Audi Gave the S3 Significant Updates for the 2025 Model Year
The Audi S3 has long been a pocket rocket of sorts, forming the entry level to the brand’s extensive performance catalog. It’s getting a mid-cycle refresh for 2025, which will bring more power and features from the RS3 to boost its already impressive performance.
Audi gave the S3 the RS3’s Torque Splitter on the rear axle, which brings torque vectoring and the ability to more easily rotate the rear end during aggressive driving. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gained 23 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque for 328 ponies and 310 pounds of twist.
The S3 also benefits from chassis upgrades and revised suspension that works with the new Torque Splitter system. Audi fitted larger brakes and more aggressive tires, and the car gets a new 19-inch wheel for the model year.
Styling updates include a revised grille and bumpers, and the new headlights feature customizable light signatures. Inside, there’s a wireless phone charger, additional USB ports, and a fancier ambient lighting system.
While the updates don’t quite give the S3 the bottled rage that the RS3 delivers, they’re substantive enough to make the car one of the most compelling options in its class. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 is short on power, while the BMW M235i isn’t as engaging or fun to drive. Plus, we likely won’t see too many more hot gas-powered Audis going forward, so time could be running out to pick one up.
[Image: Audi]
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Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.
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I'd buy this if they brought back the old "mini-wagon" version.
Tomorrow. I'd buy it tomorrow.
Tempts me to splurge on my next car...
Drove the current S3 a few months ago because I'm in love with the current A3. I liked the extra power of course but disliked all the other differences. The S3 rode too harsh, had obnoxious fake fart can engine noise and the sportier seats were much less comfortable. I hate the refreshed front end of the new A3 and S3.
Wow. 328 HP. My 2019 A3 has 228hp, and it's quick as hell. I can't image what another 100 horses would do. The 3-series Audi is just a fantastic little car. No issues whatsoever, great MGP and an absolute blast to drive. At 61, I know I don't have a lot of years left to enjoy these cars. Hopefully they continue with ICE engines for the foreseeable future.