History/Overview
Audi introduced the S3 in 2015 as a high-performance version of its compact A3 model. It got an update two years after its North American arrival.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
The S3 sedan is largely carried over from last year, but there are a few trim changes. There are redesigned wheels and a few new optional features like wireless smartphone charging and park assist.
Available Trims
Audi offers the S3 sedan in Progressiv and Technik trims. Both use a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine that makes 288 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, which comes standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's quattro AWD.
Standard Features
Progressiv trim's standard features include 18-inch wheels, leather seating, panoramic sunroof, 7.0-inch infotainment display, satellite radio, a smartphone interface, heated and power-adjustable front seats with power lumbar, heated side mirrors, sport suspension, lighted door sills, automatic LED headlights and LED taillights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, brushed aluminum interior trim and drive modes.
The uplevel Technik trim adds navigation with Audi's MMI Touch controller, a digital gauge cluster called the virtual cockpit, passive keyless entry, a Bang & Olufsen stereo, front and rear parking sensors and blind spot monitoring.
Key Options
Progressiv trim can be optioned with navigation and premium packages that add many of the Technik's extra features.
Both trims offer advanced handling packages with Audi's magnetic ride suspension, and a sport front seating package brings sport seats with manual adjustments and upholstered in Nappa leather.
Technik's technology package adds lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, park assist and forward collision detection with automatic braking.
Among this year's new options is wireless smartphone charging, which is a standalone extra in both trims.
Fuel economy
Audi's fuel consumption estimates for the S3 sedan are 10.7/8.0 L/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
Most of the cars you might cross-shop with the S3 sedan come from Audi's German competitors. Mercedes-Benz makes the AMG CLA 45 four-door coupe and less-potent A-Class sedan, while BMW's M240i coupe offers similar speed.
There's also the Volkswagen Golf R, which shares the S3's powertrain.
If you're willing to give up a bit of performance, the VW Jetta GLI and Hyundai Elantra Sport are a pair of quick and fun front-drivers.
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