The little S3 luxury sedan from Audi was always a hoot to drive. However, the interior was always a notch or two below other Audi products. With the latest refresh, Audi looks to make some big upgrades for this fun ride.
Just by opening door of the 2022 Audi S3 and peeking inside, you can spot some big differences from previous versions. The optional Fine Nappa leather seats with diamond stitching really dress up this sporty cabin. Rear seat space for this compact car has grown but do not expect an abundance of head and legroom for taller riders. A stubby shifter is tiny compared to what you usually see, but it is simple to use and looks cool.
The excellent Audi 12.3-inch virtual cockpit impresses with the sharp display and graphics. The 10-inch MMI touch display is easy to use and there is still a redundant volume knob on the center console.
The Audi S3 sedan will put a smile on your face when you hit the throttle and hit a curvy road. The 2.0L turbo engine packs plenty of power. There is even a more potent version if 306hp is not enough with this S3. My test vehicle also came with the optional sport suspension with damper control that can make the feel very firm or more relaxed with the touch of a button.
A proper small luxury sports sedan should look the part and the 2022 Audi S3 obliges with a blacked-out redesigned grill. There are also vents at the front of the hood and under the LED headlights that look racy. The Black Optic package dresses up the Audi with larger 19-inch bicolor wheels, blacks exhaust tips and a black roof to help to cement that sporty sedan look.
Cost: $44,900; as tested $57,440
MPG: 23 MPG City; 32 MPG Highway. I managed 27.1 MPG in 329 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $6,600 prestige package; $595 Daytona Gray pearl effect; $1,100 S sport package; $1,950 black optic package; $1,250 fine Nappa leather; $1,045 destination charge.
Safety: parking system plus with park assist; head-up display with sign recognition; intersection assist; adaptive cruise assist with traffic jam assist; Audi active lane assist; Audi side assist with pre sense rear; Audi pre-sense city low speed collision assist; top view camera system; rear cross-traffic warning
Things to know: Audi S3 is now a more luxurious small sports sedan because of updated styling and interior. The fun is still there with power and brilliant handling.
Pros:
- Performance from a turbocharged engine and AWD make its loads of fun
- The interior combines sporty looks with more upscale materials
- Has a sporty look with a more aggressive styling on the outside
Cons:
- High price tag when you check off on the option boxes
- Ride could a bit firm for those not used to sporty sedans
- Taller riders might find the back seat head and legroom lacking
