2024 Audi S3 Review For The New Zealand Buyer

The Audi S3 has made its debut in New Zealand graced in a refreshed look exuding an elegant and sleek appearance from the front to rear. Borrowing a few design cues from the RS 3, this car which is available as a hatchback is taking the game a notch higher. The inside exudes an aura of hospitality adorned by leather and soft touches. Under the hood is a powerful engine that delivers a thrilling driving experience full of zest. As much as it boasts the perks of an excellent car, it faces stiff competition from the BMW M135i, Mercedes AMG A35, Volkswagen Golf R, and Cadillac CT4-V.

Engine Options

The 2024 Audi S3 comes with one engine option.

  1. 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol

Transmission Options

The 2024 Audi S3 engine is linked to a 7-speed S Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission.

2024 Audi S3 Grades

  • Audi S3 Hatchback

For a detailed review of these grades and the best pick while buying this car, kindly refer to the 2024 Audi S3 Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Audi S3 Interior

The 2024 Audi S3 continues to uphold the design cues of Audi providing a comfortable, functional, and spacious cabin. Leather upholstery, soft touches, and a bit of plastic grace the thoughtfully laid-out cabin. With a seating arrangement for five, both the first and second rows offer ample legroom and headroom. The heated and ventilated seats are not only comfy but also very supportive.

The 2024 Audi S3 boasts sound acoustic elements that cushion the ears of its occupants from outside noises. A panoramic sunroof allows natural light to flood into the cabin creating a tranquil atmosphere that instills peace of mind. Convenience is enhanced through its keyless entry and start. The thoroughly insulated cabin shields the occupants from outside noises. A dual-zone climate control ensures room temperature is maintained to match the feel and like of the passengers. It encompasses multiple storage compartments used to either store or hold the gears of the occupants for ease of access. The first row has a center console, two cupholders, a glove box, and door panel storage. The second row is fitted with jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets.

The 2024 Audi S3 is not only centered on luxury and comfort. Entertainment is another key component the S3 has its time and resources invested in. Equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple Car Play & Android Auto, the occupant’s devices can be connected to the vehicle’s system. Other features include a wireless charger, Bluetooth connectivity, multiple USB ports, AM/FM Radio, and a 12-volt power outlet.

2024 Audi S3 Exterior

The 2024 Audi S3 is available in a hatchback design. One is guaranteed a good value for money as sport back body design exudes a sleek, elegant, and contemporary appearance. The front end is distinguished by a hexagonal grille furnished with gloss-black embellishments stamping the presence of the S3. The angular LED headlights and daytime running lights flanking the grille inject a modern look as the front bumper is integrated with aggressive air intakes which help in cooling the engine for better performance.

The side profile is characterized by expertly crafted contours running from the front fenders to the rear creating an imagination of a vehicle in motion even though the car is stationery. The door handles are body-colored as the mirror caps are integrated with an auto-dimming feature creating more allure. The 18-inch alloy wheels not only provide a firm grip on the road but also enhance the overall appearance of the S3. The hatchback has a gently sloping roofline where it integrates with a roof spoiler at the back lending the vehicle a sporty appeal.

The rear encompasses LED taillights and turn signals matching the front headlights for a cohesive look. The power liftgate is adorned by the iconic four rings Audi insignia asserting the command of the vehicle wherever it traverses. The rear bumper houses dual exhaust tips providing a clean and uncluttered appearance.

2024 Audi S3 Carrying Capacity/Cargo Capacity

The 2024 Audi S3 offers 325 liters of cargo space when all seats are in use. To create more room, the rear seats can be retracted.

2024 Audi S3 Fuel Consumption

  • 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol fuel consumption- 13.5 km/l

2024 Audi S3 Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2024 Audi S3 has a fuel tank capacity of 55 liters.

2024 Audi S3 Ground Clearance

The 2024 Audi S3 has a ground clearance of 4.7 inches.

2024 Audi S3 Performance

The 2024 Audi S3 is available in one engine option, a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol churning out 328HP and 420NM of torque. This powertrain delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is unmatched in the competitive category it sits in. Enthusiasts who are after power and performance will find it in this engine.

The 2024 Audi S3 offers a sturdy and pleasant ride. The steering wheel is very responsive providing excellent feedback. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections cushioning the occupants from experiencing jarring movements. The cabin is properly insulated preventing outside noise from causing discomfort to the passengers. The driver has excellent visibility and command of the surrounding traffic.  Owing to its spirited drive, it is equipped with a robust braking system with high stopping power ready to avert any kind of disaster.

Equipped with a host of driver assist systems which include a lane departure warning, a blind spot monitor, an autonomous emergency brake system, a lane-keep assist, and a rear-cross traffic alert, the 2024 Audi S3 provides a secure and safe ride.

2024 Audi S3 Reliability

Audi has consistently been highly ranked when it comes to reliability owing to its meticulous attention to detail, durability, efficiency, and quality when crafting its vehicles. The S3 is not an exception. Powered by a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol engine used in the previous iteration, this car is expected not to experience any reliability issues due to the time, tweaks, and improvements done on its powertrain. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition.

2024 Audi S3 Maintenance Schedule

At 5,000 km the 2024 Audi S3 requires a change of the air filter, engine oil, and oil filter. At 10,000 km, this vehicle requires an air cleaner, oil filter, fuel filter, ATF filter, cabin filters, plugs, front brake pads, rear brake pads, ATF oil, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, and engine oil.

For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, click here to download the 2024 Audi S3 Owner’s Manual.

2024 Audi S3 Competitors

  • BMW M135i
  • Mercedes AMG A35
  • Volkswagen Golf R
  • Cadillac CT4-V