The Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes in sedan and convertible body styles. However, the Mercedes is also available as a coupe. The C-Class cabin is much more upscale and stylish than the A3’s, and it has lots of tech features. Both cars have similar passenger and cargo space, and both provide plenty of powertrain options, though the Mercedes' high-performance models are much more powerful than the Audi's. Though the C-Class is better overall, it's also much more expensive. Some shoppers may find that the A3 is a better value.

The 2020 Audi A3 ranks in the middle of our luxury small car rankings. It has a well-equipped cabin and a range of powerful engine options, but most of its classmates offer more trunk space and earn much better predicted reliability ratings.