When Audi gave us the keys to an S3 Sportback to try out for a while, we got pretty excited. We heard tales that this hot hatch is joy to drive, and when we finally got behind the wheel of this thing we weren’t disappointed. Being the bigger, ballsier brother of the Audi A3, the S3 is classy vehicle with performance to match.
Design
Based on the super stylish A3 model the S3 has turned things up a notch aesthetically. With lowered suspension, 18-inch alloys and a stylish body-kit the car’s exterior is discerningly sleek. For those with more refined tastes, the S3‘s look is sporty yet understated.
As the driver’s door opens I was pleasantly greeted by a beautifully styled, well crafted, premium interior. The color and trim selection, is well paired, and the overall design of the interior emanates sophistication.
You won’t find any creaks, or cracks in the mouldings. From the steering wheel right down to the control buttons and dials, Audi has made no sacrifices when it comes to build quality.
Twisting the chrome trim around the air-con vent made me feel like James Bond dialling the combination into a precious safe. Although the dial simply controls the airflow the premium feel was a nice touch.
The Drive
The S3 was an absolute a pleasure to drive, a magnificent blend of comfort and performance. The steering is solid, the car handles beautifully and packed with a loads of grunt. As soon as you put the foot the down this hot hatch is quick off the mark and grips around the corners. The S3 makes for a pleasant everyday drive, but if you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy the thrill of the sports dynamic mode and start working that paddle shift.
Moving to the Powertrain, the S3’s 4-cylinder 2.0 liter turbocharged engine generates an impressive 206kW of power which is capable of getting to car to 100kms/h in a mere 5.0 seconds. When complemented with a slick 6-Speed Dual-clutch transmission, the S3 has a refined and sporty feel which is great to drive both around the city and on the open road. Combined fuel consumption of 6.9 L per 100kms means that it won’t break the bank to run, although it does drink Premium ULP.
Technology
When a car looks this good and drives this well, it’s always great to see some innovative extras features that make it that extra bit more premium. The S3 features optional full LED headlights, rear lights and indicators, a display screen that rises from within the dash and a Bang and Olufson sound system to name a few.
Specs
- Engine – 2.0 liter petrol turbo. 206 kW / 380 Nm
- Fuel Consumption – 6.9L/100km
- Transmission – six-speed dual-clutch or six-speed manual
- Cylinders – 4
