@ Audi AG
@ Renault Group Media
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Audi A3 Sportback vs Renault Captur – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Two cars, one duel: Audi A3 Sportback meets Renault Captur.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Overview: The Audi A3 Sportback vs Renault Captur

In the world of compact vehicles, the battle between hatchbacks and SUVs is ever-prevalent. Two standout models that embody these categories are the Audi A3 Sportback and the Renault Captur. Each vehicle has its own unique characteristics and innovations that appeal to different segments of the automotive market. This comparison will analyze their technical specifications, design features, and driving experiences to help prospective buyers make an informed decision.

Captur @ Renault Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The Audi A3 Sportback, with its sleek hatchback design, measures 4,353 mm in length and boasts a width of 1,816 mm. Its elegant lines and sporty silhouette reflect Audi’s commitment to modern aesthetics. In contrast, the Renault Captur has a more robust, SUV-inspired design, measuring 4,239 mm in length and 1,797 mm in width. The height of the Captur, at 1,575 mm, contributes to a higher driving position, providing a commanding view of the road.

Both vehicles offer five-door configurations, catering to families and those requiring additional space. However, the trunk capacity differentiates them; the A3 offers 380 liters of storage, while the Captur provides a slightly larger option at 422 liters — an important consideration for those valuing cargo space.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Engine Options and Performance

When it comes to engine offerings, the Audi A3 Sportback presents a diverse lineup including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variants, with power outputs ranging from 116 HP to a remarkable 400 HP in the high-performance models. The efficiency characteristics are impressive, with fuel consumption ranging from 4.8 to 8.4 L/100 km, and its electric version providing up to 143 km of electric range from a 19.7 kWh battery.

Conversely, the Renault Captur offers a range of petrol engines and a full hybrid option, with power outputs generally peaking at 158 HP. Its fuel consumption varies from 4.7 L/100 km for the hybrid version to around 7.8 L/100 km for the less efficient models. Despite having a lower maximum speed of 180 km/h compared to the A3, the Captur still provides adequate power for urban driving and occasional highway adventures.

Captur @ Renault Group Media

Transmission and Handling

The Audi A3 Sportback excels with its advanced transmission options, featuring both manual and dual-clutch automatic systems, enhancing driver engagement and ensuring smooth gear shifts. With front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, it adapts well to various driving conditions, making it suitable for both city and countryside driving.

The Renault Captur, primarily available with front-wheel drive, also provides a choice between automatic and manual gearboxes. Its handling is characterized by its SUV platform, offering a higher driving position and a comfortable ride, albeit sometimes at the cost of sporty responsiveness compared to the A3.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Technological Innovations

Both cars are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, but they offer different driving experiences. The Audi A3 Sportback features a sophisticated infotainment system with a high-resolution display, wireless connectivity, and advanced driver assistance systems, making it a tech-savvy choice for its segment.

On the other hand, the Renault Captur incorporates a well-designed infotainment setup, complete with connectivity features and safety systems, albeit with less emphasis on performance metrics than its Audi counterpart. Its design is driver-friendly, focusing on practicality and ease of use which appeals to a wide range of customers.

Captur @ Renault Group Media

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

The choice between the Audi A3 Sportback and Renault Captur ultimately boils down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. If you prioritize performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Audi A3 Sportback is the clear winner. It offers an exhilarating driving experience, a variety of powerful engines, and high-grade features.

Conversely, if practicality, space, and a commanding view of the road are more important to you, the Renault Captur stands out with its SUV-like characteristics, higher cargo capacity, and user-friendly technologies. In the end, both vehicles uphold their brand traditions while catering to different aspects of modern automotive desires.

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

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Renault Captur has a noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 21100 £, while the Audi A3 Sportback costs 26800 £. That’s a price difference of around 5700 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi A3 Sportback manages with 1.10 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Renault Captur with 4.50 L. The difference is about 3.40 L per 100 km.

Captur @ Renault Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi A3 Sportback has a significantly edge – offering 400 HP compared to 143 HP. That’s roughly 257 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 Renault Captur takes 8.90 s. That’s about 5.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi A3 Sportback performs evident better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Renault Captur tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi A3 Sportback pulls decisively stronger with 500 Nm compared to 265 Nm. That’s about 235 Nm difference.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Renault Captur is barely noticeable lighter – 1323 kg compared to 1360 kg. The difference is around 37 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Captur offers hardly perceptible more room – 422 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 42 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Captur performs slightly better – up to 1363 L, which is about 163 L more than the Audi A3 Sportback.

When it comes to payload, Audi A3 Sportback slight takes the win – 480 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 27 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Audi A3 Sportback proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Audi A3 Sportback is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £26,800
A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Audi A3 Sportback

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 400 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.1 - 9.3 L
  • Electric Range : 134 - 141 km

Audi A3 Sportback

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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Renault Captur

5 (1)
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The Renault Captur is a cheeky little crossover that pairs city-friendly agility with a roomy, well-thought-out cabin and enough style to turn heads at the lights. It’s a sensible choice for buyers who want practical versatility and a dash of personality on their daily drives, without taking itself too seriously.

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Audi A3 Sportback
Renault Captur
A3 Sportback @ Audi AG
Captur @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
26800 - 56600 £
Price
21100 - 28300 £
Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
134 - 141 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
25 - 211 g/km
co2
102 - 137 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
48 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1360 - 1685 kg
Curb weight
1323 - 1514 kg
Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
326 - 422 L
Length
4352 - 4381 mm
Length
4239 mm
Width
1816 - 1851 mm
Width
1797 mm
Height
1415 - 1470 mm
Height
1575 mm
Max trunk capacity
1100 - 1200 L
Max trunk capacity
1276 - 1363 L
Payload
410 - 480 kg
Payload
376 - 453 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 400 HP
Power HP
115 - 143 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.9 - 12.3 s
Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
220 - 500 Nm
Torque
160 - 265 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 294 kW
Power kW
84 - 116 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 2480 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 - 1789 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, E
Brand
Audi
Brand
Renault
What drive types are available for the Audi A3 Sportback?

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.