2025 Audi S3 Sportback Photos, engines & full specs

Audi facelifted the entire A3 lineup at the beginning of 2024, and it also refreshed the S3 versions, which were available as sedans and five-door hatchbacks.

The German car manufacturer introduced the first generation of the S3 in 1999. Then, the car boasted a 210 PS (207 hp) 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, and it was exclusively available with a six-speed manual gearbox. Moreover, it was offered only as a three-door hatchback. But then, customers started to ask for more. Those looking for a thoroughbred hot-hatch with an all-wheel drive system asked for more doors, so the automaker provided them with that. In 2020, Audi launched the fourth generation of the A3 and, along with it, the S3 versions (sedan and hatchback). It was the year of the pandemic, and customers had to wait quite a while before they could enjoy the 310 PS (306 hp) all-wheel-drive hatchback. But the automaker reserved a surprise for them when it launched the refreshed version of this nameplate. Besides the exterior and interior upgrades, it also increased the engine’s power by a healthy 23 PS (33 hp), almost reaching the same performance as the 2011 RS3.

At the front, the S3 featured new standard Matrix headlights. In addition, customers could opt for an upgraded package that allowed them to configure up to four DRL light signatures. Audi also upgraded the look of the main singleframe grille and adorned it with L-shaped chromed elements. On the lower side of the bumper, flanking the lower air intake, the car manufacturer placed large side scoops that grabbed air to cool the front brakes and form an air curtain to lower the car’s drag resistance.

From its profile, the standard 18-inch light-alloy wheels were wrapped in fat, 225/40 tires, but customers could opt for a 19-inch set that boasted even wider, 235/35 boots. To make the vehicle easier to recognize, Audi installed black door mirror caps, which added more character to the vehicle. Compared with its non-S siblings, another particular distinction of the car was its lower ground clearance. The car manufacturer offered the S3 with either a mechanical or an adaptive suspension. Finally, at the back, the S3 sported a new bumper with a large diffuser underneath, flanked by four large exhausts. Customers could order the car with titanium Akrapovic pipes for a more pleasant tune.

Inside, the automaker refreshed the cabin of the 2024 S3 Sportback and installed a new gear selector and air vents. Furthermore, Audi created new ambient lighting systems, including one that illuminated the storage compartment placed at the bottom of the center stack. In addition, the door cards featured illuminated fabric panels with 300 laser cuts in them to create a unique look for the vehicle. The S3’s Sedan interior was available in dark colors and a few aluminum accents. The artificial leather-covered center armrest and the dual-zone climate control were standard for the 2024 S3 range.

Under the hood, Audi placed the same 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine as before. But, unlike that, it provided 333 PS (328 hp), which was more potent than its non-facelifted sibling. It was just 7 PS (7 hp) shy of the mighty 2011 Audi RS3 Sportback, but thanks to the new gearbox and transmission, it almost matched its performance.