2025 Audi S3

If there’s an Audi badge and an S initial nearby, like the 2025 Audi S3, we’re happy campers. Now in the third year of this generation’s existence, the S3 goes up another level (see our What’s New section below), consolidating its status as one of the more desirable subcompact luxury sedans. We admire how all its attributes complement each other, providing thrills and prestige in equal measure to create something special.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of subcompact luxury cars, including the Audi S3.

The best news this year is the engine boost: 22 more horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque. Not enough to set the tires alight, but fun all the same. The S3 has also received some components from its harder-core RS 3 stablemate, as well as some tinkering to its transmission. In addition, the exterior and cabin both have some subtle revisions. The free Audi Connect Nav trial subscription increases from six months to three years.

Of the Audi S3’s three trims, Premium Plus is popular, but we also suggest considering the Premium trim with the $1,700 Convenience package because that adds several desirable items. The thing that might sway it one way or the other is the difference in sound systems.

The S3’s main rivals are the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe — the M235 xDrive in particular — and the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35. The M235 xDrive is close in price to the S3, while the CLA 35 begins higher than the S3’s Prestige trim. The Acura Integra Type S is front-wheel-drive (FWD)/manual transmission only and doesn’t quite have the same speed, although it’s close to the S3 cost-wise. Anyone looking at an S3 might also be intrigued by the powerful Volkswagen Golf R with its more practical hatchback body, from about $48,000.

Before buying a new S3 subcompact luxury sports sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Resale values are above average for the class and virtually level with those of its German rivals. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

With 328 horsepower, a bump of 26 horses over last year, the 2025 S3 can accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. That’s a tenth quicker than before while also slightly faster than the 312-hp BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe and the 302-hp Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4Matic.

We’ve found there’s a great balance to the S3, and not just in the sense of weight distribution. This amount of muscle coupled with a sport suspension (lower than the regular A3 by about 0.6 of an inch) and variable-ratio steering all combine to make the S3 a wonderfully enjoyable experience on freeways and canyon roads alike. It’s composed but sufficiently forgiving to be a perfectly acceptable daily driver. The S3 also offers the option of an even more sport-focused suspension.

In addition to the extra power, Audi has also sharpened the transmission’s responses, installed a few components from the higher-performance RS 3, such as a rear torque splitter and swivel bearing suspension, and added a Dynamic Plus driving mode.

Fuel Economy

The S3 achieves 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is fine for this class. The CLA 35 is thirstier by one mile per gallon, while the M235 xDrive Gran Coupe is thriftier by the same difference.

A few updates in the S3’s cabin have resulted in ambient lighting going into more nooks and crannies. The air vents and gear shifter have also been redesigned. We love the sport front seats in the S3, with their extra side support and diamond-stitched inserts of simulated suede. Audi’s usual honed design approach is evident, with fine materials and excellent build quality.

Subcompact sports sedans aren’t the usual choice for transporting rear passengers, although anyone up to average adult size should be fairly comfortable with the S3’s 35.2 inches of legroom — which is more than they’d get in the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe or Mercedes-Benz CLA. We have just one gripe — the 8.3-cubic foot trunk is noticeably smaller than the S3’s rivals.

Minor revisions have brought a few changes that only the most eagle-eyed S3 aficionado will probably detect. Audi says the grille is flatter and wider, while the tail end has a gloss black section above the diffuser and RS 3-style vertical reflectors at the sides. New LED illumination allows drivers to choose from four different daytime running light signatures.

Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
This feature is standard in every new S3 and allows users to integrate their phones without having to plug in a cable. Wireless charging is available at the Premium Plus level.

3-zone automatic climate control
One zone better than the typical two, this is standard across the 2025 S3 lineup.

Convenience package
We recommend this options bundle offered with Premium trim, as it includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, self-dimming mirrors, and various other desirable features. Many of these items are standard in Premium Plus trim.

Matrix-design LED headlights
Exclusive to the top Prestige trim, these units upgrade the usual setup with multiple small LEDs that illuminate the road effectively without dazzling anyone else.

Virtual Cockpit
Drivers can configure the 12.3-inch digital information display to show different types of information, including the navigation system’s maps. In our experience, it’s easy to use and a great piece of equipment. This is part of the optional Technology package offered with Premium Plus and Prestige trims.

Sonos audio
It’s not an especially well-known name in automotive audio, but the 15-speaker system that comes standard in the S3’s Premium Plus and Prestige trims sounds pretty good to us.

The 2025 S3 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine generating an entertaining 328 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, up from 2024’s 306 hp and 295 lb-ft. A 7-speed automated transmission is deployed, along with standard all-wheel drive (AWD).

The regular A3 and the higher-performance RS 3 each have separate reviews.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Audi’s new-vehicle and powertrain warranties last four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. Roadside assistance is included. This protection is typical among European luxury car manufacturers.

Safety Ratings

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the A3 (on which the S3 is based) a Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety equipment includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.