Comparison: Boot space Audi A3 vs. competitors 2025

How much cargo can handle this Schrägheck?

Ah, the Audi A3 – a symbol of compact luxury and the chariot of choice for those desiring the badge without the barge. What we've got here is not just a stylish little number, but a masterclass in the art of storage: the boot space. Not quite large enough to sleep in, but perfect for those weekly high-street splurges or airport dashes. As we scrutinize this vehicular Tardis, we'll see just how it stacks up against the ancestors of its lineage and the plethora of rivals vying for your chequebook.

Audi A3 - How has the boot space changed over the generations?

Since the original A3 8L first graced us with its presence back when we were partying like it was 1999, which, to be fair, it was - the boot space hasn't exactly skyrocketed. Remaining static at a dignified 350 liters across the first and second generations, only to receive a paltry 15 liters more with the introduction of the 8V in 2012. It's with the latest A3 8Y, however, that Audi decided a little more could be a lot better, stretching out to a sensible 380 liters. With the rear seats folded, we've gone from 1100 liters in the old school to a slightly roomier 1200 liters today – not enough to merit a game-changer title, but progress nonetheless.

Audi A3 generations

(Boot space)
The difference in Boot space between first generation (8L) from 1998 and last generation (A3 8Y (1. Facelift)) from 2024 is 30 l.
The boot space of the current generation of A3 is 380 l.

The boot space compared to other Audi models

In the great hall of Audi's beloved boot spaces, the A3 stands quite firmly in the middle. It's more spacious than the city-savvy A1's 335 liters, yet it looks up in slightly envious awe at the cavernous Q7, which boasts an immense 865 liters before you've so much as looked at a rear seat. Within the A3 range, if you opt for the ever-so-slightly bigger Sportback version, you're looking at the same 380 liters, or if you let your life be dictated by a lust for speed, the RS3 Limousine offers 321 liters, because who needs luggage when you've got horsepower?

Audi A3 vs other current cars by Audi

(Boot space)

How does the boot space of the Audi A3 compare to it's nearest competitors?

Glance beyond the four rings, and you're met with an array of adversaries, eager to show off their pragmatic prowess. The Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse stands proud with its 390 liters – a statement that functionality can indeed come with a silver star. BMW's 1er-Reihe brings a respectable 330 liters to the contest. But let’s not forget the Volvo C30's pert 278 liters, confirming that Swedish design sometimes prioritizes form over function, a choice as perplexing as their national obsession with pickled herring. With length and wheelbase considered, the A3's rivals often stretch out further, but as is the case with many a childhood fairy tale, being longer doesn't always equal more space in the boot.

Audi A3 vs. similar cars

(Boot space)

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