Audi A3 review

All versions of the Audi A3 share one thing: an absolutely gorgeous interior, with top-level, class-defining fit and finish. The old A3 was, despite its age, at the top of its game in this area: the new one simply extends this leadership further, while bringing new features to the table too. These include on-board internet, fingertip recognition sat nav entry and Audi drive select. As for practicality, the hatchback ones are more flexible but the saloon has a huge boot.

As always, you'll need to tick lots of expensive boxes if you want the best tech, but there's an inherent rightness to the driving position and ergonomics whichever A3 you buy. VW Group products may not always be the most enthralling, but they're blooming good at the everyday stuff.

The problem with Audi's constantly evolving tech is that its fancy new models are too good at dating their stablemates. So while the A3 is a thoroughly nice thing inside, the latest Audis feel nicer yet. Happily, though, you can spec Audi's 'Virtual Cockpit' digital dials, and unlike in an R8 or TT, the passenger can still control the music or nav when they're fitted. Phew.