2027 Audi S3AudiSuper fun to driveLooks sporty and coolUpgraded tech featuresMany digital buttonsQuiet exhaust noteTiny trunkQuicker than the A3 but not as hardcore as the RS3, the S3 is the enthusiastic middle option for Audi's entry-level all-wheel-drive sedan. This generation of S3 was introduced for model year 2022 and received a refresh for 2025.Audi has revealed additional updates to the European S3 for 2027, which are expected to arrive in the United States, as well. Sporty small sedan rivals to the Audi S3 include the BMW M235 Gran Coupe, Acura Integra Type S, and Subaru WRX.What's NewChanges for the 2027 S3 are expected to mirror those recently applied to the European model.BasicsImproved driver assist featuresEnhanced 360-degree cameraAutomated parking assistance techExteriorExclusive pattern for LED headlightsS3 badge in updated grilleInteriorRevised dashboard layout with fewer physical buttonsStandard 11.9-inch driver display and 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreenUpdated center consoleImproved wireless charger with higher output and magnetic alignmentNew steering wheel with physical scroll wheelAdvertisementAdvertisementThis page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkIn Audi's small-sedan lineup, the S3 strikes an appealing balance. It delivers a meaningful bump in performance over the A3 while leaving space for the more extreme RS3. That makes the S3 the sweet spot for buyers seeking compact sport sedan fun.The S3's compact dimensions and well-sorted suspension make it easy to drive quickly and confidently. Its powertrain provides strong torque but could sound more exuberant. Fortunately, the chassis feels great on a winding road or during the daily commute; the torque-vectoring rear differential really livens up the handling.Like other luxury subcompact sedans, the S3 has some compromises. Rear-seat space is tight, and the trunk is very small. The tech changes made for 2027 add certain appeal; Audi's latest infotainment setup is good but also integrates basic controls into the touchscreen. Popular features and driver assist tech remain optional extras, not standard.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith its mix of performance and everyday drivability, the S3 appeals to a wide range of drivers. Sharp styling, a premium cabin, and modern tech give it a genuine Audi feel. The result is a smart, satisfying small sport sedan that's mostly worth the price.Top-Ranked Competitors:Acura Integra Type SBMW M235 Gran CoupeSubaru WRXAudi S3 EngineThe 2027 S3 continues to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine that produces 328 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sends that output to standard Quattro AWD with a torque-vectoring rear differential. Expect 0–60-mph acceleration to take about 4.4 seconds.MPGs and RangeFuel economy for the S3 comes in at approximately 23/31 mpg city/highway, with up to 377 miles of driving range available from a full tank of gas.Safety and Driver Assist FeaturesStandard FeaturesThe S3 includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.Available FeaturesOptional driver aids include adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.Cargo Space and Interior RoomAlthough passenger space in the S3 is fine for a subcompact sedan, its trunk is extremely small.TechnologyInfotainmentFor 2027, the S3 upgrades from a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen to an 11.9-inch driver display and 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen running Audi's latest graphics and user interface.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis system eliminates some of the physical buttons included previously; climate control and other basic functions are now controlled via infotainment. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The wireless charging pad is enhanced with 25-watt charging speeds and magnetic alignment. USB-C ports are also included.Sound SystemThe S3 is equipped with a 15-speaker Sonos premium audio system. It gets virtual surround sound and enhanced digital processing for 2027.Available UpgradesTech options for the S3 include a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and semi-autonomous parking assistance.ValueStandard FeaturesExpect pricing for the 2027 Audi S3 to begin at about $54,000. Standard exterior features include 18-inch wheels, full LED lighting, quad exhaust tips, and a trunklid spoiler. Inside, it gets leatherette upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, three-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.Recommended TrimAudi doesn't exactly offer different trim levels for the S3, just packages. Make sure to choose one equipped with the optional driver assistance features, even though those are extra cost.Audi S3 vs. RS3The S3 is plenty of fun to drive, but the RS3 takes things to a higher level. The RS3 has a different engine that's far more powerful than that in the S3. Changes to the chassis and brakes make the RS3 an even stronger performer than the S3.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs might be expected, the RS3 is also a lot more expensive than the S3. Is it worth it? Compare the Audi S3 to the RS3 to decide.
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