2016 Audi S3 review

1. Exhilarating power 

The S3 is the smallest model to wear the Audi “S” badge, but it doesn’t lack power. Lift the hood and you’ll find a turbocharged 292-hp four-cylinder engine with strong performance. Zero to 60 takes a claimed 4.7 seconds and the 2016 Audi S3 has a top track speed of 155 mph. Big figures for a compact car. Whether you’re dropping the kids off at school, stopping by the store, or visiting relatives, the 280 lb-ft of torque provides plenty of get-up-and-go in any driving situation. 

2. AWD confidence 

The 2016 Audi S3 has the quattro^® all-wheel drive system for improved AWD traction. A sports suspension system lowers the car to give you a more dynamic driving experience, and the available 19” Performance package includes Audi’s magnetic ride system that precisely controls the car’s dampers electromagnetically to match the current road conditions. Choose a comfortable option for your passengers or a sportier setting for those solo drives. 

3. Discreet appearance 

If you don’t like drawing attention to yourself, the 2016 Audi S3 possesses a strong but subtle style. Marked out by its aggressively styled front fascia, aluminum-optic side mirrors, four exhaust pipes, rear diffuser, trunk lid spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels, the S3 has a low-key look. For a tougher appearance, the S3 Black Optic Performance Package features gloss black exterior trim, body-colored side mirrors, and 19-inch V-spoke alloy wheels. Available for the first time on 2016 S3 models, it will differentiate your S3 a little more. 

4. Upscale interior 

Step inside the 2016 Audi S3 and you’re greeted by an upscale cabin with lots of standard features. Simply styled, but with some stand-out and playful design such as the eye-catching circular air vents, the S3’s cabin feels sporty and looks great. Decorative brushed aluminum dashboard and door inlays and leather faces on the sports seats lend a premium ambience, and the powered retractable MMI^® (Multi Media Interface) screen creates a little theater as it rises and disappears from the dashtop. 

5. Lots of features 

Already packed with the features, lots more have been added to give the 2016 Audi S3 even more appeal. New for 2016, every Audi S3 comes with a rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors. Highlights of the entry Premium Plus include dual-zone automatic climate control and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, SD card slot, HD radio, and Bluetooth^® streaming audio connectivity. Top-line Prestige trim includes an MMI^® touchscreen system and the Advanced Technology package that adds driver-assist features.