@ Audi AG
@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
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Audi A3 Sportback vs Skoda Scala – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Audi A3 Sportback or Skoda Scala?

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

A Clash of Hatchbacks: Audi A3 Sportback vs. Skoda Scala

When it comes to compact hatchbacks, the Audi A3 Sportback and the Skoda Scala both make strong cases for themselves. Sharing some technical DNA, these models sport different philosophies, features, and price tags, making them appealing to varied audiences. Let's delve into the specifics and see how these two contenders stack up.

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Under the Hood: Engine Variants and Performance

The Audi A3 Sportback offers a diverse range of engine types, from traditional petrol and diesel engines to cutting-edge mild-hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid options. With power outputs ranging up to a robust 400 HP, it caters to those who demand high performance. Notably, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h can be achieved in a swift 3.8 seconds with certain configurations.

In contrast, the Skoda Scala stays closer to its roots with exclusively petrol engines. Power output peaks at 150 HP, offering a balance between efficiency and performance. The Scala can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a respectable 8.2 seconds.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Efficiency: Fuel Consumption and Emissions

Fuel economy is a crucial factor in this segment. The Audi A3 Sportback’s plugin hybrid version impresses with a fuel consumption of just 0.3 L/100km and a CO2 efficiency class as high as B, offering an electric range of up to 143 km, thanks to its 19.7 kWh battery.

The Skoda Scala, though lacking a hybrid variant, provides a commendable fuel consumption range from 5.1 to 5.6 L/100km and maintains emission standards with a CO2 efficiency class of up to C.

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Transmission and Drive Options

Both models feature the choice between a manual gearbox and a smooth dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, where they differ is in drive options. The Audi A3 Sportback provides the added versatility of an all-wheel drive, appealing to those who might want extra grip and stability under varied driving conditions, while the Scala is strictly front-wheel drive.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Size and Practicality

The Audi A3 Sportback measures up to 4381 mm in length, with trunk capacity ranging up to 380 liters—ample storage for a compact family car. It also has a fuel tank capacity varying from 40 to 55 liters, adding a layer of convenience for those longer journeys.

Skoda Scala, slightly longer at 4362 mm, boasts a larger trunk capacity of 467 liters, providing an edge in practicality for those needing extra cargo space. The Scala's single 50-liter fuel tank indicates a well-considered design keeping road trip comforts in mind.

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Comfort and Seating

Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, but their interior ambiance and tech offerings aim at different niches. The Audi A3 Sportsback is geared more towards those looking for a premium feel, while the Skoda Scala focuses on delivering value-for-money comfort, suited for families.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion

Ultimately, choosing between the Audi A3 Sportback and the Skoda Scala may come down to personal priorities. If cutting-edge technology, performance, and a premium badge are decisive factors, the Audi A3 Sportback is the clear winner. However, for those seeking a practical, economical, and spacious vehicle, the Skoda Scala stands as a highly competitive alternative. Each car undoubtedly holds its strengths, proving that the hatchback market still contains plenty of diversity for discerning drivers.

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

Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Skoda Scala has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 20900 £, while the Audi A3 Sportback costs 26800 £. That’s a price difference of around 5923 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi A3 Sportback manages with 1.10 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Skoda Scala with 5 L. The difference is about 3.90 L per 100 km.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

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 convincingly edge – offering 400 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 250 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A3 Sportback is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 3.80 s, while the Skoda Scala takes 8.20 s. That’s about 4.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi A3 Sportback performs somewhat better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Skoda Scala tops out at 221 km/h. The difference is around 29 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi A3 Sportback pulls decisively stronger with 500 Nm compared to 250 Nm. That’s about 250 Nm difference.

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, Skoda Scala is a bit lighter – 1199 kg compared to 1360 kg. The difference is around 161 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Skoda Scala offers slightly more room – 467 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 87 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Skoda Scala performs somewhat better – up to 1410 L, which is about 210 L more than the Audi A3 Sportback.

When it comes to payload, Audi A3 Sportback a bit takes the win – 480 kg compared to 431 kg. That’s a difference of about 49 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Audi A3 Sportback proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects 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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Skoda Scala

5 (2)
rate

The Skoda Scala is a tidy, no-nonsense hatch that wraps clever packaging and composed manners into a compact, grown-up package. It’s the sensible choice for buyers who want everyday practicality with a dash of style and personality—no drama, just reliable charm.

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Audi A3 Sportback
Skoda Scala
A3 Sportback @ Audi AG
Scala @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Costs and Consumption

Price
26800 - 56600 £
Price
20900 - 30700 £
Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L
Consumption L/100km
5 - 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
114 - 126 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1360 - 1685 kg
Curb weight
1199 - 1271 kg
Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
467 L
Length
4352 - 4381 mm
Length
4362 mm
Width
1816 - 1851 mm
Width
1793 mm
Height
1415 - 1470 mm
Height
1514 mm
Max trunk capacity
1100 - 1200 L
Max trunk capacity
1410 L
Payload
410 - 480 kg
Payload
403 - 431 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
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
95 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.2 - 10.8 s
Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
192 - 221 km/h
Torque
220 - 500 Nm
Torque
175 - 250 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 294 kW
Power kW
70 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 2480 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1498 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D
Brand
Audi
Brand
Skoda
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.