Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Audi A3 Sportback or BMW X1?
In the competitive arena of compact cars, Audi and BMW have been long-standing rivals. With the Audi A3 Sportback and the BMW X1 leading their respective segments, it's time to compare these two icons in terms of design, performance, and technology. Both vehicles cater to different audiences but share the common goal of delivering premium experiences.
The Audi A3 Sportback showcases a sleek, hatchback design that combines elegance with a sporty flair. Measuring between 4352 mm and 4381 mm in length, it maintains a compact stature enhancing its agility. The A3's width stands at 1816 mm and its height varies slightly around 1470 mm, giving it a low, aerodynamic profile.
Contrastingly, the BMW X1 embraces a robust SUV design, standing taller and more imposing than the A3. Measuring 4500 mm to 4505 mm in length and boasting a height between 1622 mm and 1642 mm, it offers a more commanding road presence. Despite its larger size, the X1 maintains a sophisticated look, catering to buyers who value spaciousness alongside luxury.
Under the hood, the Audi A3 Sportback offers a range of engines including petrol, diesel, and even a plug-in hybrid option. The petrol variants produce between 150 HP to a staggering 400 HP, suitable for various driving styles. The Sportback's plug-in hybrid offers an electric range up to 143 km, backed by a 19.7 kWh battery, supporting an eco-friendly lifestyle without sacrificing power.
The BMW X1 does not lag behind, offering similar variety with its diesel, petrol, and hybrid engines. The petrol variants deliver up to 245 HP, while the hybrid model offers an electric range of 83 km thanks to its 14.2 kWh battery. This demonstrates BMW's commitment to efficient performance, matched with their signature driving dynamics.
Inside the Audi A3 Sportback, the focus is on a driver-centric layout, enveloping occupants in premium materials. The trunk offers up to 380 liters, adequate for everyday use without compromising on passenger comfort.
The X1, true to its SUV nature, provides more room for passengers and cargo, with a trunk capacity of up to 540 liters. Its interior is designed for practicality and elegance, making it ideal for those who need extra space for family or gear.
Both vehicles are outfitted with the latest technology. The Audi A3 Sportback is equipped with an advanced infotainment system, featuring intuitive controls and connectivity options that keep drivers informed and entertained.
Similarly, the BMW X1 is no stranger to innovation, fitted with an impressive infotainment suite that offers a plethora of functions from navigation to real-time traffic updates, enhanced by the premium build quality BMW is known for.
The decision between the Audi A3 Sportback and the BMW X1 ultimately depends on personal preference and lifestyle. The A3 Sportback appeals to those looking for sporty elegance and performance, while also offering a greener drive through its hybrid model. Meanwhile, the BMW X1 stands out for those needing more space and versatility without compromising on luxury and efficiency. Explore both, and you may find that either could be your perfect road companion.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Audi A3 Sportback has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26800 £, while the BMW X1 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 11400 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi A3 Sportback manages with 1.10 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the BMW X1 with 2.50 L. The difference is about 1.40 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Audi A3 Sportback performs significantly better – achieving up to 141 km, about 60 km more than the BMW X1.
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 A3 Sportback has a to a small extent edge – offering 400 HP compared to 326 HP. That’s roughly 74 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A3 Sportback is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.80 s, while the BMW X1 takes 5.40 s. That’s about 1.60 s faster.
There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 250 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Audi A3 Sportback pulls slight stronger with 500 Nm compared to 477 Nm. That’s about 23 Nm difference.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Audi A3 Sportback is a bit lighter – 1360 kg compared to 1575 kg. The difference is around 215 kg.
In terms of boot space, the BMW X1 offers evident more room – 540 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 160 L.
In maximum load capacity, the BMW X1 performs evident better – up to 1600 L, which is about 400 L more than the Audi A3 Sportback.
When it comes to payload, BMW X1 hardly perceptible takes the win – 500 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 20 kg.
The Audi A3 Sportback proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Audi A3 Sportback is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Audi AG
The Audi A3 Sportback wraps premium materials and crisp German design into a practical hatchback package that makes daily driving feel smart rather than showy. It’s nimble in the city, composed on longer trips, and carries just enough swagger to satisfy buyers who want quality without shouting about it.
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@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
@ Audi AG
The BMW X1 brings a premium feel to compact crossover life, wrapping practical space and agile handling into a tidy, upscale package. It’s ideal for buyers who want BMW driving dynamics without the bulk, offering everyday comfort and a few clever tricks to keep the commute interesting.
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@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
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@ Audi AG
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@ BMW Group Press
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
26800 - 56600 £
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Price
38200 - 55500 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L
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Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 7.7 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
134 - 141 km
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Electric Range
81 km
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
14.20 kWh
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co2
25 - 211 g/km
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co2
57 - 175 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
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Fuel tank capacity
47 - 54 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1360 - 1685 kg
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Curb weight
1575 - 1935 kg
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Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
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Trunk capacity
490 - 540 L
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Length
4352 - 4381 mm
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Length
4500 - 4505 mm
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Width
1816 - 1851 mm
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Width
1845 mm
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Height
1415 - 1470 mm
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Height
1622 - 1642 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1100 - 1200 L
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Max trunk capacity
1495 - 1600 L
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Payload
410 - 480 kg
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Payload
490 - 500 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
116 - 400 HP
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Power HP
136 - 326 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 9.2 s
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Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
190 - 250 km/h
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Torque
220 - 500 Nm
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Torque
230 - 477 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Power kW
85 - 294 kW
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Power kW
100 - 240 kW
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Engine capacity
1498 - 2480 cm3
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Engine capacity
1499 - 1998 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B
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Brand
Audi
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Brand
BMW
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The Audi A3 Sportback is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Norge
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
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