The three-door version of the new Audi S3 has just been released in Europe. And while it is a little lighter and quicker than the S3 Sportback we’ll be seeing in Australia it’s still worth taking in the first impressions from those who attended the launch:
Autocar (Greg Kable): The Audi S3 is a very accomplished hot hatch—among the best in the business for pure ability, no less. It is terrifically fast, impressively agile and boasts loads of grip. But, that said, it isn’t as engaging to drive we had hoped. What it lacks in pure back-road excitement, the new S3 attempts to make up for in overall quality. In this respect it is better than any rival out there.
Auto Express (Jack Rix): The new S3 feels as crushingly fast as its predecessor in a straight line, but makes unexpected improvements in other areas. The bassy soundtrack is as close to a six-cylinder as a four-cylinder gets, it feels lighter on its toes in corners and the lightning-fast S tronic gearbox is a perfect match. Dial down the dynamic settings and it’s more refined and comfortable than ever, too. More feedback through the steering wheel would be appreciated, and ultimately the handling feels safe rather than lively, but Audi has done enough to make keen drivers think twice before buying the BMW M135i.
Car (Ben Pulman): The Audi S3 has always been a good all-round hot hatch, but this latest version has a broader repertoire: it’s more refined and the cabin is unmatched in this class, and it’s also more fun to drive hard. The S3 isn’t quite as involving as any of the Ford/Vauxhall/Renaultsport crowd, but I’m not sure that matters when the rest of the package is so complete.
Drive (Jonathan Hawley): As well as being feisty in a straight line the S3 is an agile handler with oodles of grip, the ability to find traction coming out of corners, and the steering is well weighted and precise.
Hmm, it’s a bit of a mixed bag really. Clearly the 8V appears better than the 8P model it replaces, but has it improved enough to mix it with the increased competition from Germany?
The review from Australia’s own Drive is so lacking in detail about the actual driving experience we’re inclined to ignore it. But, based on the other comments, and compared against the list prices of $68,400 for the M135i and $74,900 for the much more powerful A45 AMG, we can’t help but think, as good as the S3 might be, its mid-60s pricepoint might make it at least $5K too much.
3 replies on “Does the new Audi S3 cut the mustard?”
I like 3 doors. Why don’t they sell here?
“Audi has done enough to make keen drivers think twice before buying the BMW M135i”
hilarious comment. Not a fat chance in hell. S3’s have always been known for their understeer and lack of feedback. Nothing has changed here. If you’re looking for something that is quick in a straight line and totally numb without soul in the corners then the S3 is your ticket. Otherwise there are much better options out there. The problem lies and will always be in the AWD system VW/Audi use. It’s essentially a front wheel drive untill grip is lost and then some power is switched to the rear. This is the reason why VW/Audi AWD hot hatches will never be fun to drive.
When do you notice said oversteer? BMW fanboy perhaps? Or maybe read too many articles when cars are being track driven ? On the road even during spirited drives there usually is bugger all in it…..you can believe marketers if you like..
I own an s4 and an s3 both that have a tune and they both are simply fantastic. I have owned rear drive high powered mercs (amg) and Nissan r32’s and there is nothing bland or dull about the s3. All of these modern cars are fantastic on the road and you cannot state the 1-series is a looker surely? It looks like a Hyundai … Car choice in this segment is tightening up nicely. You cannot claim x blows y these days…all are really well regarded and I suggest a test drive of each is in order before making judgment – when they come out!