Audi S3
Imbued with the style and comfort you’d expect from the Audi marque, the S3 turns up the dial on engagement and performance, combining it all in a diminutive package that makes for one of the top small performance sedans on the market. Though not on the level of its higher-performing sibling, the RS 3, the S3 still boasts impressive acceleration, agile driving dynamics, and a surprisingly plush ride. Conversely, the S3 won’t score many points for ample storage space or affordability. Then again, if you’re considering the S3, these aren’t likely to be non-starters.
Imbued with the style and comfort you’d expect from the Audi marque, the S3 turns up the dial on engagement and performance, combining it all in a diminutive package that makes for one of the top small performance sedans on the market. Though not on the level of its higher-performing sibling, the RS 3, the S3 still boasts impressive acceleration, agile driving dynamics, and a surprisingly plush ride. Conversely, the S3 won’t score many points for ample storage space or affordability. Then again, if you’re considering the S3, these aren’t likely to be non-starters.
Audi S3 Model Lineup
The S3 is a performance variant of Audi’s subcompact luxury sedan, the A3. Roughly 10 inches shorter than its bigger brother, the compact S4, the S3 is the smallest sedan in Audi’s S lineup, with seating for up to five. The S3 shares a platform and some components with the Volkswagen Golf R, which is built by Audi’s sister company. An even more potent performance version, the RS 3, is reviewed separately.
Audi offers the S3 in three trims: the entry-level Premium, the mid-tier Premium Plus, and the range-topping Prestige. All versions come well-equipped with high-end features. A panoramic sunroof and rearview camera have been standard on the S3 since 2016, while Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and forward collision mitigation joined the standard-features list in 2017. However, some advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning, are optional.
The S3 debuted in 2015 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 292 hp and mated to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which was replaced by a seven-speed unit in 2019. The 2022 model year saw a considerable power boost with the arrival of a new turbo-four capable of 306 horses. All versions feature standard all-wheel drive. No hybrid or electric variants have been offered.
Popular Trims
Audi S3 Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2015
4.5
114 verified owner reviews
Top 2015 Reviews
Joshua F. from CA
Verified Owner · Nov, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
The audio forward/back feature that is part of the volume knob next to the shifter should be incorporated into the steering wheel.
Jared D. from CO
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
Lack of Standard equipment. 50k vehicle doesn't have folding mirrors or auto dimming mirrors
Jose H. from NY
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
The vehicle is definitely excellent engineering and beautifully designed. The only concern that I have is the sunlight reflected from the chrome cover of air window and affects the side mirrors.
Brown M. from ME
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
Love the car. Poor side visibility through
Michelle C. from FL
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
Glove box too small. Storage in console too small. Side storage too small. Need a Sunglass holder. Cup holder should be further back. All cups don't fit in holder
Kartik S. from CA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
It is the most uncomfortable vehicle I have ever driven. I have started having severe lower back problems because of the seats. I am a very young guy who is having some serious health issues. I will never recommend this car to anyone. I am trying my best to sell this car ASAP. Audi has fitted this car with the most uncomfortable seats on the planet. I have paid through my nose for this car but I have had to pay more for the treatment of my back. My social life has been severely impaired because of this vehicle. Don't even get me started on the back seats. We can't even fit 2 people comfortably there. If you are around 5ft 10" forget about sitting in the back seat. Though seemed to be an alluring performance vehicle during the test drive, Audi has come out with a significantly flawed product. It has not been designed with ergonomics in mind. I dread driving this vehicle.
Tanya D. from CA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
Bluetooth audio doesn't work with my cell phone (LG G3). Wifi hotspot is unreliable, it disconnects often. User interface (scroll wheel, touch pad) is counter-intuitive and cannot be adjusted, this makes the map navigation useless (works opposite from a smartphone). The car lacks memory seats (pre-set seat positions), this is surprising for such an expensive car. The air conditioner runs too cold.
Dawn M. from OH
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
I love my new car. My only issue was with the electronic safety system. The driver's side airbag and an electrical component in the rear passenger door had to be replaced within the first 6 weeks of ownership. My S3 is now issue-free.
Meyrick J. from CA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
Very impressed with the build quality.
Sid B. from DC
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Audi S3 2.0T Quattro
I absolutely love my Audi S3!