2023 Audi S3 Sedan

The 2023 Audi S3 Sedan remains a premium subcompact performance model with four doors and a trunk, competing against the likes of the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 and the M235i version of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe in the USA. Like its rivals, the 2023 S3 Sedan is powered by a transverse-mounted turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gas engine with a power output of 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That makes it slightly more powerful than its fellow rivals. Power is delivered promptly to its quattro all-wheel-drive system via a snappy S-Tronic seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, resulting in a claimed 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds, but under ideal conditions, you can easily shave 0.2 seconds off this time. Its top speed is limited to 155 mph. These impressive performance results are backed by the sedan's more aggressive front and rear bumpers and larger alloy wheels. The interior boasts Audi Sport branding on the seats and other surfaces. Besides this, it has a lot in common with the standard A3 range, including the use of VAG's MQB platform. If you can't stretch to the full-fat RS3 Sedan for $13,000 more, the S3 has a lot going for it.

The new Audi S3 Sedan starts at a price of $46,800 for the Premium before a destination charge of $1,095. After that, the Premium Plus goes for $49,500 and the Prestige costs $53,500. By comparison, the BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe begins at $46,400. By adding every option to the Prestige, it'll approach $60,000 including the destination charge.

If you are looking for sharp handling characteristics, the new Audi S3 Sedan is not going to disappoint with its front McPherson and rear multilink suspension setup which is tuned to offer sharp cornering characteristics without sacrificing overall comfort. The progressive electromechanical steering with speed-dependent power assist still feels light to the touch and could do with a bit more responsiveness, but once you get accustomed to it, the four-door model offers sharp and direct steering characteristics. Those looking for a more athletic chassis can opt for the $1,100 S Sport Package which includes the retuned suspension with adaptive damping. This is not available for the Premium trim. The four-pot engine produces 306 hp and 295 lb-ft, and that goes to the quattro system via a seven-speed automatic transmission promptly. It does struggle with lag in the higher gears, but for the most part, it is a responsive powertrain, particularly so when the Audi Drive Select is in Dynamic mode. When in Comfort, the S3 transforms into a subcompact sedan that graces urban and highway driving settings with impressive refinement.

As our review of the Audi S3 Sedan shows, it is the most well-rounded option in its segment even if it lacks some of the character and fanfare of its direct rivals. As a daily driver with enough performance to scare most cars on the road, the S3 is a viable option that is easy to live with if you can excuse the limited rear legroom and trunk space. Having said that, the Audi S3 Sedan's distant relative over at Volkswagen throws a serious spanner in the mix if you're after the best balance of performance and practicality. The Golf R hatch has a more attractive price and already comes fully loaded as standard, while also having a far larger trunk. Regardless, next to its primary competitors, the Audi S3 Sedan holds its own in its segment and although AMG and BMW M have compelling challengers, they are still playing catch-up to a segment where Ingolstadt has reigned supreme for so many decades.

Though it's quicker than most, the 2023 Audi S3 is a tiny car; unfortunately, its price tag is not. We'd struggle to stick with the base Premium trim, as it misses several important features. The Premium Plus seems like a decent value at $49,500, but by the time you add a few packages, it's better to opt for the Prestige at $53,500. We'd personally opt for the Prestige, then try to leave the dealer without any additional option packages like the Black Optic, S Sport, or Fine Nappa Leather, which are all tempting. Turbo Blue is a head-turning no-cost option, keeping the price to $54,595 including destination.