The Audi S3 offers several more features, making it more than just a product improvement. Enhanced output, a torque splitter, and further technological features guarantee robust performance and deft handling. The tiny model's aggressive diffuser, four-pipe performance exhaust system, and expressive front appearance all visually represent its enhanced dynamics.

With 245 kW (333 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, the S3 is more powerful than ever. As part of the product upgrade, the 2.0 TFSI receives an increase in output of 23 PS and 20 Nm more torque. The result is confident pulling power and strong acceleration. The S3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds. Maximum torque is available in a wide rev range between 2,100 and 5,500 rpm. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine and transmission also receive a sportier tuning: When at a steady speed and at low to medium acceleration in the part-load range, the preloaded turbocharger keeps at a constant rpm. In combination with the throttle valve, which is opened during overrun mode, this improves performance. The seven-speed S tronic now enables a more spontaneous take off, thanks to higher starting torque. This is achieved by compressing the clutch pack of the respective clutch more strongly. In addition, the shift time for gearshifts under full load has been halved and engine speeds are increased under partial load when the transmission is set to D which results in very good responsiveness.

The torque splitter, which increased agility and stability in the RS 3, is now available in the S3. Fully adjustable torque distribution between the rear wheels is made possible by this technique. Depending on the driving conditions and the selected Audi drive choose mode, the torque splitter uses an electronically controlled multiple disc clutch on each drive shaft to distribute the torque between the rear wheel on the inside and outside of the curve as efficiently as possible.

Six different driving modes, from highly sporty to comfort-focused, are available with Audi drive choose. The updated model for the S3 includes the well-known profiles (auto, comfort, dynamic, individual, and efficiency) as well as the new dynamic plus mode, which provides exceptionally high driving characteristics as its name implies. In order to achieve this, the torque splitter primarily distributes torque to the rear wheel outside of the curve, causing a tendency to oversteer, and as much torque as possible reaches the rear axle. In sport mode, the electronic stability control (ESC) is turned on automatically. Driving on surfaces with varying friction coefficients is made much more enjoyable by the ESC system's subtle interventions. The engine and transmission have also been tuned specifically for dynamic plus mode. Compared to the dynamic mode, the idle speed of the 2.0 TFSI has increased by 200 rpm to 1,300 rpm to improve off-the-line performance further. The throttle response is even more direct. In addition to shorter gearshifts, the transmission also contributes to increased dynamics with later upshifts and earlier downshifts.

Wishbones with stiffer bearings and new pivot bearings that allow more negative wheel camber ensure an improved steering response and increased lateral control, which means more grip and dynamics in corners. Fittingly, the optimized progressive steering helps the S3 take corners even more precisely. Especially in the middle position, the steering, with its angle-dependent ratio, is more centered, which improves handling. The S sports suspension comes as standard in the S3 models. It lowers the body by 15 mm compared to the A3. The same applies to the optional S sport suspension with adaptive dampers, which has been specially tuned for the torque splitter and the respective Audi drive select modes. A new generation of the electronic stabilization control is also used. Wheel-selective torque control, which selectively brakes the wheels on the inside of the curve slightly while cornering, has also been further developed, as have been the traction and deceleration behavior. Overall, the S3-specific tuning of the suspension control systems results in dynamic turn in and driving behavior. The improved handling goes hand in hand with improved stability at the limit.

The Audi S3 comes as standard with 18-inch 225/40 tires. Two 19-inch 235/35 tires are available as an option, including performance tires with optimized dry handling and improved braking behaviour. Completely new to the range: sports tires from Falken. They offer remarkably high grip and precise track stability, especially on dry roads. In addition, the Falken Label D tires feature extremely precise handling across the entire speed range.

The increased driving dynamics mean increased demand on the brakes. For this reason, the model upgrade for the S3 has been equipped with larger ventilated brake disks on the front axle, which are perforated to provide a visual highlight. The 18-inch steel brake now measures 357 mm in diameter and, at 34 mm, is four mm thicker than before.

The two-pistons calipers at the front are new too. They further improve braking performance, as do larger pads and larger friction surface of the disks, which have a significantly higher thermal and thus also a higher load capacity.

With the model upgrade, the Audi S3 has an even sportier and tauter appearance. The hexagonal, frameless Singleframe features a new structure that is noticeably flatter and wider. L-shaped design elements accentuate the voluminous grille that, along with the large, angular side air intakes, highlights the S3’s dynamic character. A striking front spoiler, with two vertical struts inspired by motorsport, connects the two and further lowers the S3 visually.

The rear also looks more dynamic than before thanks to a redesigned bumper. The shiny black rear apron over the diffuser reflects the shape of the Singleframe, which has recognisable L-wings. It is split into two sections for a design unique to the S, which looks especially aggressive when paired with the RS models' vertical side reflectors. Another distinctive S-model feature, the four tailpipes complete the sporty design. There is a titanium silencer on the performance exhaust system, which is an available upgrade that produces a louder sound.

The vehicle’s progressive design is further accentuated by new expressive metallic finishes, including District Green, Ascari Blue, and Progressive Red. For the first time, Daytona Gray is also available in a matte finish.

Like the redesigned Singleframe, the lighting design is significantly flatter, emphasizing the width of the Audi S3. The 24-pixel elements that make up the digital daytime running lights in the LED and Matrix LED headlights are now arranged in three rows on the upper edge of the housing. For the first time in A3 series models, it is now possible to select and switch between up to four digital daytime running light signatures in the MMI. “This offers our customers a higher degree of personalization. They can change the expression of their model at any time. The signatures interpret self-confidence and agility in different ways,” says Cesar Muntada, Head of Design Light Experience at AUDI AG. “This is also true for the coming home home/leaving home scenarios, which were designed individually for each signature.” The tail lamps also feature a new rear light design and new staging of the coming home/leaving home function.

To match the more striking exterior, the interior has also been significantly sharpened. There are quite a few alterations here – from the shifter design and air vents to the decorative fabric inlays and new interior lighting. All these elements show precision in detail and emphasize the vehicle’s progressive and technical appearance.

The interior of the S3 models features dark colors with a few silver accents. A black roof lining, stainless steel pedals, illuminated door sills with aluminum inserts featuring the S logo, and aluminum-style interior trim emphasize the vehicle’s sporty character. Artificial leather armrests and two-zone comfort air conditioning come as standard. Flattened at the bottom, the three‑spoke sports contour leather steering wheel features multifunction buttons and new chrome-plated steering wheel paddles. Sports seats with integrated headrests and pronounced side bolsters provide enhanced lateral support. In addition to Dinamica microfiber, a new technical textured fabric is available for the decorative inlays, as are aluminum and carbon fiber.

The S3 is digital and connected – thanks to numerous connect services, functions on demand, and a store for apps. In addition to DAB+ digital radio and the 10.1-inch touch display, the Audi virtual cockpit, and an inductive smartphone charger all come as standard. In addition to the two front USB C charging ports in the center console, there are two additional ports in the rear as standard.

Other optional features include MMI navigation plus, along with the complete connect portfolio and access to the store for apps, which allows the driver to use a wide range of applications right on the vehicle display. The selected apps are installed in the S3’s infotainment system – without taking a detour via the user’s smartphone. Users can also interact with their apps via voice command. Functions on demand ensures a high degree of flexibility. A total of five individual infotainment and comfort functions can be added online via the myAudi app, even after the vehicle has been purchased.