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2020 Audi S3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Audi S3 highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

Pros

  • Equipment upgrades
  • On-board technology updates
  • New suite of driver-assist features

Cons

  • Lack of manual transmission
  • Limited rear space for adults
  • Less fuel efficient than regular A3

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 29 highway, 25 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

Potent compact sports sedan

The third-generation Audi S3 was updated for the final time in 2020. The high-performance model is based on the A3 compact luxury sedan and the 2020 Audi S3 has realigned trims with upgraded features and a new Quantum Gray paint color. The powerful 2.0L engine and AWD system remain the same.

All Audi S3 years

What is new for the 2020 Audi S3?

  • The S3 is available in a variety of new trims, including the Premium Plus S-Line and Premium S-Line.
  • The Premium Plus and Prestige trims have been discontinued for 2020.

2020 Audi S3 trims

Curious how Audi S3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Premium S-Line:

  • 288-hp, 280-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Sunroofs
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Parking Sensors
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags

Premium Plus S-Line:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium S-Line
  • No significant upgrades found on the Premium Plus S-Line

Audi S3 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2020 Audi S3

1. Plenty of power 

A strong performer, the 2.0L turbocharged engine of the 2020 Audi S3 has 288 hp. That’s enough power for a zero to 60 time of 4.6 seconds, meaning Audi’s compact sports sedan is fast. The engine’s 280 lb-ft of torque makes for easy overtakes on the highway, and the seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch transmission delivers quick and smooth shifts. Choose the fully automatic mode for when you want a relaxing drive, or select the manual mode for when you want to have some fun. 

2. A luxurious interior 

The cabin of the 2020 Audi S3 has a luxurious yet sporting ambiance. The overall impression is of elegant style, but there are fun touches such as the four circular air vents that resemble jet turbine engines. An upscale feel is given by the brushed aluminum door and dash inserts, the leather seat faces, and the dual-zone automatic automatic climate control display. Sportier touches include the flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters. Choose the S Sport seat package for Nappa leather front sports seats with contrast diamond stitching and “S” embossing. 

3. Feature-rich trims 

New for 2020, you can choose between Premium and Premium Plus Audi S3 models. The 2020 Audi S3 Premium trim features 18-inch wheels, exterior LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and heated, power front seats with driver memory settings. A 10-speaker sound system with Audi’s MMI® smartphone interface with wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth® audio streaming connectivity is also standard. The 2020 Audi S3 Premium Plus has power folding exterior mirrors, LED interior ambient lighting, rear USB ports, a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen® premium sound system, and a Technology package. 

4. AWD traction 

Standard on every S3 model is the signature quattro® all-wheel drive system. The set-up will give you extra confidence on wet or slippery surfaces, meaning you can focus more on the 2020 Audi S3’s exhilarating driving experience. Agile through every corner, it’s really fun to drive with excellent and assured handling. The available Dynamic package adds adaptive suspension dampers and 19-inch wheels. Ideal for those solo drive scenarios. 

5. Easy on fuel 

The four-cylinder engine of the 2020 Audi S3 is potent but it also offers balanced fuel economy. An EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg combined for models fitted with 18-inch wheels is pleasing, taking into account how much pace it offers.

This makes it a great choice if you're looking for something practical for daily driving that also offers fun at the weekends.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2020 Audi S3 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Audi S3 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Audi S3 14th out of 25 among Luxury Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi S3

Audi S3 features and specs

Premium Plus S-Line 4WD/AWD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Navigation System
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear Spoiler

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

288

Torque (ft-lbs)

280

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

14.5

Wheelbase

103.6"

Overall length

175.8"

Width

70.7"

Height

54.8"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.1"

Head room

F 36.5"/R 36.1"

Front tires

P225/40YR18

Rear tires

P225/40YR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2020 Audi S3 FAQ

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