Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) Review and Prices
The Audi S3 Sportback is the five-door version of the three-door hatchback. Its rivals are the Mercedes A45 AMG, the BMW M140i and the VW Golf R. You can also have the S3 as a convertible.
- Used
- £16,900
What's good
What's not so good
Find out more about the Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020)
Is the Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) a good car?
You’d have to look hard to spot the differences between an Audi S3 Sportback interior and a regular A3 S-Line one, but seeing how the similarities are quality materials and impeccable finish, that’s not a bad thing. The five-door body shape also liberates more passenger room in the rear as well as more space in the boot.
The Audi S3 Sportback is extremely quick point to point. Partly because it’s lighter than its predecessor and partly because of the quattro four-wheel-drive system that makes it more manageable on slippery roads than the rear-wheel-drive BMW M140i. Admittedly the ride is still very firm, but just about comfortable for most.
Engine wise, the Audi S3 Sportback is hard to fault – it has a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol that gets one of the best in that size. It packs 305hp and, with the help of the quattro 4WD, accelerates from 0-62mph in less than five seconds – faster than a Ferrari Testarossa supercar from the 90s.
This being one of the most expensive versions of the A3 Sportback means that it gets plenty of equipment that is optional on lesser models – 18-inch alloy wheels, heated leather-upholstered sport seats and a 5.8-inch screen for the infotainment that rises from the dashboard.
The S3 is incredibly fast and can even pass as practical even if it doesn't look nearly as special as it actually is
The old S3 was a good car that had little competition at the price. However, the new Audi S3 Sportback faces more accomplished rivals such as the faster, but more expensive A45 AMG, the fun to drive, but less spacious M140i and the great all-rounder (and cheaper) VW Golf R. Get the S3 Sportback for its all-round performance and superb interior or choose the cheaper Golf R and spend the money you save on some nice optional extras.
How much is the Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020)?
The Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) has a RRP range of £32,100 to £39,075. The price of a used Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) on Carwow starts at £16,900.
How practical is it?
Yes, this is a very fast car, but you could use it as an everyday family car, as it has a proper four-seater cabin and a decent boot. However, you’ll struggle to get three people across the back seat in comfort
This is proof that you can have your cake and eat it: a seriously fast car that is also a practical family hatchback. If only it had better fuel economy...
What's it like to drive?
Standard quattro all-wheel drive helps seemingly cement the Audi S3 Sportback to the road, giving the driver huge confidence to explore the limits of the car.
The approachable S3 is perfect if you want a fast car but don't have the driving skills of Lewis Hamilton
What's it like inside?
Build quality takes centre stage and that only helps the solid image of the S3.
Audi S3 Sportback (2017-2020) colours
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- Used
- £16,900