Selecting the correct battery for the Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback produced between 2004 and 2013 requires a close look at engine type, presence of Start-Stop functionality, and electrical demands. The wide range of petrol and diesel variants, including performance models like the S3 and RS3, means that battery needs can vary considerably. All of these vehicles rely on either traditional lead-acid or AGM batteries depending on the engine configuration and technology onboard. Choosing the correct one ensures reliable starts, proper power supply to all electronic systems, and long service life.
For most petrol engines without Start-Stop systems—such as the 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TFSI, and 1.6 FSI—the required battery capacity falls between 50 and 65 Ah, with cold cranking amperage ranging from 420 to 640 A. These engines are relatively light on battery demands and function well with standard lead-acid batteries. Examples of suitable models include Bosch S40 02, Exide EA530, Lucas LP079, and Varta C22 for the lower-capacity variants, while higher-capacity options like Bosch S50 05, Exide EA640, and Varta D15 are better matched with the 1.6 and 2.0-liter petrol engines. These are just example models and should be cross-checked with the vehicle’s original battery size and specifications.
Vehicles with Start-Stop systems, including some versions of the 1.2 TSI and 2.0 TDI, require AGM batteries due to their higher cycle life and improved tolerance for repeated starting. In these cases, the recommended battery capacity is around 70 to 72 Ah, and the cold cranking amperage should be between 720 and 760 A. Examples of AGM batteries that match these requirements include Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK700, Lucas LF096, and Varta E39. Installing a standard lead-acid battery in a car equipped with Start-Stop technology may lead to premature failure and electronic issues.
Diesel versions without Start-Stop—such as the 1.9 TDI, 2.0 TDI, and 2.0 TDI quattro—require slightly larger batteries due to the higher starting power needed in cold weather and the engine’s compression characteristics. These typically use 74–78 Ah batteries with cold cranking amperage between 680 and 780 A. Suitable lead-acid examples include Bosch S40 08, Exide EA770, Lucas LP096, and Varta E11. Choosing a high-quality battery with sufficient reserve capacity is especially important if the car is used in colder climates or for long commutes.
Performance models like the RS3 quattro present even more demanding electrical profiles. The RS3 requires an AGM battery with a capacity of 80–82 Ah and a cold cranking amperage of up to 800 A. These vehicles are equipped with a higher number of electronic systems, including performance tuning modules, dynamic lighting, and advanced infotainment units, all of which benefit from a stable power supply. Example batteries for the RS3 include Bosch S5A 11, Exide EK800, and Varta F21. Again, these are examples and compatibility should be confirmed with your vehicle’s specifications.
A fun fact for Audi enthusiasts is that the A3 II shares its platform with the Volkswagen Golf V and Seat Leon II, meaning many battery specifications are similar across the group. However, trim levels, optional equipment, and engine tuning can change the power requirements. That’s why it’s always best to verify your battery choice not only by capacity and current but also by the dimensions, terminal layout, and mounting type.
In summary, selecting the correct battery for the Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback depends on a combination of factors, including whether the car uses Start-Stop, the engine size, and the power demand of its accessories. Lead-acid batteries suit most models, while AGM options are necessary for those with Start-Stop systems or higher performance variants. Picking a battery that aligns with the manufacturer’s specifications ensures not only optimal engine starting but also the longevity of the car’s electronic systems.
Audi A3 in version II (8P) Sportback was produced in the years 2004 – 2013. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Audi A3 (2004-2013):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – petrol engines:
- 1.2 TSI
- 1.4 TFSI
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB500 | 50 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA530 | 53 Ah 540 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 012 | 52 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS012 | 58 Ah 520 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic C22 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C30 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – petrol engines:
- 1.6
- 1.6 E-Power
- 1.6 FSI
- 1.8 TFSI
- 1.8 TFSI quattro
- 2.0
- 2.0 FSI
- 2.0 TFSI
- 2.0 TFSI quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP027 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – petrol engines:
- 3.2 V6 quattro
- S3 quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – petrol engines:
- 1.2 TSI – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – petrol engines:
- RS3 quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK800 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK820 | 82 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – diesel engines:
- 1.6 TDI
- 1.9 TDI
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.0 TDI 16V
- 2.0 TDI 16V quattro
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
Audi A3 II (8P) Sportback – diesel engines:
- 1.6 TDI – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 TDI – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 TDI 16V – with Start-Stop
- 2.0 TDI 16V quattro – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Audi A3 , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!