Audi enhanced the core excellence of the S3 through several beneath-the-hood modifications.
This car acts as a fresh start in a world filled with extremes—from having too much to lacking enough—the 2025 Audi S3 strikes a perfect balance. It provides excellent solutions for numerous concerns. Additionally, recent subtle improvements under the hood, including key components borrowed from its high-performance sibling, the RS3, enhance the driving experience without compromising the comfort and usability that have long made this model attractive.
Even driving the S3 As you move around town, the enhancements become readily apparent. 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 Horsepower / 295 Pound-Feet Torque |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.4 Seconds |
| Curb Weight | 3,549 Pounds |
| Starting Price / Price as Tested | $49,995 / $60,840 |
The optional 19-inch wheels make the low-speed ride feel quite bumpy, yet the damping remains impressive. In this particular model, the $1,100 S Sport Package was included, featuring adaptive dampers which aren't an option for the standard S3 trim level. Although I would have liked more variation across different driving modes, their performance when navigating various road conditions deserves praise.
As my associate Chris Rosales mentioned in his initial test drive of the S3, Audi’s engineering team significantly reconsidered how their vehicles handle, and the outcomes are impressive. Plus, there’s more to come that makes it even better.
The S3 borrows Audi’s "Torque Splitter" rear differential from the RS3. Built on Volkswagen’s front-wheel-drive MQB platform—which has been used in models like the Golf for more than a decade—the S3 can direct up to fifty percent of its power to the rear wheels. However, with two multidisc clutches located on each side of the differential, the car distributes this power selectively between the rear wheels.
Advantages: Perfect Size, Adequate Power, Torque Distributor Adds Enjoyment, Impressive Cabin
In the updated Dynamic Plus driving mode, where stability control shifts into "Sport," the differential truly shines. Although the Torque Splitter—a term that sounds far cooler when pronounced with a Bavarian accent—does not transform the S3 into a drifting beast, it enhances agility by over-revving the outer rear wheel during turns. This allows for earlier acceleration through corners, resulting in smooth rotations. Given how consistently stable yet somewhat subdued this vehicle feels, the addition of ze torque splitter brings out wonderful personality traits.
When the S3 detects excessive oversteer, such as on a slick surface, it can selectively increase speed on an inner wheel to bring the vehicle back into alignment. This sophisticated system is employed effectively by Audi for this purpose.
In 2025, Audi introduced some external modifications that didn’t entirely win me over. The vehicle remains visually appealing, yet the flat-looking black 2D Audi logos included with the optional $1,650 Black Optic package appear somewhat inexpensive. Given how strikingly beautiful the S3 looks in vibrant shades like blue, red, and yellow, choosing this plain white color seems rather uninspired. Still, the monochrome hue might make it easier to merge into traffic unnoticed.
Inside, it embodies what makes an Audi appealing in all the right ways. Unlike some newer Audis which may skimp on interior finishes, the S3 remains true to form with high-quality materials and excellent ergonomic design. Every button provides a reassuring "click" when pressed. This particular model’s outdated infotainment setup is refreshingly simple. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster still leads the pack in terms of functionality and style, and thankfully, it retains tangible climate control buttons as well.
Drawbacks: Uncomfortable Ride with 19-Inch Wheels, Pricier Compared to Volkswagen Golf R
A special nod should be given to the seating, which boasts impressive quilting and provides excellent support where needed. Although the rear seats are somewhat tight, this can be overlooked if they won’t frequently accommodate grown passengers, making it a worthwhile trade-off.
Fans of VW and Audi models will recognize this engine setup, which continues to perform exceptionally well. This vehicle features the widely used EA88Z 2.0-liter inline-four coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In the new model, the S3 sees an increase in output from 306 to 328 horsepower, although the torque stays robust at 295 pound-feet.
What's intriguing is that the engine runs at quite a high idle speed for today’s standards, typically between 900-1000 rpm. If you approach shifting gears as you would with a regular automatic, you'll find yourself accelerating surprisingly fast when starting off. This takes some getting accustomed to; however, after you're underway, there aren’t any peculiarities associated with the dual-clutch transmission.
When you engage one of its sportier driving modes, the engine takes on an almost five-cylinder-like character with noticeable turbo whistling. As usual, torque comes on strongly from lower RPMs all the way past 7,000 rpm. Gear shifts performed via the dual-clutch transmission are impressively precise during both acceleration and deceleration. Although the paddle shifters continue to have a cheap plastic feel, it remains enjoyable to switch to manual mode for enhanced control.
Certainly, the main query surrounding the S3 is whether it justifies the higher cost compared to the Golf R. Given how underwhelming the Mk8 version 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 offers similar increased power along with an advanced rear differential. Additionally, one must consider the convenience provided by the S3’s hatchback design 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. Nevertheless, the S3 variant you likely desire is the mid-range Premium Plus, priced at $52,395, though 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 with all options, totaling $60,840. While it includes plenty of premium features, they aren’t essential additions.
We'll take the revised Golf R for a test drive shortly, allowing us to provide a more informed assessment. However, my recommendation remains: consider both options. I believe the S3 may well justify the additional cost.
Audi’s done a great job here of preserving what the S3 already did well while honing the driving dynamics to imbue the car with more personality. Overlook this car at your peril. It’s an ideal sports sedan.
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 to Be Even More Impressive: A First-Drive Evaluation
- The 2025 Audi S3 Is Simply Impressive: A First Drive Review
| 2025 Audi S3 | |
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder |
| Output | 328 Horsepower / 295 Pound-Feet Torque |
| 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 |