Audi A1 vs DS Automobiles DS 3 – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency: Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Audi A1 has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 19700 £, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 costs 28400 £. That’s a price difference of around 8777 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the DS Automobiles DS 3 manages with 5 L and is therefore barely noticeable more efficient than the Audi A1 with 5.20 L. The difference is about 0.20 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance: Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi A1 has a noticeable edge – offering 207 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 51 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A1 is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 takes 9.10 s. That’s about 2.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi A1 performs a bit better – reaching 245 km/h, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 tops out at 196 km/h. The difference is around 49 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Audi A1 pulls slightly stronger with 320 Nm compared to 260 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use: Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, the Audi A1 is hardly perceptible lighter – 1175 kg compared to 1249 kg. The difference is around 74 kg.

In terms of boot space, the DS Automobiles DS 3 offers minimal more room – 350 L compared to 335 L. That’s a difference of about 15 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Audi A1 performs barely noticeable better – up to 1090 L, which is about 40 L more than the DS Automobiles DS 3.

When it comes to payload, Audi A1 hardly perceptible takes the win – 470 kg compared to 466 kg. That’s a difference of about 4 kg.

All in all, the Audi A1 shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It impresses with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile companion for everyday use.