Audi A3 SE TECHNIK cars

What is the Audi A3 SE Technik?

Technik is a name that floats around the Audi range in various formats, sometimes attached to the SE trim, and it signifies an affordable and good-value model.

Compared with the SE model, an SE Technik car has a few essential bits of kit that make living with the A3 even more joyous, but it was only around £750 more than the SE when new.

SE Technik is a trim level that was available on the third-generation 8V model, sold between 2013 and 2020, so while you won’t be getting the latest generation of this car, you’ll be getting a very good deal.

– Read our Audi A3 review

What are the Audi A3 SE Technik specs?

A few different engine options were available depending on model years, with older models coming with either a 110hp 1.6-litre or 150hp 2.0-litre diesel engine.

There’s an ‘ultra’ version of the 1.6 TDI that's extremely efficient and free to tax (for pre-2017 models, before the rules changed).

Newer cars also had some petrol options, including a 116hp 1.0-litre unit and a 150hp 1.5-litre engine.

Later on, Audi renamed its engines, so cars like the 30 TFSI and 30 TDI have less power, but models like the 35 TFSI come with more.

Used Audi A3 SE Technik features and equipment

Upgrades that come with the SE Technik model include rear parking sensors, cruise control, sat-nav, a colour display between the instrument gauges, and model-specific alloy wheels with 15 spokes – they look pretty eye-catching.

That’s on top of the standard equipment you get on the entry-level SE model, which includes a multimedia system with digital radio and Bluetooth.

Some drivers specified optional extras like xenon or LED headlights, keyless entry, a Bang & Olufsen sound system and automatic lights and wipers, so watch out for these if they’re important to you.

Where the A3 SE Technik sits in the Audi range

The A3 SE Technik sits one step above the entry-level SE model, but we think it’s well worth the upgrade and the difference in cost when bought used should be minimal.

Higher specifications include mid-range Sport models and desirable S line cars, which have a more aggressive bodykit.

You can also pick from performance S3 and RS3 versions, but these can be expensive to run and aren’t as affordable to buy as the SE Technik.