Introduction
The 2025 Audi S3 has arrived with a few key upgrades—more power, a sharper chassis, and a slightly fresher look. But does it still offer that perfect mix of performance, luxury, and everyday usability? I took it for a spin in Oceanside, California, to find out. Spoiler alert: It’s still a blast, but not without a few quirks.
Table of Contents
Exterior: Modern Tweaks, But a Bit Softer
The S3’s design refresh is subtle, but you’ll notice a few key changes. The front grille is slightly wider and less aggressive than before, and if you go for the Black Optic package, you get a blacked-out Audi logo, mirror caps, and window trim. The headlights now feature an updated LED signature that looks sharper at night.
Standard models come with 18-inch wheels, but this one has the new 19-inch set wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 summer tires. They not only fill out the wheel arches better but also improve grip. The rear gets a sportier diffuser and quad exhaust tips, though the exhaust note remains on the tame side.
While it still looks like a proper sport sedan, the design feels a bit toned down compared to its predecessor. It’s cleaner and more mature, but some might miss the edgier look of the previous version.
Also, Read about It’s Main Competetion BMW 330i
Interior: Mostly Premium, But Not Perfect
Inside, the S3 does a great job blending sportiness and comfort. This test car came with the Prestige package, which adds fine Nappa leather seats with diamond stitching. Standard models get leatherette with suede inserts, which still look and feel great. The bucket seats are supportive, and the cabin layout is ergonomic and driver-focused.
The rear seats are decent for a compact sedan—there’s enough knee room, but headroom gets tight if you’re over six feet tall. Rear passengers do get their own air vents, a third climate zone, and USB-C ports, which is nice.
Tech-wise, the S3 keeps its 10.1-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The haptic feedback works well, and thankfully, Audi has kept physical climate controls. One small gripe: the glossy black trim around the center console picks up fingerprints like crazy.
Storage is another weak spot. The center console is small, and the door pockets aren’t that generous either. Visibility is mostly good, but the thick C-pillars create a blind spot. Luckily, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard.
Performance: More Power, More Fun
Engine and Transmission
Under the hood, the S3’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder now makes 328 horsepower (22 more than before) while keeping 295 lb-ft of torque. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic has been retuned for quicker shifts, and Audi has added a preloaded turbo system to reduce lag.
City Driving
In normal driving, the S3 is smooth and refined. The dual-clutch gearbox has none of the low-speed jerkiness you sometimes get in performance cars, and the adaptive dampers soak up bumps well. Braking is strong and progressive, with none of the grabbiness that can make stop-and-go traffic annoying.
Acceleration and Handling
Audi claims 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, but my best run was 4.56 seconds on a less-than-perfect surface. Still, it feels quick, especially mid-range, where the turbo spools up fast.
The big upgrade is the new torque-vectoring rear differential borrowed from the RS3. It can send 100% of available rear torque to one wheel, helping rotate the car through corners. The result? Way less understeer, more confidence on twisty roads, and a more playful character overall.
Steering remains light but precise, and grip levels are excellent thanks to the updated suspension geometry. The only downside? The exhaust still sounds muted, which might disappoint those wanting more drama.
It’s a Drastic Upgrade prom 2015 Audi s3 as well as 2016 Audi S3
Ride Comfort and Cabin Noise
For a performance sedan, the S3 rides well. The adaptive dampers do a great job smoothing out rough patches, making it comfortable enough for daily use. However, road noise is a bit more noticeable than expected for a luxury-branded car. If you’re coming from a Volkswagen GTI, you might not feel a huge jump in refinement.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More power and quicker shifts | Road noise is higher than expected |
| Torque vectoring makes handling sharper | Some cheap interior materials |
| Adaptive dampers keep the ride comfortable | Exhaust note is still too quiet |
| Standard safety tech is solid | Middle rear seat is cramped |
| Physical climate controls (a rare win) | Limited center console storage |
FAQs
Is the Audi S3 four-wheel drive?
Yes, the Audi S3 comes with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which effectively distributes power between the front and rear wheels for better grip and performance.
Are all Audi S3 models quattro?
Yes, every Audi S3 model is equipped with the quattro AWD system as standard. Audi does not offer a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version of the S3.
Are Audi S3 models AWD?
Yes, all Audi S3 models feature quattro AWD, ensuring better traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Are Audi S3 models expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs for an Audi S3 can be higher than mainstream cars due to its performance components, turbocharged engine, and advanced AWD system. Regular servicing, premium fuel, and potential repairs can add up, but costs can be managed with proper maintenance and extended warranties.
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Performer
The 2025 Audi S3 sticks to what it does best—offering a blend of fun, comfort, and practicality. The extra power and sharper handling make it an even better driver’s car, while the subtle styling tweaks keep it looking fresh.
That said, it’s not without flaws. The exhaust note is underwhelming, road noise could be lower, and some interior materials don’t feel quite as premium as they should at this price.
Still, if you’re looking for a small performance sedan that balances excitement with everyday usability, the S3 remains a top choice. It goes up against the BMW M235i Gran Coupe and Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, but for those who love Quattro grip and Audi’s understated cool factor, the S3 delivers.
Author- Ayush
