Audi S3
Used Car Review

Overview

The Audi S3 is the hot hatch that refuses to compromise on either front. The Audi S3 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This compact performance car delivers supercar-quick acceleration wrapped in a sophisticated, understated package that won’t attract unwanted attention. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want blistering pace without sacrificing practicality or comfort.

The S3 stands apart from rivals like the Mercedes A-Class AMG A35 and BMW M135i with its refined approach to performance. Where some hot hatches shout about their capabilities, the S3 whispers confidence through its subtle styling and premium interior. The quattro all-wheel drive system means you get traction in all conditions, making it usable year-round. Inside, you’ll find the same high-quality materials and advanced technology that define the regular A3 range.

On the road, the S3 feels effortlessly fast rather than frantically quick. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivers its power smoothly and predictably, making it easy to exploit the performance safely. The ride quality remains civilised for daily driving, yet the chassis has enough composure to handle spirited drives on country roads. While it commands a premium price over less powerful alternatives, you’re investing in a car that combines genuine performance credentials with Audi’s reputation for build quality and refinement.

How Does the Audi S3 Drive?

The Audi S3 is built around a potent 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower in its latest form. This translates to a 0-60mph time of just 4.7 seconds, putting it firmly in sports car territory. The power delivery is impressively linear, with strong torque available from low revs making overtaking effortless. The standard seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox shifts quickly and smoothly, whether you’re cruising in automatic mode or taking control with the paddle shifters.

What sets the S3 apart is its quattro all-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional traction and stability. Unlike front-wheel drive rivals, the S3 can put all its power down without wheelspin or torque steer. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence through corners. The adaptive suspension strikes an impressive balance between comfort and control. In Comfort mode, it soaks up bumps admirably for daily driving. Switch to Dynamic mode, and it transforms into a focused performance hatchback that encourages spirited driving on twisty roads.

Inside the Audi S3: Comfort & Features

The S3’s cockpit combines athletic design with unexpected comfort, establishing itself as a benchmark for hot hatch interiors. The cabin feels genuinely premium, with high-quality materials throughout and excellent build quality. The sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys. The driving position is spot-on, with plenty of adjustment to suit drivers of different sizes. The flat-bottomed steering wheel feels perfectly sized and positioned.

Technology is a strong point, with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster as standard. The 10.1-inch central touchscreen runs the latest MMI infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Bang & Olufsen sound system available on higher trims delivers exceptional audio quality. Road and wind noise are well suppressed, creating a refined environment that’s more mature than many rivals. Climate control is standard, and the cabin feels airy thanks to good visibility all around. The S3’s interior successfully combines sports car excitement with luxury car refinement.

The Audi S3 is an outstanding choice if you want serious performance wrapped in a sophisticated, understated package. It successfully combines supercar-quick acceleration with luxury car refinement, making it equally suited to daily commuting and weekend thrills. The quattro all-wheel drive system provides exceptional traction and confidence, while the premium interior feels genuinely special every time you get in.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi S3?

The S3’s running costs demand respect, yet the thrilling performance justifies every penny spent. Real-world fuel economy typically ranges from 28-32 mpg, which is respectable for a 310 horsepower car. Insurance groups are high, typically falling into groups 42-45, so younger drivers will face substantial premiums. Road tax is based on CO2 emissions, which range from 185-198g/km depending on the variant.

The purchase price is the biggest consideration, with new S3s starting from around £40,000. This premium reflects the sophisticated quattro drivetrain, high-quality interior, and advanced technology. Depreciation is relatively gentle thanks to strong residual values, helped by Audi’s desirable brand image. Servicing costs are higher than mainstream brands but reasonable for the premium sector. Financing options through car finance plans can make the S3 more accessible, spreading the cost over manageable monthly payments. Overall, while not cheap to run, the S3 offers good value considering its performance and refinement.

Is the Audi S3 Practical for Everyday Use?

Despite its performance focus, the S3 remains surprisingly practical for everyday use. The 325-litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating a weekly shop or weekend luggage for two people. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, though the opening is slightly restricted by the hatchback design. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage cubbies for phones, wallets, and other daily essentials.

Rear passenger space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit tight on longer trips. The middle seat is best reserved for children due to the raised floor. For couples or small families, the S3 offers enough space for most situations while being much easier to park than larger performance cars. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for city driving, while the refined ride quality ensures it’s equally at home on longer motorway trips. Compared to other used Audi cars in the range, the S3 strikes an excellent balance between performance and everyday usability.

The Audi S3 combines thrilling hot hatch dynamics with the refinement expected of a premium sports car. It packages genuine supercar-quick acceleration, advanced quattro all-wheel drive, and luxury car build quality into a compact, practical form. While running costs are high, the S3’s combination of everyday usability and weekend thrills is hard to match.

You choose the S3 because you want a performance car that doesn’t compromise on comfort or quality. Its sophisticated approach to speed, combined with Audi’s reputation for reliability and strong residual values, makes it an excellent long-term ownership proposition. For drivers seeking the ultimate balance between performance and practicality, especially those considering options with bad credit car finance, the S3 represents the pinnacle of the understated hot hatch genre.