The Audi A3 and BMW 3 Series have been flagship models for their manufacturers for decades. BMW introduced its 3 Series in 1975, but the Audi A3 has gone toe-to-toe with the 3 Series vehicle since its launch in 1996. The first BMW 3 Series innovated with a dashboard angled toward the driver, an intuitive design feature that would become a staple of BMW vehicles. Audi also innovated, offering its A3 with luxury features, such as leather upholstery and premium sound systems, rarely seen in its compact class. Here's how the latest models compare.
Exterior Styling
Both Audi and BMW know how to create vehicles that look good, and the A3 and Series 3 are no exceptions. That means preferences will likely come down to personal taste. The A3 is a classic luxury vehicle with traditional good looks, while the Series 3's styling is a little left of center. A large Singleframe grille and angled LED headlights help give the A3 its air of sophistication. Its rear combination lamps and updated rear bumper ensure it looks just as impressive leaving as it does on the approach.
The 2024 BMW Series 3 has a more athletic, aggressive appearance on the road. The distinctive kidney-shaped front grille draws the eye. While some motorists will appreciate that BMW hasn't played it safe, others are bound to feel turned off by this unique feature. Narrow LED headlights flank this unusual centerpiece.
Interior and Technology
Audi's approach to styling continues inside the A3. Just like the exterior, the A3's cabin is chic and minimalist. Its classic design oozes sophistication with every detail. Unlike BMW, Audi doesn't skimp even at the base trim. Audi treats motorists to buttery leather upholstery, unlike BMW, which offers premium synthetic on the base trim instead. SensaTec is a decent imitator, but purists agree that nothing compares to the real deal. Vernasca leather upholstery is an available alternative, but this option further elevates the Series 3's price. A chrome-like plastic around the air vents also disappoints at this price point.
Given how BMW pushed the envelope with the Series 3's exterior, the sedate interior feels a little safe. It puts functionality first, which, while smart, isn't especially impressive. At this price point, motorists might expect amazing, but they're unlikely to feel blown away by the Series 3's interior. The base interior is relatively basic for its price point, and the comfort features that Audi includes as standard, such as lumbar support and heated seats, all cost extra.
Audi and BMW both treat motorists to cutting-edge tech systems featuring a digital instrument cluster and infotainment display. Audi's Multi Media Interface, or MMI for short, is every bit as user-friendly and full-featured as BMW's new iDrive 8.0 system. Both systems allow users to access contacts, entertainment, connectivity, and climate control features to enhance the driving experience. They also connect wirelessly to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both car makers also allow motorists to customize their new vehicles with different upholstery and trim options, but the selections are more extensive in the Audi. While BMW's narrower options are attractive, they can't offer the same bespoke experience.
Performance
Both vehicles have high-quality engines under the hood designed for superior performance on the road. The BMW 330i gets around with a 2.0-liter M TwinPower Turbo inline four-cylinder engine that produces 255 hp. A turbocharged 201 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combines with a 48-volt hybrid system for the Audi A3 at all trim levels. BMW equips the M340i with a similar combination engine. It pairs its 48-volt hybrid system with a turbocharged 382 hp 3.0-liter inline-six. BMW also offers a 330e plug-in hybrid, which combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and an electric motor for a total output of 288 hp.
Critics have praised the Audi A3 and BMW 3 Series for their responsive handling and smooth rides, befitting their luxury tags. The 3 Series' stiff suspension makes the ride a little firm though, especially in the M Sport. In contrast, the A3 rides comfortably over all kinds of roads. The M Sport's adaptive suspension option softens the ride somewhat, but it comes at a cost. While the BMWs are quicker off the market, Audi drivers won't have any problems keeping up with traffic.
Most will also have lower gas bills, as the A3 is more fuel-efficient than the Series 3 vehicles. The 2024 A3 gets around 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, and this is ever so slightly reduced to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive according to EPA estimates. Not even the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid, which has a combined rating of 28 mpg, could beat that.
Safety Ratings and Features
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hasn't rated the 2024 Audi A3 yet, but the latest BMW performed admirably, earning five stars for its front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options on all testing criteria. The 2024 A3 did earn good scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its crashworthiness, headlights, and ease of use of its lower anchors and tethers for children. The BMW Series 3 also earned good scores for crashworthiness and lower anchors and tethers, but its headlights weren't graded.
Both vehicles have helpful safety features, but BMW isn't nearly as generous as Audi. BMW only includes forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking as standard. Audi treats motorists to these features along with options like lane departure warning and automatic high beams, which BMW charges extra for.
Test-Drive the 2024 Audi A3 at Audi Ontario
The Audi A3 and BMW 3 Series have established themselves as leaders in the luxury class. They've battled for dominance over the years, but in 2024, the Audi easily comes out on top. We invite you to come and discover the A3's superior driving experience for yourself at Audi Ontario in Ontario, California. Browse our website to learn about our specials and available inventory, and then stop by our Ontario dealership to take these upscale new vehicles for a test drive. Contact us to book an appointment with a member of our friendly sales team today.
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