BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4: Used Car Comparison

While SUVs have become the family car of choice, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 sedans are still very popular. They combine a spacious family cabin with the comfort and sophistication of a luxury car that you're willing to pay more for.

But which is better? Here's our guide to the 3 Series and A4 where we'll take a look at how they compare in key areas. We're looking at the latest models - the 3 Series has been on sale since 2018 and the A4 since 2016.

Interior and technology

The 3 Series and A4 are equipped with high-tech features. All versions of both cars feature an infotainment system with sat-nav, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, among a host of other features. Be aware that some earlier 3 Series and A4 models have or Compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It's only in the last couple of years that they've had both.

The cars also have climate control, cruise control, parking sensors and a digital display for the driver. Higher spec models have additional features such as heated leather seats.

Higher-spec 3 Series and A4 vehicles come with additional infotainment features, including the ability to sync your phone with sat-nav to automatically route you to your next destination. BMW and Audi also have smartphone apps that can display vehicle information and control certain functions.

The 3 Series has an attractive and comfortable interior, but the A4 feels even more beautifully crafted, giving it more of a wow factor.

Luggage compartment and practicality

Both the 3 Series and the A4 have plenty of room in the front seats, no matter your size, although the BMW has a taller console between the seats, which can make it seem less spacious than it really is. At the back, there isn't much difference between the two. Two tall people can fit comfortably, while a third can squeeze into the middle rear seat for short trips. If you have two children, any car will have enough space.

Each car has the same boot capacity of 480 liters, which is enough for several large suitcases when you go on vacation. The BMW trunk has a larger opening and a more square shape, so it's easier to load. The rear seats of both cars fold down to carry longer loads.

If you need to haul even more, the 3 Series and A4 are available in station wagon form: the 3 Series Touring and the Audi A4 Avant. The Touring's trunk is slightly larger than the Avant with the rear seats folded (500 liters vs. 495 litres), but the volume is the same with the seats folded down (1,510 litres). The Touring's rear window pops up without opening the entire trunk lid, making it easier to load small items.

If you prefer a higher seating position, check out the Audi A4 Allroad. This is the A4 Avant with additional SUV-inspired design details and increased ground clearance.

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What is the best way to ride?

Both the 3 Series and the A4 handle well, but in different ways. When you're just driving from point A to point B, they're quiet, comfortable, and will park with no problem. On the open road, the differences become clearer.

The A4 feels more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy a beautifully designed interior and very comfortable seats. It is great for long trips, relieving stress and tension while driving on the motorway. It's the same with the 3 Series, but it feels a lot more agile and attractive, in other words, fun on back roads.

Both vehicles are available with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines. Even the weakest models provide smooth and responsive acceleration; the more powerful versions of each are very fast. Manual transmissions are available, but most buyers opt for an automatic transmission, which is standard on the more powerful models anyway. You can also get all-wheel drive, branded "xDRIVE" on BMWs and "quattro" on Audis.

What is cheaper to own?

BMW and Audi are premium brands, so their cars cost more than "mainstream" brands like Ford. But the quality of the 3 Series and A4 and the wealth of standard features make them worth the price, and all but the sportiest versions are very economical.

However, the A4 has an advantage. According to official averages, A4s with TFSi petrol engines can deliver fuel economy of 36-46 mpg, while TDi diesels can deliver 49-60 mpg. The 3 Series can give 41-43 mpg with the "i" petrol engine and 47-55 mpg with the "d" diesel.

Only the 3 Series is available as a plug-in hybrid. The petrol-electric 330e has a zero-emission range of up to 41 miles and takes less than four hours to fully charge from a home EV charger. Some newer 3 Series and A4 models have mild hybrid technology that improves fuel economy and reduces emissions, but does not offer electric power only.  

Safety and reliability

Safety organization Euro NCAP gave the 3 Series and A4 full five-star ratings. Both are equipped with driver safety systems that can help you avoid a collision. Some of these are standard on Audi, but extra on BMW.

Both cars are built to very high standards, but the A4 seems to be built with extreme precision. Neither Audi nor BMW scored well in the latest JD Power UK Vehicle Dependability Study - Audi ranked 22nd out of 24 car brands, while BMW came last in the table.

dimensions

BMW 3 Series

Length: 4,709mm

Width: 2,068mm (including exterior mirrors)

Height: 1,435mm

Luggage compartment: 480 liters (salon); 500 liters (station wagon)

Audi A4

Length: 4,762mm

Width: 2,022mm (including exterior mirrors)

Height: 1,428mm 

Luggage compartment: 480 liters (sedan) 495 liters (station wagon)

Verdict

The BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 are great cars that show you don't necessarily need an SUV if you have a family. They also seem to be a reasonable size if you don't regularly carry passengers or fill your trunk. 

Choosing between them is difficult because they are very close. Without taking into account the design and brand of cars that may influence your decision, we are going to give the first place to the Audi A4. It's not as fun to drive as a BMW, but it has a more impressive interior and technology, its petrol and diesel engines are more efficient, and it relieves the stress and strain of everyday driving a little better.  

You'll find a wide selection of used Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series cars for sale on Cazoo. Find the right one for you, then buy online and have it delivered to your door, or choose to pick it up from your nearest Cazoo customer service center.

We are constantly updating and expanding our range. If you can't find the right vehicle today, you can easily set up a stock alert to be the first to know when we have vehicles that match your needs.