Audi South Africa has officially launched the facelifted S3 in both Sportback and sedan versions, with pricing now confirmed. The updated model promises sharper performance, refreshed styling, and upgraded technology, all aimed at keeping it competitive with the Volkswagen Golf 8.5 R.
Power and Performance Boost
Described by Audi as “more than a product update,” the facelifted S3 receives a notable power increase up front. Its 2.0 TFSI engine now delivers 245 kW and 420 Nm, matching the Golf 8.5 R. This marks an increase of 17 kW and 20 Nm over the previous model, allowing the S3 to reach 0–100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.
The turbocharger has been upgraded for quicker spool-up, providing a broader torque range from 2 100 to 5 500 rpm. Additionally, the seven-speed S tronic transmission has been sharpened, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system now features a torque-splitting setup for optimized power distribution between front and rear axles.
Audi has also improved handling with a 15 mm lower ride height, courtesy of the standard adaptive S suspension, stiffer wishbones, sharper steering, upgraded brakes, and a new Dynamic Plus mode in the Audi Drive Select system, which channels more power to the rear wheels. Traditional modes such as Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual are retained.
Refreshed Exterior Design
The facelift S3 continues Audi’s sporty aesthetic with:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Frameless Singleframe grille
- S-specific bumpers and quad exhaust outlets
- Black rear apron and faux diffuser
- Lip spoiler at the front bumper
Additional options include a titanium performance exhaust. Standard Matrix LED headlights are complemented by new colour choices: Daytona Grey Matte, Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and District Green.
Upgraded Interior
Inside, the S3 mirrors the A3’s latest revisions, featuring:
- 10.1-inch MMI Plus infotainment
- 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit
- Restyled centre console with S tronic toggle
- Black roofliner, S alloy pedals, wireless charging, four USB-C ports
- Illuminated S door sills, alloy or carbon decorative inserts
- S steering wheel and sport seats in imitation leather
- Panoramic sunroof and Sonos sound system
Optional upgrades include integrated satellite navigation, Head-Up Display, and bundled packages:
- Comfort Pro: Electric front seats with memory and folding mirrors
- Infotainment Pro: Head-Up Display, navigation, Audi Phone Box connect
- Climate Control: Heated front seats and tri-zone climate system
Audi S3 Pricing in South Africa
All S3 models include a five-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway maintenance plan.
| Model | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| S3 Sportback | 1 091 100 |
| S3 Sedan | 1 106 100 |
| RS3 Sportback | 1 498 200 |
| RS3 Sportback Carbon | 1 591 900 |
| RS3 Sedan | 1 528 200 |
| RS3 Sedan Carbon | 1 610 700 |
The facelifted S3 strengthens Audi’s position in the premium hot hatch segment, offering a compelling mix of power, style, and technology to compete with rivals like the Golf 8.5 R.
Related article: Smart, Stylish, and Worth It: Why the Golf 8.5 Deserves Its Price Tag
