Audi S3 (2013 – 2020) Review
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Audi S3 (2013 – 2020) At A Glance
Powered by smooth 2.0 TFSI engine with 300PS. Quattro four-wheel drive means superb traction. Lighter weight helps economy with an official 40mpg.
Subtle rather than overtly sporty looks.
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback models are among the very best family hatchbacks on the market so it makes sense that a performance variant is available in the form of the S3. It too is offered as both a three-door and a five-door Sportback, and it’s as refined and well put together as the everyday A3 models.
It doesn't look like high-performance hot hatch at a glance however. The only real giveaway is the quad rear exhausts, as even the red 'S' badging is available on lesser S Line models - but that sets it apart from cars like the aggressively styled Vauxhall Astra VXR and leaves room for a more overtly styled RS3 model in coming years.
The big difference, of course, is in the performance the S3 delivers. Power comes from a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine familiar from the likes of the latest Volkswagen Golf GTI, but with power cranked up to 300PS and torque to 380Nm across a broad rev range. The result is excellent performance – 0-62mph takes 4.8 seconds with a the S Tronic gearbox specified.
It takes a smidge longer to get to 62mph with the standard manual gearbox – 5.2 seconds – but all models, whether three-door or five-door, manual or automatic, are limited to a 155mph top speed. Despite impressive performance the fuel economy is good – S Tronic models manage 40.9mpg on the combined cycle with emissions of 159g/km.
As with all performance Audi models the S3 features quattro all-wheel drive and it works to maintain traction and keep the car planted and stable on twisting roads, whether at high speeds or when accelerating out of slower turns or roundabouts. It offers enjoyable performance and handling but it feels safe and controllable, which is a great blend for a family-sized hot hatchback.
It’s a little firmer than the A3 but that’s an expected compromise when buying a performance car and it’s not at all uncomfortable. It’s as practical as the A3 on which it is based, and so offers a useable everyday package that’s easy to drive on the motorway and around town but that’s enjoyable when you get to your favourite road.
Reviews for Audi S3 (2013 – 2020)'s top 3 rivals
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Audi S3 (2013 – 2020) handling and engines
- Engines range from 2.0 TFSI 300 Saloon to 50 TFSI 300 S tronic Sportback
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–39 mpg
With 300PS on tap and a healthy torque spread the S3 is a very swift car indeed. 0-62mph takes as little as 4.8 seconds in the case of the three-door S Tronic, but even the heavier five-door with a manual transmission will perform the same sprint in an impressive 5.3 seconds. All models have an electronically limited 155mph top speed.
Handling is excellent. The steering can be adjusted to suit personal tastes but regardless of the setting it’s crisp and gives a decent amount of feedback. The suspension, while firm enough to keep the car level and stable through bends, offers good ride comfort and the quattro all-wheel drive system provides great traction whether cornering at high speeds or accelerating out of tight corners.
Peak power is a hefty 300PS and peak torque is 380Nm, which is available from 1800rpm right the way through to 5000rpm. That means the engine is very responsive almost regardless of the selected gear – great for lazily passing cars on the motorway. It also makes the S3 quite forgiving if you pick the wrong gear when threading together the corners on a twisting road.
The six-speed manual gearbox is fairly smooth and precise and there is also a six-speed S Tronic gearbox. Again, it’s smooth and swift to change up or down through the gears whether the car is being driven hard or it’s simply on a trundle to the local shops in a busy town.
Despite prodigious power the S3 has impressive economy. The most frugal versions of the S3 are those with the S Tronic gearbox which manage 40.9mpg on the combined cycle regardless of the number of doors – emissions are 159g/km. The manual versions are close behind with 40.4mpg and 162g/km.
The 2.0-litre TFSI engine is a four-cylinder in the latest S3 so while performance is very good there’s a little less in the way of dramatic sound – the previous S3 had a five-cylinder engine with a more pronounced burble. That said, the current car does sound good, with muted pops and burbles when changing gear and a throaty roar at higher engine speeds.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TFSI 300 Hatch | 40 mpg | - | 162 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 S tronic Convertible | 39 mpg | - | 165 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 S tronic Hatch | 41 mpg | - | 159 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 S tronic Saloon | 40 mpg | 4.9 s | 160 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 S tronic Sportback | 41 mpg | 4.9 s | 159 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 Saloon | 40 mpg | 5.3 s | 164 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 300 Sportback | 40 mpg | 5.3 s | 162 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 Hatch | 40 mpg | 5.2 s | 162 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 S tronic Convertible | 42 mpg | 5.1 s | 156 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 S tronic Hatch | 44 mpg | 4.5 s | 146 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 S tronic Saloon | 44 mpg | 4.6 s | 151 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 S tronic Sportback | 44 mpg | 4.6 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 Saloon | 40 mpg | 5.3 s | 163 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI 310 Sportback | 40 mpg | 5.3 s | 162 g/km |
| 50 TFSI 300 S tronic Sportback | 33–53 mpg | 4.1–4.7 s | 158–194 g/km |
| 50 TFSI S tronic Convertible | 39 mpg | 5.2 s | 165 g/km |
| 50 TFSI S tronic Saloon | 41 mpg | 4.7 s | 158 g/km |
| S3 2.0 TFSI 300 Hatch | 40 mpg | 5.2 s | 162 g/km |
| S3 2.0 TFSI 300 S tronic | 41 mpg | 4.8 s | 159 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Audi S3 (2013 – 2020)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
75%
Real MPG
21–39 mpg
MPGs submitted
214
Audi S3 (2013 – 2020) interior
- Boot space is 285–1180 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4237–4469 mm |
| Width | 1960–1966 mm |
| Height | 1388–1437 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2595–2637 mm |
The cabin in the S3 is very much like that of the A3 or A3 Sportback on which it is based, but with sports seats and higher quality trim materials – velvet leather and fine nappa leather are standard fit while an Alcantara and leather combo is offered as a no cost option. Those who want something a little more luxurious can equip diamond quilted S Sports seats.
