Audi S3 vs Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Audi S3

Hatchback · Gasoline · AWD

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Hatchback · Gasoline · FWD

Car A

Audi S3

The Audi S3 blends all-weather AWD grip with brisk 310 hp performance and a 4.8 s 0–100 km/h sprint, while remaining usable as a compact five-seater. It offers good value in its segment for buyers who want everyday usability with genuine pace.

5 seatsHatchbackGasoline5-star safety7.2 L/100kmAWD

Car B

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Combining compact 5-seat practicality with standout performance and efficiency for its class, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is quick without being thirsty. It suits buyers who want a rapid, city-friendly performance car with solid safety standing and reasonable running costs.

5 seatsHatchbackGasoline5-star safety421 hp

Why compared more powercomparison picksame body typesame powertrainsame ranking profilesame seats

Usage fit

Family 61 / 63

City 56 / 53

Budget / value 59 / 55

Road trip 46 / 41

Performance 39 / 36

Cargo 18 / 20

Practical 49 / 50

Premium 50 / 55

Winter 66 / 26

Scores out of 100. Blue = Audi S3 · Orange = Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Specs side-by-side

Spec Audi S3 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Values are representative — confirm for your market and trim.

Pros & cons

Audi S3

AWD traction boosts confidence in winter and wet conditions
Quick acceleration for effortless merging and passing (0–100 km/h in 4.8 s)
Efficient for its class at 7.2 L/100km combined
Good value in its segment for an AWD performance compact
Small 325 L trunk limits cargo-heavy trips
Not focused on hardcore performance driving or track use
No hybrid or EV option for maximum fuel savings
Price around 44,000 may exceed strict economy-car budgets

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Very quick for its segment: 0–100 km/h in 4.0 s boosts confidence for overtakes and ramps
Efficient for its class at 7.5 L/100 km given the 421 hp output
Compact size suits city driving and parking
Seats 5 with a usable 370 L trunk for everyday family needs
Front-wheel drive may limit traction in slippery conditions or hard launches versus AWD rivals
370 L trunk and conventional trunk layout reduce cargo flexibility compared with hatchbacks
Compact footprint means less rear space than larger family sedans
Premium pricing relative to mainstream compacts, even if performance value is strong

Verdict

Pick Audi S3 if…

Best fuel economy

Audi S3 uses 7.2 L/100km vs 7.5 — a meaningful saving if you cover high mileage.

Pick Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG if…

More power

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG puts out 421 hp vs 310 — meaningfully quicker and more confident on motorways.

Usage fit

Specs side-by-side

Pros & cons

Audi S3

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG

Verdict

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