Audi S3
Purchase price from $52,000
Expert rating
2 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
C
Car and Driver
Car and Driver has long regarded the Audi S3 as a benchmark compact performance sedan. In recent instrumented testing, the 2.0-liter turbo-four and Quattro all-wheel drive delivered a 0–60 mph run of about 4.5 seconds with the dual-clutch S tronic. Editors praise the S3 for its gut-punching acceleration, tenacious grip in all weather, and an interior that borrows materials and finish from Audis far higher up the range. The virtual cockpit and MMI infotainment are also singled out as class-leading. However, the review notes the steering is light and numb, and the chassis favors safe understeer rather than the playful rotation of rivals like the Civic Type R or even the mechanically related Golf R. As a daily driver, the S3 is quiet, comfortable, and surprisingly efficient on a cruise, which earns it strong livability scores. C/D's verdict: a cultured, rapid compact that values polish over hooliganism — exactly what many buyers in this segment want.
A
Autocar
Autocar's road test positions the Audi S3 as the most mature performer in the hot-compact class. They credit the 2.0-liter TFSI's flexible, lag-free torque delivery and the S tronic's rapid, decisive shifts, plus a chassis that hides its weight well when pressing on. Ride quality — particularly with adaptive suspension in Comfort mode — is noticeably better than the firm-riding Mercedes-AMG A35, and motorway refinement is excellent, with minimal wind and tire noise. Autocar's central complaint is shared with most rivals in this segment: engagement. The all-wheel-drive system is so effective that the car seldom feels adjustable, and the steering offers little feedback. Drivers chasing thrills may find the S3 slightly anodyne compared with a Civic Type R or even a Golf R. The conclusion gives the S3 around 4 out of 5 stars: outstanding as a polished, rapid, four-season compact executive, with the caveat that keener drivers should try its more expressive rivals before buying.
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