Space in the back is decent too though accessing the rear seats is obviously more tricky in the three-door as opposed to the Sportback, which offers 35mm more legroom than the three-door. The boot, regardless of whether you choose the Sportback or three-door, is a good size and shape. The capacity in litres is 325 for the S3 and 340 litres for the S3 Sportback and can be expanded to 1060 or 1185 litres respectively.
Standard equipment includes MMI radio with a folding infotainment screen, iPod connectivity and Bluetooth while the options list is, in typical Audi fashion, very broad. Extras include all-LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and keyless entry/start.
Audi S3 (2013 – 2020) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4237–4469 mm |
| Width | 1960–1966 mm |
| Height | 1388–1437 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2595–2637 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1395–1665 kg |
| Boot Space | 285–1180 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 9000–18000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £30,980–£46,285 |
| Insurance Groups | 24–46 |
| Road Tax Bands | F–J |
| Official MPG | 33.2–53.3 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until September 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| RS3 TFSI Quattro 400 S tronic 5dr | £46,285 | 33.2 mpg | 4.1 s |
On sale until August 2021
| Cabriolet | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 50 TFSI Quattro 300ps S tronic 2dr | £42,095 | 38.7 mpg | 5.2 s |
On sale until November 2020
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 50 TFSI Quattro 300 Black Edition S tronic 5dr | £37,615 | 40.9 mpg | 4.7 s |
| S3 50 TFSI Quattro 300 S tronic 5dr | £37,020 | 53.3 mpg | 4.7 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 50 TFSI Quattro 300 Black Edition S tronic 4dr | £39,660 | 40.9 mpg | 4.7 s |
| S3 50 TFSI Quattro 300ps S tronic 4dr | £38,110 | 40.9 mpg | 4.7 s |
On sale until April 2019
| Cabriolet | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310ps S tronic 2dr | £42,095 | 41.5 mpg | 5.1 s |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 3dr | £33,505 | 40.4 mpg | 5.2 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 5dr | £34,125 | 40.4 mpg | 5.3 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition 3dr | £35,055 | 40.4 mpg | 5.2 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition 5dr | £35,675 | 40.4 mpg | 5.3 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 S tronic 3dr | £34,755 | 44.1 mpg | 4.5 s |
| S3 2.0TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 3dr | £36,305 | 44.1 mpg | 4.5 s |
On sale until February 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 S tronic 5dr | £35,805 | 43.5 mpg | 4.6 s |
| S3 2.0TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 5dr | £37,355 | 43.5 mpg | 4.6 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 4dr | £39,660 | 43.5 mpg | 4.6 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310ps S tronic 4dr | £38,110 | 43.5 mpg | 4.6 s |
On sale until March 2018
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310ps 4dr | £36,120 | 39.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310ps Black Edition 4dr | £37,670 | 39.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition 3dr | £34,340 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition 5dr | £34,960 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 3dr | £35,850 | 44.1 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 5dr | £36,470 | 43.5 mpg | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310 Black Edition S tronic 4dr | £38,505 | 43.5 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 310ps Black Edition 4dr | £36,955 | 39.8 mpg | - |
On sale until May 2016
| Cabriolet | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 300ps Nav S tronic 2dr | £39,500 | 39.2 mpg | - |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI 300 Quattro Nav 3dr | £31,235 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI 300 Quattro Nav S tronic 3dr | £32,715 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 300 Nav S tronic 5dr | £33,335 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 300ps Nav 5dr | £31,855 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 300 Nav S tronic 4dr | £35,315 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| S3 2.0 TFSI Quattro 300ps Nav 4dr | £33,835 | 39.8 mpg | - |
On sale until October 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 3dr | £30,980 | 40.4 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 5dr | £31,600 | 40.4 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 S tronic Auto 3dr | £32,460 | 40.9 mpg | 4.8 s |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 S tronic Auto 5dr | £33,080 | 40.9 mpg | 4.9 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 3dr | £33,580 | 39.8 mpg | 5.3 s |
| 2.0 TFSi quattro 300 S tronic Auto 3dr | £35,060 | 40.4 mpg | 4.9 s |
Model History
- February 2013: Audi S3 launched
- December 2013: Audi S3 saloon announced
- June 2014: New Audi S3 Cabriolet ready to order
- November 2016: S3 Black Edition launched
February 2013
Audi S3 launched
The 2.0 TFSI in the Audi S3 is new from the ground up. The four-cylinder unit delivers a constant 380 Nm of torque to the crankshaft between 1,800 and 5,500 rpm. Rated power at 5,500 rpm is 300PS, and the engine redlines at 6,800 rpm.
