The Audi A3 has undergone a mid-cycle refresh for the 2025 model year, with updates extending to the sporty S3 and high-performance RS 3 models.
The A3 and S3 models are currently available for order, priced at $39,495 and $49,995 respectively, both figures including a $1,295 destination charge.
The styling updates on the S3, like on the A3, are subtle and include new front and rear fascia designs, along with a frameless front grille. The internals of the LED head and taillights are also new, and S3 owners can select between various light signatures for the daytime running lights via the infotainment system.
Inside, designers have added new details for the gear shifter and air vents, along with new trim and dash accent options, and a standard ambient lighting package. Also standard are a black headliner, stainless steel pedals, and aluminum accents featuring the S logo, along with an Audi app store.
Power comes from the same 2.0-liter turbo-4 found in earlier S3s, but peak output now registers at 328 hp, up from the previous model's 306 hp. Audi states the S3 will achieve 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds and a top speed capped at 155 mph.
A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission carries over, but the unit has been optimized to deliver higher starting torque and thus quicker acceleration. Shift times have also been cut in half under full load, according to Audi.
Another key change is the addition of the torque splitter inherited from the RS 3. This is a Haldex differential with multi-disc clutches on each rear axle shaft that allows the S3 to not only direct torque between the front and rear axles, but now also between the rear wheels, enhancing handling during hard cornering.
Further drive torque control is achievable via a brake-based torque-vectoring system that refines the traction control system. Larger brakes have been added at the front, with ventilated discs now measuring 14 inches across, approximately 1.2 inches larger than before, which reside within standard 18-inch wheels equipped with 225/40 tires. Two different 19-inch wheel patterns are available, which come with 235/35 tires.
To enhance handling, the S3's McPherson strut front suspension features a new pivot bearing that enables more negative wheel camber. Together with stiffer wishbones, the updated S3 delivers improved grip and control during aggressive cornering, according to Audi. Adaptive dampers are available.
The driver can control the settings of many electronic chassis systems using the drive mode selector, which on the updated S3 gains a new Dynamic Plus mode. This mode also influences the engine by raising the idle level for improved throttle response, and makes the transmission deliver later upshifts and earlier downshifts.
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