When the fourth-generation S3 hit the market in 2021, there was a lull. The Volkswagen Golf no longer only boasted a stunning new differential, it was thousands of dollars cheaper, made slightly more horsepower and was based on the same platform. In terms of performance, the old Audi S3 lost its spark compared to its younger sibling and ended up in an awkward position. However, Audi has left the good stuff behind, and the new 2025 Audi S3 looks to be on par with Volkswagen’s super hatchback in terms of performance.
It starts with the final party piece, the electronically controlled differential found in the RS3 and Golf R, which Audi calls a “torque divider”. Thanks to two clutch packs, this differential can not only transfer 100 percent of the rear axle torque to the rear wheels, but also allows the Volkswagen Golf R to move on dry asphalt. So expect similar behavior in S3. Under the new S3, Audi has stiffened some suspension bushings, increased front end negative camber, optimized the calibration of the available adaptive dampers, widened the front brake discs by 4mm and added some new tire options, among others. the hawk
It’s exciting to see a tire manufacturer known for its OEM supply of 200 aftermarket trades, solid value for money, Formula Drift team sponsorships and sticky gum for Audi, but this is just the latest in Falken’s OEM push. As tire technology evolves and new players continue to improve their production and performance, we expect this industry to continue to grow.
Along with chassis upgrades to provide additional boost, the S3’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder now produces 328 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque, an increase of 22 hp and 15 lb-ft. torque While that may not sound like much, when combined with the seven-speed DCT’s larger clutch pack, quicker shifts and clever engine calibration that ensures the turbocharger produces consistent boost pressure under part load, it will make all the difference in the world. .
A facelift usually comes with a revised design and Audi has done a lot to clean up the details. The front grille is more rounded than before, while the vertical black accents between the single-frame main grille and outer bumper grills disappear into the front fascia, simplifying the graphics on the road. At the back, the square air vents in the rear bumper have been reduced in size, though a new rear apron appears to fill the gap. Overall, the end result is a slightly more sophisticated S3 that fits the sensibilities of the segment’s entry-level models.
Inside, a streamlined low-profile electronic shifter, improved mood lighting, additional lighting for the vents and more textiles add a touch of extra pizzazz to the premium entry-level interior. It’s still not as nicely shaped as the Mazda 3’s dashboard, but it’s definitely a faster car. While I wish Audi would replace the touchscreen volume wheel, which works a bit like an old iPod’s scroll wheel, with a physical button, a look inside the Volkswagen Golf R suggests it could actually be worse.
For the 2025 model year, the Audi S3 no longer looks set to be overshadowed by the Volkswagen Golf R’s performance. A new rear differential (pictured above), extra power and a revised suspension will help convince older S3 owners. Returning to the home of the four rings and at the same time attracting new owners who don’t want to feel unprepared for a Volkswagen built on the same platform. On paper, this is the car it was always meant to be, and that should make some Audi fans very happy.
(Image credit: Audi)
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