@ Audi AG
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Audi Q3 vs VW Golf – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or VW Golf?

Q3 @ Audi AG

The Audi Q3 and VW Golf: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to choosing the perfect car, both the Audi Q3 and VW Golf offer compelling features and performance metrics that make them stand out. Whether you're looking for power, efficiency, or style, these two models cater to varied preferences. Let's delve into an in-depth comparison to help you make an informed choice.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Body Type

The Audi Q3, with its SUV credentials, promises a robust and elevated stance. Its dimensions, with a length of up to 4500 mm, width of 1849 mm, and height of up to 1585 mm, communicate a commanding road presence. On the other hand, the VW Golf, a quintessential hatchback, offers compact yet sporty lines. It boasts a slightly smaller stature with a maximum length of 4292 mm, width of 1789 mm, and height varying up to 1483 mm, making it more agile in tight city roads.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Engine Offerings and Performance

The Audi Q3 offers both petrol and diesel engine options, with available power outputs ranging from 150 HP to a formidable 245 HP. It serves those hungry for speed with a top acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds and a maximum speed reaching 237 km/h. This range accommodates the varied demands for power and efficacy. In contrast, the VW Golf's engine lineup is versatile with conventional petrol, mild hybrid (MHEV), diesel, and plugin hybrid options. The power spectrum extends from 116 HP to an exhilarating 333 HP, attracting eco-conscious drivers with an electric range of up to 143 km, thanks to its plug-in hybrid variant.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Transmission and Drive Systems

Both models offer multiple transmission choices. The Audi Q3 provides options between a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic, with drive configurations ranging from front-wheel to the more secure all-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the VW Golf maintains flexibility with manual and dual-clutch configurations along with available front-wheel and all-wheel drive, catering to diverse driving conditions.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Fuel Efficiency and CO2 Emissions

In terms of efficiency, the Audi Q3 offers fuel consumption rates between 5.5 to 8.5 L/100 km, with CO2 emissions ranging from 143 to 193 g/km. Meanwhile, the VW Golf shows stronger eco-credentials, with consumption between 4.3 to 8.5 L/100 km, and CO2 emissions impressively low at 6 to 192 g/km, making it a more environmentally friendly option, especially with its hybrid models.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Interior Comfort and Trunk Capacity

Both models accommodate five passengers, with the Audi Q3 promising more boot space at 530 liters, compared to the VW Golf's maximum trunk of 381 liters. This extra space in the Q3 can be significantly beneficial for families or those with larger cargo needs. However, the Golf's compact design doesn't sacrifice comfort and can surprise with its clever use of space inside.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Conclusion

Choosing between the Audi Q3 and VW Golf should hinge on your lifestyle needs and driving preferences. The Q3 suits those seeking a higher driving position and a potent SUV prowess, while the Golf excels as a compact car with agile handling and superior hybrid technology. Both vehicles promise an exceptional driving experience, leaving you to decide based on the parameters most crucial to your daily drive.

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

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

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

VW Golf has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 25200 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 13033 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf manages with 1.10 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Audi Q3 with 1.70 L. The difference is about 0.60 L per 100 km.

As for range, the VW Golf performs slightly better – achieving up to 143 km, about 24 km more than the Audi Q3.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Golf has a slightly edge – offering 333 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 61 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Golf is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.70 s. That’s about 1.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf performs somewhat better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Audi Q3 tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Golf pulls slight stronger with 420 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 20 Nm difference.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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, VW Golf is noticeable lighter – 1307 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 328 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Audi Q3 offers clearly perceptible more room – 488 L compared to 381 L. That’s a difference of about 107 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Audi Q3 performs a bit better – up to 1386 L, which is about 149 L more than the VW Golf.

When it comes to payload, Audi Q3 slight takes the win – 535 kg compared to 508 kg. That’s a difference of about 27 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the VW Golf shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £25,200
Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Golf

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 333 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.1 - 8.1 L
  • Electric Range : 131 - 143 km

Audi Q3

5 (1)
rate

The Audi Q3 feels like a grown-up compact SUV with premium polish and city-friendly agility, the sort of car that makes weekend escapes and daily commutes equally satisfying. Inside, you get quality materials and smart packaging that keep things practical without skimping on style, so it’s an easy pick for buyers who want luxury without the drama.

details

VW Golf

The VW Golf remains the everyman’s favourite — cleverly balanced, composed and just posh enough to feel grown-up without pretending to be something it’s not. It slips through town and eats up longer trips with a refined cabin, practical layout and a kindly, capable character that turns everyday driving into something a little bit special.

details
Audi Q3
VW Golf
Q3 @ Audi AG
Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
25200 - 47600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 8.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
131 - 143 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
25 - 184 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1307 - 1662 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
273 - 381 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4282 - 4296 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1454 - 1483 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
1129 - 1237 L
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
438 - 508 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 270 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, G, C, B
Brand
Audi
Brand
VW
Is the Audi Q3 offered with different drivetrains?

The Audi Q3 is available as 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.