Audi enhanced the core excellence of the S3 through several subtle modifications underneath the surface.
This car acts as a fresh start. Amidst our constant struggle with excess and deficiency, the 2025 Audi S3 strikes a perfect balance. It offers outstanding solutions to numerous issues. Additionally, recent subtle improvements under its hood—including significant components borrowed from the larger RS3—enhance its enjoyment factor without compromising the comfort and practicality that have always made it attractive.
Even driving the S3 As you move around town, the enhancements catch your eye right away. Audi finally upped its steering game, moving past the overly light, vague feel that’s characterized its cars for years now. Same deal with the brakes. The pedal is basically perfect, firm and with just the right amount of travel. It’s the first time I’ve ever thought about the brake feel in an Audi.
| Quick Specs | 2025 Audi S3 |
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder |
| Output | 328 Kilowatts / 400 Newton-Meters |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.4 Seconds |
| Curb Weight | 3,549 Pounds |
| Starting Price / Priced as Shown | $49,995 / $60,840 |
The optional 19-inch wheels make the low-speed ride feel somewhat harsh due to solid bumps, yet the damping remains impressive. In this particular model, we have the additional $1,100 S Sport Package which includes adaptive dampers; however, these aren't an option for the basic S3 version. Although I would prefer more variation across different driving settings, their handling of various road conditions was commendable.
Like my coworker Chris Rosales mentioned in his initial test-drive of the S3, Audi designers completely revamped how their vehicles handle, and the outcomes are impressive. There’s still more to praise though.
The S3 gets Audi’s "Torque Splitter" rear differential from the RS3. Built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform, which has been used in models like the Golf for more than a decade, the S3 can direct up to 50% of its power to the rear wheels. However, with dual mult plate clutches within the differential, this vehicle distributes that power between the two rear wheels as needed.
Advantages: Perfect Size, Adequate Power, Torque Distributor Adds Enjoyment, Impressive Cabin
In the updated Dynamic Plus driving mode, where stability control switches to "Sport," the differential really showcases its capabilities. Although calling the Torque Splitter might sound cooler when spoken with a Bavarian accent, it doesn’t transform the S3 into a drifting beast. Instead, by applying extra power to the outer rear wheel during turns, it significantly enhances agility. You can accelerate sooner while taking corners, causing the car to rotate gracefully. Given how consistently stable yet somewhat subdued this model has been, the addition of the torque splitter brings out fantastic personality traits.
Should the S3 detect excessive oversteer, perhaps due to driving on a slick surface, it has the capability to apply extra power to an inner wheel, thereby helping to realign the vehicle. This sophisticated system is employed effectively by Audi for this purpose.
In 2025, Audi introduced some changes to the exterior that didn’t quite win me over. While it remains an attractive vehicle, the black, two-dimensional Audi logos included with the $1,650 Black Optic package appear somewhat inexpensive. Given how strikingly good the S3 looks in vibrant shades like blue, red, and yellow, opting for plain old white seems rather uninspired. At best, though, this understated color helps the S3 mix seamlessly within typical traffic flow.
On the inside, it’s quintessential Audi done right. While newer Audis may skimp on interior quality, the S3 doesn’t compromise here; boasting high-quality materials and excellent ergonomic design. Every button offers a pleasing "click," and even though this model has an outdated infotainment setup, it remains refreshingly simple to use. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster still leads the pack when it comes to such technology, and thankfully, you get actual buttons for controlling the temperature rather than touch-sensitive ones.
Drawbacks: Firm Suspension with 19-Inch Wheels, Higher Priced Compared to VW Golf R
A special nod should be given to the seating, which boasts excellent quilting and provides proper support throughout. Although the rear seats are somewhat tight, this can be overlooked if you're primarily carrying children.
Fans of VW and Audi models will recognize the powertrain, which continues to impress. This setup features the well-known EA888 2.0-liter inline-four engine coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In this iteration of the S3, you'll find an increase in horsepower from 306 to 328 hp, whereas torque stays robust at 295 lb-ft.
It's intriguing that this engine has a higher idle speed compared to most contemporary cars, typically ranging between 900-1000 rpm. If you handle the transmission as you would with a traditional automatic, you'll find yourself surging forward quite abruptly when starting off. Getting accustomed to this takes some time, but after you're underway, there aren’t any peculiarities associated with the dual-clutch system.
When you switch to its sportier settings, the engine takes on a nearly quintuple cylinder sound characterised by an evident turbo whine. Power comes through robustly from lower RPMs all the way up to around 7,000 rpm. Additionally, the dual-clutch transmission performs exceptionally well during shifts both up and down gears. Even though the paddle shifters continue to have that unsatisfying plastic texture, engaging manual mode adds extra enjoyment.
Certainly, the main query regarding the S3 is whether it justifies the higher price compared to the Golf R. Given how underwhelming the Mk8 has been, my answer would be yes. However, we have not had an opportunity to test-drive the updated Mk8.5 Golf R, which corrects numerous issues present in its predecessor and receives the same increase in horsepower as the Audi, along with the added feature of the fancy rear differential. Additionally, one must consider the convenience provided by the S3’s back hatch for everyday usability.
However, the Audi doesn't cost significantly more than the Golf R, starting at $49,995 compared to the Volkswagen's $48,325. If you're looking for the desired version of the S3 though, the mid-range Premium Plus trim will set you back $52,395; this requires an additional $1,100 for the S Sport Pack to get the adaptive dampers included as standard on the Golf. Our test car was a fully-loaded Prestige model priced at $60,840 with all options selected. While it offers plenty of premium features, they aren’t essential additions.
We'll take the revamped Golf R for a test drive shortly, after which we can provide a more informed assessment. However, my recommendation remains: consider both options. I believe the S3 could well justify the additional cost.
Audi has excelled in maintaining the strengths of the S3 while refining the driving dynamics to add more character to the vehicle. Don’t dismiss this car; you do so at your risk. It’s a perfect sporty saloon.
Competitors
- Acura Integra Type S
- BMW M235i Gran Coupe
- BMW M240i Coupe
- Mercedes-AMG CLA35
- Volkswagen Golf R
More Audi Reviews
- The 2025 Audi RS3 Proves It’s Even More Impressive: A Test Drive Review
- The 2025 Audi S3 Is Simply Impressive: A First-Drive Assessment
| 2025 Audi S3 | |
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder |
| Output | 328 Horsepower / 295 Pound-Feet |
| Transmission | Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Speed 0-60 MPH | 4.4 Seconds (est.) |
| Maximum speed | 155 MPH |
| Weight | 3,549 Pounds |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Cargo Volume | 8.3 Cubic Feet |
| Base Price | $45,995 |
| As-Tested Price | $60,840 |
| On Sale | Now |