We hopped out of the softer, extra economy-tuned A3 right into a sporty S3 completed with a spicy Tango Crimson paint job. Instantly, we might inform these two machines had been constructed for various functions. Audi’s historically overlight steering feels sharper within the S3, particularly with the automobile positioned into its Dynamic setting. The wheel feels extra linked on-center than Audi’s bigger efficiency fashions, giving the S3 an enthusiastic edge that we like.
Although the A 35 and CLA 35 are extra rowdy on a again street, they’re far much less comfy and balanced. The place the AMG vehicles punish your backbone with stiff suspension, the S3’s elective obtainable sport suspension with damper management rides fantastically over tough pavement, making this probably the most livable automobile in its section. Inserting the suspension into Dynamic mode makes the S3 a bit agency for on a regular basis driving, however nonetheless extra bearable than the AMGs. Bigger 14.1-inch entrance brake discs assist convey the S3 right down to a fast halt, and for the primary time on this mannequin, all 4 discs are internally ventilated to maintain them cool.
The Audi S3 seems like probably the most well-balanced automobile in its aggressive class; extra thrilling than the BMW M235i however simpler to stay with than the AMG A35 and CLA 35. It is tiny dimensions let it squirt by way of tight bends with ease, extra gracefully than its bigger S4 sibling. And whereas the S4 now rolls with a traditional eight-speed computerized, the S3 retains its quick-shifting DCT that feels higher catered for enthusiastic driving. There’s noticeable turbo lag when you mash the throttle unexpectedly in the next gear, however the DCT can shortly determine the right gear. In its Dynamic setting, the transmission holds gears longer, giving faster entry to the obtainable energy. This automobile is remarkably fast when pushed accurately, nevertheless it lacks the always-available punch of a bigger engine. Place the S3 into Consolation or Auto mode, and it quiets down into a cushty cruiser.