2025 Audi S3 Arrives With 328 HP And RS3's Drift-Inducing Diff (2024)

Hot on the heels of the facelifted Audi A3, the Ingolstadt-based automaker has revealed the 2025 S3 Sedan with subtle styling upgrades, more power, and an improved interior.

The handsome compact sports sedan has more tech and toys than ever, but can it succeed against rivals like the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, BMW M235i Gran Coupe, and Acura Integra Type S? At first glance, it may have precisely what it takes to be successful in this class.

In its arsenal is a more powerful engine, a restyled aesthetic, and, thanks to the RS3, the ability to go sideways.

More Power And Performance

For MY2025, the S3 receives a significant power bump from 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque to 328 hp and an estimated 310 lb-ft of torque. That makes it even more powerful than the VW Golf R, with which it shares many components. Presumably, the Golf R facelift due to arrive soon will get similar improvements.

0-60 mph takes just 4.4 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155 mph. To put that into perspective, the Audi RS6 C5 (one of the most celebrated RS6 models) had the exact same performance figures when new – and that had a twin-turbocharged V8.

Aside from more power and torque, the 2.0-liter engine now delivers maximum torque between a wider rev range of 2,100 and 5,500 rpm. The motor has also been tuned to feel more responsive; the turbocharger keeps a constant rpm at steady speeds and low to medium acceleration "in the part-load range."

Audi has also improved the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The clutch pack is compressed more strongly than before, allowing for higher starting torque. As a result, spirited takeoffs are quicker than they once were. Under full load, the already-quick shift times have been halved, while engine speeds under partial load have been increased when the transmission is in Drive to increase response.

Sharper Handling And Dynamics

For MY2025, the S3 Sedan’s quattro all-wheel drive system is now available with the RS3’s torque splitter technology. This allows for fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, thanks to an electronically controlled multiple disk clutch on both drive shafts.

As standard, the S3 receives S sports suspension. Sitting 0.6 inches closer to the ground than the A3, the facelifted variant makes do with stiffer wishbone bearings and new pivot bearings. This results in more grip and steering response in the corners. Speaking of which, the progressive steering is also promised to be more precise than before.

Getting back to the suspension, customers can choose from optional adaptive dampers that have been tuned to work with the torque splitter and the various drive modes. Audi has also introduced the latest generation of its electronic stability control system. The torque control system, which brakes the inside wheels while cornering, has also been improved.

Not to be left out are the front 14-inch brake discs, which are thicker. The ventilated rotors are now 34 millimeters (1.33 inches) thick, 4 mm more than before. The two-piston calipers have also been revised. 18-inch wheels with 225/40 tires are standard, but customers can select from 19-inch wheels with 235/35 rubber. Performance tires are also available, along with Falken Label D sports tires.

Subtle Updates Make The 2025 S3 One Classy-Looking Sports Sedan

The front fascia of the 2025 S3 has been refreshed with the addition of the hexagonal Singleframe grille that is flatter, wider, and more pronounced than before. The side air intakes are more angular and larger, adding restrained menace to the front end. A new front bumper and spoiler round out the changes to the front end. Some people may perceive the placement of the Audi logo as odd, floating halfway between the grille and the bumper.

The updates to the rear end are very successful, with gloss black bumper inserts above the diffuser. Quad tailpipes ensure following traffic won’t mistake your S3 for a lesser A3. There’s also an optional performance exhaust system with a titanium silencer.

In the US, customers can choose from four new paint colors: Arkona White, Ascari Blue metallic, District Green metallic, and Progressive Red.

Tasteful Interior Has Also Seen Improvements

Inside, there’s a new gear selector design and restyled air vents. The overall dashboard layout is the same as before, but the new details make it stand out more. Take the laser-cut, backlit fabric panels in the front doors, for instance, which animate with opening/closing sequences, or the center console and cupholders with contour lighting, which is standard for US customers, along with footwell lighting.

The S3’s interior is made up of mostly dark colors, with a few silver trim pieces. The stainless steel pedals, door handles, and aluminum interior trim inlays contrast sharply with the black roof lining, dashboard, and various other finishes. As standard, the S3 received two-zone climate control and armrests trimmed in faux leather. A flat-bottomed steering wheel is also available.

Finally, the sports seats provide maximum comfort and support when hustling along, thanks to the chunky side bolsters and integrated headrests. Interestingly, customers can choose a new textured fabric for the trim inlays alongside conventional carbon fiber and aluminum finishes.

Send It Sideways

The MY2025 S3 Sedan receives Audi’s virtual co*ckpit as standard, along with a wireless device charger. A 10.1-inch touchscreen is nestled within the dashboard and controls various vehicle settings and functions. Optionally, the MMI navigation plus and connect portfolio can be added, the latter allowing customers to add third-party apps to their infotainment systems.

There’s also a new dynamic plus drive mode, which changes the driving characteristics of the car. The torque splitter sends as much torque as it can to the rear axle, making the S3 more tail happy and enjoyable to drive - on track, of course. Furthermore, the idle speed sits 200 rpm higher (at 1,300) to improve launches from a standstill. The S tronic gearbox also shifts up later and downshifts earlier in this mode.

Audi USA has yet to announce pricing and availability for this model, but we expect an increase from the existing starting price of $47,400. The automaker says these details and the on-sale date will be shared closer to the local introduction.