What are the differences between Audi A3 and A3L?
3 Answers
Here are the differences between Audi A3 and A3L: 1. Different vehicle dimensions: The A3 has a length, width, and height of 4343mm (4351mm with different packages)/1815mm/1458mm, with a wheelbase of 2630mm. The sedan version, Audi A3L, is longer, with a body length of 4540mm, a wheelbase of 2680mm, a width of 1820mm, and a height of 1460mm. 2. Different fuel consumption: The Audi A3 has an average fuel consumption of 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers, while the Audi A3L averages 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers. 3. Different characteristics: The Audi A3 hatchback is compact and sporty, whereas the A3L sedan is sleek and elegant, with the sedan version offering much more stable overall performance than the hatchback.
Having driven the A3 and also ridden in the A3L, let me share a few thoughts. The A3 is a standard-wheelbase hatchback, where the rear seats are okay for two people, and the trunk is relatively compact. The handling feels incredibly agile—taking corners is as effortless as riding a bike. The A3L, with its 12 cm longer wheelbase, primarily benefits rear passengers. Last time I sat in the back of a friend’s A3L, my knees were still more than two fists away from the front seat. The trunk is also deeper, fitting a stroller without needing to remove the wheels. It feels more stable to drive, but navigating narrow roads is a bit trickier than with the A3. When deciding which to buy, consider this: if you mostly drive alone, the A3 is easier to park; if you often carry family, the A3L offers more comfort. Oh, and the domestically produced A3L also comes with a panoramic sunroof.
These two models are frequently seen on the lifts in repair shops. The most noticeable difference lies in their chassis numbers: the A3 chassis starts with 8VS, while the A3L begins with 8Y8. Both feature MacPherson strut front suspensions, but their rear suspension tuning differs—the A3 feels firmer over speed bumps. A 60mm wheelbase gap makes the rear door three fingers longer than the front, requiring adjusted entry/exit angles for rear passengers. Electrical systems also vary: the A3L adds dual rear USB ports and conceals air vents in the B-pillar. Used car buyers should note: A3s often develop rear door hinge squeaks, while A3Ls may experience sticky rear seat sliding rails.
