis, but it’s still subcompact Tetris. Up front, 36.5 inches of leg room is barely adequate for a compact, making this a strict two-adult-and-a-grocery-bag hold. Pack light or pack regrets.
Audi A4:
The A4 laughs at the idea of cramped quarters. Up front, you get limo-like 41.3 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom – no yoga poses required. The second row? A legit adult-friendly 35.7 inches of leg room and 37.4 inches overhead mean your friends won’t hate you. That trunk packs 13 cubic feet of usable capacity – enough for three full-size suitcases or a Costco death march. Every row in this compact sedan proves luxury shouldn’t mean playing Tetris with your passengers or groceries.
Bottom Line:
Here’s the cold truth: if you never carry adults in the back seats, the A3’s small size is brilliant for parking. But if humans over 5’8″ need to exist behind you, bet on the A4. Its larger dimensions translate to a massive real-world margin – those rear seats are genuinely livable, while the A3’s feel like paper specs for contortionists. Both are four-door vehicles, but only one handles adult life without apologies. Bigger car, better practicality. Period.
Pricing, Trim Levels, and Best Pick
Audi A3:
Audi A4:
Bottom Line:
Powertrains
Audi A3:
Okay, let’s talk what moves these things. The Audi A3 lineup is a bit of a pick-your-poison situation. The base level 35 TFSI gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder making 148bhp – adequate, hitting 62mph in 9.7 seconds, but hardly thrilling. Its party trick is cylinder deactivation (Audi calls it COD), which feels more like a gimmick than a real benefit. Step up to the 40 TFSI with its 2.0-litre turbocharged mill pushing 201bhp and a much healthier 221 lb-ft of torque, slashing the 0-62mph sprint to a respectable 7.4 seconds. This feels like the sweet spot, especially paired with the slick seven-speed DSG transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but quattro all-wheel-drive is available on this uplevel model for extra grip. Then there’s the 40 TFSI e plug-in hybrid. It mates a 1.5 petrol engine to an electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery, offering a decent usable all-electric range of around 44 miles (WLTP) and a combined system power of 204bhp. It’s clever tech, but adds weight and complexity. Forget diesel (35 TDI with 114bhp) in most markets now – it’s largely vanished. Overall, the A3 offers decent power choices, but the base engine feels underwhelming.
Audi A4:
Now, the Audi A4 feels like a proper step up under the hood. Forget the wheezy options; the standard engine across the board is a 2.0‑liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but in different states of tune. The 40 TFSI kicks things off with 201bhp and 236 lb-ft, getting you to 60 mph in a brisk 6.3 seconds. The real star is the 45 TFSI, cranking out a powerful 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, hitting 60 mph in a genuinely quick 5.6 seconds. Both benefit from a mild‑hybrid system that smooths out stop-starts and helps a bit with fuel economy. The seven‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch automatic transmission is standard and shifts with clinical precision, far smoother than many competitors. Quattro AWD is also standard on the 45 and available on the 40, giving it that signature grippy, confident feel. It delivers power with a cultured growl, minimal turbo‑lag, and tractable torque right from sub‑2000 rpm. This powertrain feels balanced, smooth, and effortlessly powerful compared to the A3’s more pedestrian options. It handles bumpy roads and twisty sections with aplomb, feeling swift and precise without ever being harsh. It’s just a more sophisticated, powerful system overall.
Bottom Line:
The A3 gives buyers two distinct paths. You can choose the underwhelming 1.5L base engine and save cash, or pay up for the 2.0-liter 40 TFSI or PHEV for actual content. All-wheel drive is an optional extra here, adding cost. The A4, however, kicks off strong – its standard 2.0-liter turbo is genuinely powerful and smooth, feature-packed with mild-hybrid tech, and quattro AWD is either standard or easily available. No need to play the option game. While the A3 offers different sizes and guises (including the plug-in), the A4 delivers a more complete, premium powertrain experience right out the gate. Transmissions (DSG/ S tronic) are similarly sharp across both cars. For sheer driving satisfaction per dollar, the A4 wins this category hands-down. Want effortless power? Skip the A3’s lineup compromises.
