Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Audi S3 Sportback review (2003-2012)

The S3 can't match the handling finesse, steering feel or silky engine of the best premium hot hatches

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Audi S3
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Driving
The S3 employs familiar hardware under the bonnet. But the Golf GTI's 2.0-litre FSI has been uprated, with a new alloy head, bigger turbocharger and modified intercooler, all of which translates into 350Nm and 261bhp. Such torque levels, coupled with traction from the quattro four-wheel drive system, means acceleration off the line is impressive - at the test track, the S3 blitzed the 0-60mph sprint in 5.6 seconds. But there's no escaping this engine is better in standard 197bhp guise. Full boost arrives later, power delivery isn't as smooth or consistent and while Audi claims to have developed something it calls a "sonorous acoustic profile", it sounds flat. At least the black brake callipers, complete with S3 badging, deliver firm stopping power, and the short-throw gearlever provides slick shifts. It feels eager from the word go too - which, combined with stiff suspension that delivers a bouncy ride on broken tarmac, can make it tiring to drive. But then, these cars are meant to be fun! Unfortunately, the S3 fails to capitalise on this advantage. Although fast across country thanks to the turbo's accessible power and the grip and traction of four-wheel drive, it is not especially rewarding. Chiefly to blame for this is the slow-witted steering, which doesn't feel that well-engineered or positive.

Marketplace
Audi's S3 has an image few opponents can match. Its template was set by 1999's first-generation model, which featured a compact frame, 4WD chassis and small-capacity, high-output turbocharged engine. Obviously, Audi doesn't believe in changing a winning formula, as the latest car is little different. But that's not to say there's nothing new or noteworthy about it. It sits low and looks sleek and stylish, and the more menacing nose helps to set it apart from lesser models in the A3 range. However, the deep flanks and low sills manage to make the 18-inch wheels look small. Only available as a three-door, the S3 has a number of rivals, including the VW Golf R32, Seat Leon Cupra, BMW 130i and Volvo's C30 T5.

Owning
Open one of the long doors and you're presented with a superbly detailed cabin. We love the chrome rings around the air vents, while build and material quality are a significant step up from some rivals. However, the driver's seat is mounted slightly too high, while those who like to feel secure at the wheel will be disappointed there isn't more underthigh support. Taller passengers will find headroom at a premium in the back, even though the rooflining has been cut away to help things. Room is OK but oddly it's not as spacious inside as a Golf, even though the two share the same platform. The boot is shallow due to the 4WD hardware too, offering less than 300 litres of luggage space. It's not very fuel-efficient either, averaging 24.2mpg in our hands, and servicing costs border on the obscene at £1,150 for the first three check-ups. We'd expect better than 46.2 per cent for the S3's three-year retained value as well.

Engines, performance and drive

0

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

0

Interior, design and technology

0

Practicality, comfort and boot space

0

Reliability and Safety

0
Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,848 off RRP*Used from £7,649
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,831 off RRP*Used from £16,629
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,261 off RRP*Used from £13,400
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £3,331 off RRP*Used from £9,900
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Ford Fiesta to return? Icon could be reborn as re-nosed Volkswagen ID.2
Ford Fiesta facelift - front cornering

Ford Fiesta to return? Icon could be reborn as re-nosed Volkswagen ID.2

VW’s sales and marketing boss considers Ford tech share “very successful” – and won’t rule out future projects
News
30 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025