WASHINGTON — The new Audi S3 is an “in your face” sports sedan that’s more aggressive than the redesigned A3. With 292-horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, the S3 also has a new look with bulging wheel arches containing bigger tires that put real power on the ground. The exterior looks very good and the smaller size really suits the design.
The Audi S3 is louder. It has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a quick shifting six-speed S tronic transmission. You can let the car shift or use the steering wheel paddles to shift yourself. There’s no manual transmission offered in the S3, which might be a downfall for some drivers. You’ll notice some turbo lag if you cruise before hitting the gas pedal.
The S3 is a sport sedan, so don’t expect a luxury car ride. You notice the bumps a little more, but you get a firm ride. With all-wheel drive, it’s sure-footed on dry and wet pavement. The $1,400, 19-inch performance package has larger wheels. The Audi Magnetic ride adjusts the suspension depending how you want to drive.
The interior isn’t flashy, which is good. The A3 is simple and businesslike, and the bits of chrome and aluminum look cool on the air vents. The back seats don’t have much legroom, but the leather comfortably holds you in place. The flat bottom steering wheel is just the right size and feels cozy in your hands.
Then there’s the dash with a clean design, and a power NAV screen that can be out or stowed away. My car had the $5,900 Prestige Package with NAV, the MMI touch (which allows you to write with the control wheel — a good way to input an address), a loud Bang & Olufsen sound system, LED headlights, and a parking system with a rearview camera.
The Audi S3’s starting price is around $42,000. My tester is stickered at $52,095 with options that, a few years ago, would’ve been highly-priced. Now, it seems to be in line and maybe a little less than some of its competition. If you can live without red brake calipers, you can save $400 or forgo the $550 Misano Red pearl effect paint.
The S3 is rated 23 miles per gallon in the city, 31 miles per gallon on the highway, and a combined 26 miles per gallon of premium. However, I just couldn’t get it there. I loved the turbo sound, and managed 23.7 miles per gallon over 190 miles.
This car isn’t entry-level. It speaks to you on a personal level.
Let’s take the long way home.
Go ahead and press that turbo.
Sure, why not.
Mike Parris examines the new Audi TDI turbo diesel later this week. He is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association. The vehicles are provided by STI, FMI or Event Solutions for the purpose of this review.