See Also: 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line
Fuel Efficiency and Real World Testing
Audi A3:
Let’s talk gas mileage reality. The Audi A3 with its peppy 2.0L turbocharged engine and 7-speed DSG transmission offers EPA-estimated 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway (30 combined) in front-wheel-drive guise – decent numbers for a responsive compact. But frugality demands discipline: a quick right foot in city stops-and-go or aggressive merges makes that mileage gauge drop fast. Highway cruising at steady speeds is its sweet spot, easily hitting mid-30s mpg on longer stretches in warm weather. Add Quattro all-wheel-drive or heavy AC load, and expect dips. It’s economical enough for a daily commuter sipping regular unleaded, but far from a sipper if you enjoy its fun side. Real-world averaged low 20s in spirited urban use during my test.
Audi A4:
The Audi A4 leverages its mild-hybrid system and smoother-shifting drivetrain efficiency for better fuel optimization. EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway (27 mpg combined) sounds modest, but its idle-stop technology and energy recovery shine in mixed driving. Real-world testing revealed impressive highway refinement – I saw a consistent 32-34 mpg at 75 mph, feeling planted and quieter than many rivals. Around town, light throttle inputs and the smart start-stop feature help mitigate city traffic losses. The turbocharged setup is tractable, rarely needing a heavy foot. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard, yet the overall range on a full tank approaches a stellar 420 miles – combining predictable consumption figures with stellar practicality. It’s the more relaxed, efficient cruiser of the two.
Bottom Line:
Here’s the pump truth: the A3 looks thriftier on paper with higher EPA numbers, but drive it like you enjoy turbo boost and that mileage evaporates faster than your paycheck. It’s fine for steady commutes but punish it and you’ll see low-20s. The A4’s mild-hybrid tech is the dark horse – slightly lower ratings but smarter in real traffic, leveraging idle-stop and energy recovery to deliver surprisingly consistent mixed-driving efficiency. Want highway range that doesn’t trigger range anxiety? A4’s 420-mile tank laughs at pit stops. A3 for paper stats, A4 for actual refinement and less-frequent visits to the pump. Choose your frugality flavor.
See Also: 2025 Acura TLX Type S
Driving Dynamics / Impressions
Audi A3:
Don’t expect A8 serenity. This small, bubbly hatch-turned-sedan feels zippy and tossable in shopping center labyrinths – genuinely agile when hustled. The chassis is capable and refined for the class, but you feel every expansion joint, and coarse road noise filters through the dashboard like a turn-off. The powertrain (especially the 2.0T) delivers eager pep, making it feel quicker than spec sheets suggest. It’s an attractively-priced, inexpensive-feeling gateway into the Audi driving experience – fun when pushed, slightly crude when scrutinized. Think of it as a vehicle prioritizing urban spunk over sophisticated composure.
Audi A4:
Here’s where Audi flexes its mature, German-educated engineering. Compared to the A3, it feels like its big brother – significantly more balanced, sophisticated, and luxurious. The chassis absorbs bumpy roads with aplomb, serving up confident, grippy handling that rivals the BMW 3 Series for precision while feeling quieter and plusher than the Mercedes C-Class. Steering is light yet precise, body control is sharp without harshness, and the high-end interior isolates you from the world. It’s not a sports car, but it’s an incredibly competent, predictable, and refined daily driving machine. This segment editor would easily recommend it for its safety, technology, and overall luxurious disposition – it just exudes quality and sophistication.
Bottom Line:
Here’s the real deal: the A3 feels like Audi’s younger, scrappy sibling – fun for pennies but ultimately a budget product. The A4? It’s the superior, expensive big brother that actually earns the badge. Every buck spent shows in its bang-for-buck refinement and composure. In my opinion, skip the starter car if you want grown-up driving – the A4 justifies the extra cash without blinking. Save up or regret it.
