Audi S3

Overview: Is the Audi S3 a Good Sport Sedan?

The ability to buy a vehicle that combines elevated performance and day-to-day practicality lies at the heart of the Audi S3. Starting with the luxury-minded A3 platform, Audi added a more powerful engine, standard all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension. These elements create a more engaging behind-the-wheel experience and extra on-road capability.

The S3 first hit American streets for the 2015 model year. After a 2021 hiatus, Audi launched the second generation for the 2022 model year, which continues to this day. The S3 sits above the A3 and below the high-performance RS3. This overview looks exclusively at the S3. Other variants, such as the Audi S3 Sportback and RS3 Sportback, aren’t available in the U.S.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Audi S3 cars for sale.

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Related: How Long Do Audi A3s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Key Features

The Audi S3 offers:

• Compact sedan body style
• Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
• Standard Quattro all-wheel drive
• Sport-tuned suspension with available magnetic ride control

Trims

The Audi S3 is typically offered in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, though not all versions are available for all model years.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The S3 reminds us that Audi engineers are masters at designing a premium cabin in a compact package. It starts with a driver-focused cockpit accompanied by leather upholstery, sport seats, and sophisticated attention to detail. The latest generation boasts Audi's cutting-edge MMI touch infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen that responds to smartphone-like gestures. Despite its compact dimensions, the S3 offers a surprising amount of practicality, with 10.9 cubic feet of trunk space that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats.

Review: Which Years Of Used Audi A3s Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The Audi S3 delivers an exhilarating driving experience that belies its compact size. The current generation's 2.0-liter TFSI engine produces 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, propelling the S3 from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The S3's sport-tuned suspension, precise steering, and various drive modes allow drivers to tailor the car's dynamics to their preferences, whether carving through mountain roads or cruising on the highway.

Safety

The first-generation A3 received a top five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The second generation has yet to be evaluated.

Reviews

There are a modest number of Audi S3 reviews on Kelley Blue Book, but consumers give the first generation a robust average rating of 4.5 out of 5. There's significant praise for its reliability, quality, performance, and styling. At this point, there's insufficient feedback about the second generation.

Learn More: Are Audis Expensive To Maintain?

Audi S3 FAQs

Is an Audi S3 fast?

Yes, the Audi S3 is considered fast for its class. The current generation can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which is impressive for a compact luxury sedan. Thanks to turbocharging, the Audi S3's horsepower is substantial (up to 306 horsepower).

Is the Audi S3 a reliable car?

Audi S3 reliability is an open question. A review of information from NHTSA and reports from carcomplaints.com shows very few problem reports about the S3. Outside of airbag issues with the 2015 A3, there’s no substantial pattern or repeated trouble spots. This may be due to modest sales or genuine reliability. However, like any performance-oriented vehicle, this S3 Audi may require more frequent maintenance than non-performance models. Regular servicing and adherence to recommended maintenance schedules ensure long-term reliability.

Is the Audi S3 turbocharged?

Yes, the Audi S3 is turbocharged. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine across both generations. The turbocharger helps the relatively small engine produce impressive power and torque figures, contributing to the S3's spirited performance.

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