Audi S3 vs BMW M135i vs Mercedes-AMG A35: Which offers the best value for money in 2022?

The Audi S3 goes toe-to-toe with products from BMW and Mercedes-AMG in the mid-tier hot hatchback category, but which model offers you the best bang for your buck?

Audi’s S3 has its hands full trying to dethrone rivals such as the BMW M135i xDrive and Mercedes-AMG A35 when looking at out-and-out performance, and the decision as to which model to choose often comes down to brand preference, but what about those of us looking at value? For today’s comparison, we will be comparing the S3 with two fellow German products that offer similar packages and performance to determine which offers the best value for money.

Practicality

In terms of dimensions, there is very little to choose between our three contenders, however, the Mercedes-AMG, from our experience, offers the most interior space. The 1 Series features the largest boot at 380-litres, followed by the A35 at 370-litres, which the Audi in third place, sporting 325-litres.

Performance

In terms of performance, the AMG has an advantage, there is very little to choose between the three cars, but the AMG has the lowest claimed 0-100km/h time. When looking at efficiency, again, the AMG has the claimed lowest figure, however, we have experienced very similar consumption figures from this trio in the real world.

*This table was compiled with information sourced from www.duoporta.co.za as well as the official press releases of each model.

Specification

All three models feature ABS, traction and stability control, six airbags (seven in the A35), ISOFIX child seat anchor points, alloy wheels, multifunction steering wheels, artificial leather seats, climate control, multifunction steering wheels, cruise control, partial leather seats, LED headlights, touchscreen infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety

The A3 range was crash tested by Euro NCAP in 2022 and received 5-Stars, with 89% for adult occupant safety, 81% for child occupant safety, 68% for vulnerable road users and 73% for its safety assistance systems The BMW has also been tested by Euro NCAP, but in 2019 and received 5-Stars, with 83% for adult occupant safety, 87% for child occupant safety, 76% for vulnerable road users and 72% for its safety assistance systems. The Mercedes-AMG had its Euro NCAP test conducted in 2018, and it too received 5-Stars, with 96% for adult occupant safety, 91% for child occupant safety, 92% for vulnerable road users and 75% for its safety assistance systems.

Warranty and maintenance

In the warranty and service department, all three of our contenders come with 5-year/100 000km maintenance plans.

Verdict

There is a clear winner in terms of value for money, and that is the Audi S3 which is considerably cheaper than its key rivals and features a similar standard package.

Sean NurseWith a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.View News & Reviews

Keyword: Audi S3 vs BMW M135i vs Mercedes-AMG A35: Which offers the best value for money in 2022?