US-spec 2017 Audi S3 Sedan Review Highlights Virtual Cockpit, New Design

But we wanted to share this video review from TFL Car because it highlights how the 2017 model year S3 sedan differs from the 2016 and what separates it from the European model.

You see, while the Germans now buy a new 2.0 TFSI turbo engine borrowed from their TTS, America gets to use the old powertrain, the one that's been around since the 2015MY Golf R. It's rated at 292 horsepower on premium gas and is matched to a 6-speed S tronic gearbox. Meanwhile, the Euro model has gone from 300 to 310 of their metric horsepower while gaining about 5% more torque and an extra gear for the auto.

As you might have noticed, exterior styling now closely mirrors that of the A4 sedan, with LED headlights that are pinched at the bottom and a sharp grille. Because all A3 sedan models are made in Hungary, the exterior of this is identical to what the Europeans have, so no problems there.

The 2017 model year also borrows the 12.3-inch digital dash from the TTS, and in the S3, some of the menus are different than in the A3. For example, the oil temperature can be displayed, and the tachometer can be placed in the middle, just like on the R8.

Despite costing from $42,900, the S3 does make some sacrifices. It's not very roomy in the back, though you can say that about the Mercedes CLA-Class also. You can't order it with a manual either, and unlike the Ford Focus RS, you can't send more than half of the power to the back because it's not overdriven.

Of course, there are alternatives, but the S3 sedan is in a segment of its own, somewhere between the Jetta GLI and the CLA 45. You can probably go as fast in a Subaru WRX, but you won't have the same level of comfort of technology.