See Also: 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid
Technology
Audi A3:
The A3 nails the essentials but feels like Audi’s tech training wheels. Standard kit includes a 7-inch MMI screen (cramped by today’s standards), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, automatic climate control, and cruise control. You’ll poke physical buttons and knobs for the MMI interface – straightforward, if dated. Step up to Premium Plus for the gorgeous 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster (Audi Virtual Cockpit) and heated steering wheel, or chase the Navigation package for built-in maps. The 10-speaker audio system is fine, but the 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen upgrade? That’s the 2020 dream. Rain-sensing wipers and two USB ports round out a competent but package-dependent setup.
Audi A4:
Now, the A4? This is where Audi flexes. Standard gear blows the A3 away: a larger 8.4-inch central display, full 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and active safety features like automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning. The multifunction steering wheel (often with shift paddles) feels premium, and Audi Drive Select serves up multiple drive modes to tweak the personality. Even the 10-speaker audio sounds richer, though the Bang & Olufsen high-definition upgrade is still the tech flex. Automatic climate control works smarter, not harder. Translation? The A4 integrates features like a luxury product should—no nickel-and-diming for the good stuff.
Bottom Line:
The A3 makes you pay more for optional extras that come standard on the A4. Want similar features like the Virtual Cockpit or decent safety tech? You’ll select expensive packages, turning that “affordable” deal into a shoot-yourself-in-the-foot scenario. The A4 includes better, more comprehensive equipment from the base trim. Don’t be tempted by the cheaper sticker, unless you enjoy paying extra for basics.
Safety
Audi A3:
Let’s cut through the marketing: both cars are tanks in crash safety tests, but the A3 plays optional roulette. Standard on the 2020 Audi A3? Automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and pedestrian detection. Want adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist? That’s locked in the Driver Assistance package (usually Premium Plus trim). The IIHS gave it a 2019 Top Safety Pick with Good scores in crashworthiness, but base HID units scored Poor – upgrade to LED units for Acceptable rating. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert? Another package. It’s safe, but you’ll pay extra for peace of mind.
Audi A4:
The A4 laughs at that nickel-and-diming. Standard kit includes Audi Pre Sense City (auto-braking for pedestrians/cyclists), eight airbags, and automatic high beams. The 2020 model nailed a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick thanks to Good-rated LED headlights and Superior front crash prevention. Higher trim levels (Prestige) add sophisticated goodies like the Assistance package (adaptive cruise control that works smoothly, not jerky), active lane assist, and exit warning to prevent dooring bikes. Parking lots become stress-free with front parking sensors and surround-view camera. It’s a sophisticated suit of armor that actually comes with the belt and suspenders.
Bottom Line:
The A3 forces you into expensive packages for crucial features that should be standard at this price. Want blind-spot monitoring or decent headlights? Pay up. The A4 includes comprehensive active safety and superior crash tech from the base trim – no nickel-and-dimed nonsense. If real-world armor matters, the A4’s standard suite offers genuine peace of mind without the optional hustle. Don’t gamble on safety packages.
See Also: 2021 Toyota Camry TRD
The Verdict: Audi A3 vs A4
Let’s be brutally honest: choosing the A3 solely for its lower starting price is a rookie move. Yeah, it wears the luxury badge, drives similarly to a well-built Volkswagen Golf (because, well, it shares bones), and fits smaller urban spots. But that cramped back seats and near-identical prices when you option the 2.0-liter engines and all-wheel drive make it feel like paying premium money for a compromised product. You might be tempted by the entry tag, but stepping inside feels like Audi-lite.
The A4, though? This is where the luxury promise gets real. For similar money (especially once you kit out the A3 properly), you get a vastly more refined drive, usable adult space, standard stronger engines, and a cabin that genuinely justifies the badge. It’s simply the premium product – suited for actual grown-ups or anyone with a big family. Unless your life revolves solely around parallel parking nightmares, the A4 delivers the substance behind the looks. Drive both back-to-back. The upgrade is undeniable.
Audi A3 Images
Audi A4 Images
