In this article:
Who is the Audi S3 a good car for?
What is the Audi S3 like to drive?
Is the Audi S3 a good car?
The Audi S3 is a really good car as it offers striking design inside and out as well as high levels of performance. Seeing as though it is offered in both sedan and Sportback configurations, the S3 will tick almost all the boxes for individuals considering a vehicle in both these segments.
Who is the Audi S3 a good car for?
The Audi S3 is a good car for those looking for the perfect balance between performance and comfort. The stylish interior comes well-equipped and like the exterior will appeal to those looking for a vehicle with aggressive styling, spirited performance and the latest safety and infotainment features.
Is the Audi S3 a good first car?
Although the S3 does not quite offer the same performance as its RS3 sibling, it is still a very quick vehicle. As such anyone that is able to afford the sporty model should seriously consider an advanced driving course before attempting to exploit the full potential of the engine and drivetrain. In terms of the vehicle's dimensions, ease of use as a result of the standard assist systems installed, the Audi S3 should be an easy vehicle to pilot for even inexperienced drivers under normal driving conditions.
Is the Audi S3 a good family car?
Both the Sportback and sedan offerings will accommodate five occupants including the driver, however, the rear bench could become quite cramped if all three passengers are adults. Thus if you have a small family or your children are still very young, the Audi S3 should provide enough space and comfort. We will recommend the sedan as a family vehicle because of the added luggage space provided by the larger boot.
Is there a Hybrid Audi S3?
The Audi S3 is powered fully by an internal combustion engine. However, if you are looking for a hybrid solution, Audi has developed an Audi A3 Sportback TFSI e which takes shape as a plug-in hybrid model. While the latter is not available locally just yet, it could be a product on offer in the near future.
View the latest used Audi S3 for sale in South Africa>
What’s it like to drive?
Reviewers opinion
"Not that you need to worry much about traction though, the quattro system takes care of any slippage that may occur while effortlessly putting down the power. The steering in particular intrigued me with its progressive nature, the sure-footedness of the suspension, power delivery and heaps of traction, inspired one to attack corners in a way that made passengers reach for the OS handle (not available on this model)."
- Lawrence Minnie, AutoTrader
Read the full Audi S3 review >
What does it look like?
Exterior
Interior
What is the Audi S3 like inside?
Like with the exterior of the vehicle, Audi included sharp and characterful lines in the interior of the vehicle. There is a strong horizontal and angular theme that accentuates the width of the interior. The premium cabin comes with partial cloth and partial cloth and artificial leather as well as a host of soft-touch surfaces only contrasted by the trim inlays on the dashboard and door cards. The layout of the climate control switches, MMI navigation and infotainment display and digital instrument cluster provides a futuristic look and feel to the interior.
Style
The Audi S3 is easily distinguishable, not only from the vibrant colours available but from the striking elements around the vehicle. The dark treatment around the grille as well as on the air ducts on the lower front bumper does make it appear mark sportier. On the sides, the standard 19-inch wheels give the model an aggressive stance while the dual exhaust tips at each corner of the rear bumper clearly indicate that this is a serious model. Like the interior, the exterior comes with a variety of strong, angular lines that bolster the muscular character of the vehicle.
Tech features
- Audi drive select
- Cruise control
- Electromechanical steering
- Hold assist
- Speed limiter
- S sport suspension
- Start/stop system
- LED headlamps
- LED rear combination lamps
- Headlamp washer
- Light/rain sensor
- Ambient lighting
- Rear parking aid
- 6-speaker sound system
- MMI Radio plus
- Audi Connect
- Audi smartphone interface
- Digital instrument cluster
- 2-zone climate control
- Multifunction steering wheel
- 6 airbags
Price and specs
Which is the cheapest S3?
The cheapest Audi S3 is the Sportback derivative - prices usually start from R 795 000
Search the latest New and Used Audi S3 deals in South Africa >
How much does it cost?
| Audi S3 Sportback quattro | from R 795 000 |
| Audi S3 sedan quattro | from R 810 000 |
*Pricing correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice.
Competitors
Similar Cars to the Audi S3
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Read our latest Mercedes-Benz A-Class reviews >
Search the latest new and used Mercedes-Benz A-Class for sale in South Africa >
BMW 1 Series
Read our latest BMW 1 Series reviews >
Search the latest new and used BMW 1 Series for sale in South Africa >
Volkswagen Golf
Read our latest Volkswagen Golf reviews >
Search the latest new and used Volkswagen Golf for sale in South Africa >
