Created to do battle against the likes of BMW M135i, Mercedes-AMG A45, and to some extent, the VW Golf R, Audi’s squeaky-new S3 Sportback (and Sedan) debuts two decades after the original S3 hit the shelves. And we like what we’re seeing.

What powers the Audi S3?

That’s an increase of five horsepower over the previous model, while torque remains untouched.

Routing these resources to all four wheels is Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive, with a little bit of help from a hydraulic multi-plate clutch positioned in front of the rear axle.

Whether it’s the Sedan or the Sportback you look at, they both need 4.8 seconds to zap from 0 to 100 kph (0-62 mph) an on to a top speed of 250 kph (155 mph).

Audi S3 specifications

Translated into street performance, the 0-60 sprint times look like this on paper:

While in terms of top speed, we’ve got complete equality:

Other mechanical tweaks include a lowered suspension (by 0.6 inches), the option of having the S sport suspension with damper control, a new electric brake booster, ventilated discs on all four corners, black (or red, optional) calipers, as well as 18-inch wheels (upgradable to 19-inch ones).

OK, but what’s it like on the inside?

Well, nothing changes from the regular A3 expect for nifty little details and S badges that let you know you’re inside the baddest A3 of them all - aluminum, carbon fiber, and sport seats with upholstery crafted out of recycled PET bottles with the compulsory contrasting stitching.

On the cargo space front, the S3 Sportback still offers 325 liters (1,145 with the rear seats folded down), which translates to 11.5 cubic feet and 40.4 cubic feet, respectively. The S3 Sedan ups the ante with 370 liters worth of cargo space (13.1 cubic feet).

Ambient lighting is also on the table, as is smartphone connectivity compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

How much will I have to pay for one?

We can’t give you U.S. prices yet, but in Germany, the 2020 Audi S3 Sportback starts at €46,302 ($54,800, roughly), while the Sedan will set you back €47,179 (around $55,800).

FAQ

Q: How does the S3 fare against the competition?

The Audi S3's main rivals are the Mercedes-AMG A45, the BMW M135i, and the Volkswagen Golf R. As things stand right now, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG A45 makes 416 horsepower and 369 pound-feet, the M135i is good for 302 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of twist, while the Golf R produces 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet.

Q: How is the Audi S3 different from the regular A3 design-wise?

To be completely honest, the new Audi S3’s design is quite similar to the S-line version of the standard A3, except some blackened out bits and bobs and the S badge on the front Singleframe grille - which also gets a more detailed, albeit chunkier hexagonal mesh pattern. In the rear, the visual package is completed by four exhaust tailpipes and a race-style diffuser.

On top of these bits and bobs, customers can also specify matrix LED headlights.