The S3 delivers impressive performance. The sprint from zero to 60mph is completed in 4.9 seconds when equipped with the S tronic transmission (5.2 seconds with the manual transmission), and top speed is electronically governed at 155mph. Combined fuel economy stands at 40.9mpg (manual 40.4mpg). This corresponds to CO2emissions of 159g/km (162 in the manual version).
The new Audi S3 is equipped as standard with a manual six-speed transmission with a lightweight magnesium case. The optional S tronic transmission boasts high efficiency and a tall sixth gear. The lower gears are short in the interest of dynamics, as is also the case with the manual transmission.
The S tronic comprises two sub-units, with two multi-plate clutches controlling the gears. The large K1 clutch located on the outside directs the torque via a solid shaft to the gear wheels for gears 1, 3 and 5. A hollow shaft rotates around the solid shaft. It is connected to the smaller K2 clutch, which is integrated inside its larger sibling, and which acts on the gear wheels for gears 2, 4 and 6, as well as reverse.
Both transmission structures are continuously active, but only one of them is connected to the engine at any one time. For example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission section. Shifts are performed by switching the clutches. This takes just a few hundredths of a second and happens so quickly and smoothly that it is barely perceptible.
quattro permanent all-wheel drive is an integral component of the powertrain. It gives the new top model in the A3 series a decisive edge over its two-wheel-drive competition. The Audi S3 can accelerate earlier and more safely when exiting a corner, and remains stable and composed under all conditions, particularly in the rain and snow.
The instrument dials are grey, the needles white. Another S-specific feature can be found on the rev counter, which now includes a boost pressure indicator. The driver’s information system with rest recommendation is standard; the power-retractable on-board monitor powers up to display a special S3 screen when the ignition is turned. The optional leather multifunction sports steering wheel has been redesigned with the flat-bottomed rim. In models equipped with S tronic, it also has aluminium-look shift paddles. The pedals and footrest are made of brushed aluminium.
The sports seats with pull-out seat cushions are also a new development. The seat coverings are one of three variants: In the first, the large side bolsters are covered in Pearl Nappa leather while the seat centre sections are covered in cloth. The second is a combination of perforated Alcantara and Pearl Nappa leather. The third variant is a mix of Velvet leather with Fine Nappa leather. Audi also offers optional S sport seats with integrated head restraints and diamond quilting.
The interior of the S3, including the headlining, is in black with contrasting stitching. S logos adorn the door sill strips, the steering wheel, the gear/selector lever knob and the instruments. Dual-zone electronic climate control and the storage package are standard in the Audi S3.
December 2013
Audi S3 saloon announced
With same 2.0 TFSI engine producing 300PS and 380Nm. Acceleration from 0-62 in 4.7 seconds, top speed electronically limited to 155mph, economy combined 40.9mpg S tronic (40.4mpg manual), CO2 159g/km. From £33,240 OTR.
June 2014
New Audi S3 Cabriolet ready to order
Priced from £38,910 OTR. Standard equipment highlights include Magnetic Ride and Progressive steering.
November 2016
S3 Black Edition launched
S3 three-door and Sportback Black Edition models combine the new colour-coding with 18-inch five-arm Turbine design wheels, while S3 Saloon Black Edition models upgrade to a 19-inch five-arm Wing design corresponding in size with the 19-inch wheel used by ‘standard’ S3 Saloon models. Internally all three variants also benefit from a Bang & Olufsen audio system in place of the Audi Sound System normally included as part of the S3 specification.
What to watch out for
Report of clutch of 2016 Audi S3 failing at 14,000 miles. Dealer reported: "clutch slip on friction plate, excessive heat on pressure plate and flywheel face. No mechanical defects. Requires new clutch kit" and has quoted £2,355.74 (inc. VAT).
04-04-2018:Complaint of transmission lag from 2018 Audi S3 2.0TFSI 310 quatto s-tronic saloon. Will either be the DQ381 or DQ500 7-speed wet clutch DSG/s-tronic.
13-03-2020:Report that 2017 Audi S3 'pre-sense' stopped working. Audi dealer asked if car had been damaged or hit a puddle of water. Owner said no. Audi advised 2 hour non-warranty job costing £270 to recalibrate the sensor.
