Sedans may be facing challenges, but the Audi S3 proves they're far from dead. This fiery sports compact sedan gets a significant upgrade for 2025, making it more powerful and even more fun to drive.
Unveiled today, the all-new 2025 Audi S3 on paper looks like a force to be reckoned with. While it might not quite match the untamed spirit of its bigger brother, the RS3, the S3 now boasts more muscle under the hood than the Golf R (at least for now – a family feud, we're sure!).
The heart of the beast is a retuned 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out a mighty 328 bhp and 420Nm of torque. This makes the 2025 S3 the most powerful iteration yet, launching from 0-100 kmph in a blistering 4.7 seconds. However, the top speed remains capped at 250 kmph, just like its predecessor.
The S3 benefits from its higher starting torque and a more responsive throttle, translating to quicker acceleration from a standstill. Audi claims gear changes are also noticeably faster thanks to a new, lightning-quick seven-speed DSG gearbox that cuts shift times in half.
Audi adds the Dynamic+ mode (among the other modes) on the S3 for the first time which allows for enhanced driving dynamics. Stopping power gets an upgrade too! New two-piston calipers paired with larger 18-inch ventilated and perforated front disc brakes will provide superior stopping power when compared to the previous 14-inch setup.
But the magic goes beyond just a powerful engine and sharper brakes. The re-tuned TFSI engine and the addition of a torque splitter, elevates the driving experience to a whole new level. This innovative technology sends more torque to the rear wheels, allowing for playful drifts and dynamic driving hooliganism.
As standard, the S3 comes equipped with an S sports suspension, offering a stiffer and lower ride compared to the regular A3.
Audi takes things a step further by incorporating the upgrades from the facelifted A3 and adding their unique touch. The new S3 boasts a sharper exterior with customizable LED DRLs that offer four distinct lighting options. Both the headlights and taillights feature welcome and goodbye animations, adding a touch of personality.
The signature hexagonal grille gets a makeover, appearing wider, taller, and sharper. The Audi logo sits proudly on the edge between the grille and the body panel, flanked by prominent side air intakes. The color palette expands with four new options: Ascari Blue, District Green, Arkona White, and Progressive Red. Standard 18-inch wheels with the option for a 19-inch upgrade complete the look.
Moving inside, the cabin features modern ambient lighting and backlit fabric inserts on the door panels. Thankfully, Audi hasn't succumbed entirely to the all-touchscreen trend, and the new S3 retains a satisfying number of physical buttons for essential controls.
Now, the question everyone's asking is: will the 2025 Audi S3 make it to India? Unfortunately, a direct launch from the brand seems unlikely. However, European enthusiasts can look forward to getting behind the wheel of either the 5-door Sportback or the 4-door sedan version when it hits the market.
