1. Home
  2. Audi
  3. Audi S3
  4. 2018 Audi S3
  5. 2018 Audi S3 Sedan

2018 Audi S3 Sedan

2018 Audi S3
See All For Sale
MSRP range
$43,650 - $48,950
Edmunds Rating
8.1 out of 10
Consumer Rating
(1)
2018 Audi S3
See All For Sale
New
2018
2017
Used
2016
2015

Pros

  • Powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine
  • Upscale interior that looks and feels expensive
  • Precise handling that makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads
  • Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction

Cons

  • Small trunk won't fit much more than a couple small suitcases
  • Adults will feel cramped in the back seat
  • No manual transmission option
Compare dealer price quotes

2018 Audi S3 Sedan pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which S3 does Edmunds recommend?

There's not much of a difference between the S3's two available trim levels. You could go with the Premium Plus trim level, but if you want the Technology package to get the useful Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and premium audio system, you might as well just step up to the Prestige in our opinion. You get Technology package as standard as well as a few things you can't get on the Premium Plus, such as adaptive cruise control and a HomeLink garage door opener. Either way, get the S Sport package for its adaptive suspension dampers, which expand the S3's comfort and performance handling capabilities.

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

8.1 / 10

If you want the easy-to-drive qualities of Audi's entry-level sedan, the A3, but also desire greater acceleration and handling, shop the 2018 Audi S3. The S3's more powerful engine, performance-oriented tires, sport-tuned suspension and bigger brakes combine to deliver an exhilarating performance without degrading the car's all-around usability.

True, the S3 isn't as roomy as its more expensive sibling, the S4 sedan. But there's enough space for most uses, and the S3's cabin is still handsome and upscale. You can even get it with Audi's trick Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster. Fuel economy remains respectable, too. Factor in the S3's standard all-wheel drive and dual-clutch automatic transmission and you've got a very user-friendly — and reasonably affordable — luxury sport sedan.

2018 Audi S3 configurations

The 2018 Audi S3 is offered in two trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige. They are pretty similarly equipped, but the Prestige offers more standard technology features. All S3s have a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. That power is put to the ground through a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.

Standard features for the Premium Plus include 18-inch wheels, summer performance tires, keyless ignition and entry, front and rear parking sensors, selectable driving settings (known as Audi Drive Select), LED headlights, automatic wipers, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, power front sport seats, driver-seat memory settings, leather upholstery and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks.

For the Premium Plus, you also get a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, Audi's MMI electronics interface (with a console-mounted controller and a power-retractable display), Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, a USB port, and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player and satellite radio.

Optional for this trim is the Technology package, which includes an expanded digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit), an upgraded MMI system (with an improved display and a touch-sensitive controller), Audi Connect online services (with 4G LTE mobile Wi-Fi), native voice controls, a navigation system and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The Prestige adds the contents of the Technology package as standard plus heated and power-folding exterior mirrors (with driver-side auto-dimming), LED interior lighting, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and intervention, and two additional USB ports for the rear seating area.

Optional on both the Premium Plus and Prestige are a Black Optic Dynamic package (19-inch wheels with special exterior trim), an S Sport package (red brake calipers with adaptive suspension dampers) and an S Sport Seat package (manually adjustable front sport seats with premium leather upholstery). Stand-alone options include rear-seat side airbags and 18-inch wheels with all-season tires.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Audi S3 Prestige Quattro Sedan (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed dual-clutch automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Audi S3 has received a few revisions, including packaging changes and a revised in-car entertainment system. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's S3.

Driving

9.0
What happens when you combine a fantastic engine with a sensational chassis? You get the incredibly capable S3. The turbo-four is smooth and eager to rev, with a wallop of midrange torque. Handling is stunning, the steering near-perfect. Low-speed drivability could be improved.

Acceleration

9.5
The turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder feels stronger than 292 hp. Although it can be reluctant leaving the line, once it builds revs, it sprints forward, hitting 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and quick-shifting.

Braking

9.0
Excellent braking abilities; the pedal is always firm. It's a bit touchy at low speeds, but in most situations the brakes feel powerful and confidence-inspiring. In our panic-brake test, the S3 needed 107 feet to stop from 60 mph. That's a typical result for a car with performance-rated tires.

Steering

9.5
Incredibly sharp steering. It's quick without being darty. More importantly, it gives good feedback to the driver, meaning the electric assist steering doesn't completely isolate the road or the grip level of the tires from the driver.

Handling

9.5
This car is glued to the road, thanks to the sticky tires but also the stiff suspension that keeps body roll nearly nonexistent. Aim this car at a corner and it goes exactly where you point it.

Drivability

7.0
Drivability is marred slightly by touchy brakes in stop-and-go traffic and some delay from the engine and transmission when leaving a stoplight. But it has great passing power, feels light and small, and is generally an easy car to drive.

Comfort

7.0
The S3 doesn't coddle you like a luxury sedan. The seats don't have an abundance of cushioning. The ride is firm and not as supple as that of most BMWs, but the suspension is adjustable, and it never gets truly objectionable. Interior noise is kept to acceptable levels.

Seat comfort

7.0
The front seats have firm cushions, but they are wide and roomy, with less lateral support than most sport seats. The door armrests have soft cushioning. The rear seats provide enough support, but the seatback is quite upright.

Ride comfort

7.0
If you like a floaty ride, this isn't your car. Even the suspension's Comfort mode can feel stiff over rough roads. But some sport sedans are even less comfortable.

Noise & vibration

7.5
There's some tire hum on most surfaces, but wind noise is well controlled. You can hear the engine just slightly at highway speeds. The turbo-four makes exciting noises during acceleration.

Climate control

The standard dual-zone climate control uses a simple three-knob system for controls.

Interior

7.5
The interior is much like the A3's but with sportier, S3-specific touches throughout. Most controls work well, although the boost gauge is gimmicky. The trunk is small for the segment.

Ease of use

9.0
Despite the A3's minimalist interior design, the controls are where you expect them and are easy to use. We always turn the MMI knob the wrong direction, though. Love the infinitely swiveling circular dash vents. The optional finger-writing recognition is cool.

Getting in/getting out

5.5
The front doors are relatively long and open wide. The roof isn't too low, and you only have to stoop a bit. On the downside, the door sills are wide, and you can catch your foot on them when getting out. The rear doors are small.

Roominess

6.0
There's decent but not abundant front headroom, partly because the seat height is higher than you'd expect. Door-side elbow room is excellent. The center console infringes on the driver's right knee space. Rear headroom will be tight for most adults.

Visibility

7.5
The windshield roof pillars are very narrow, though the side pillars obstruct lane changes. The rear roof pillars are also thick, and the rear window is short. Our test car had the optional rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors.

Quality

9.0
Interior materials are high-quality, and they look good, too. Beautiful thick-rimmed steering wheel. The knobs and buttons have heft. We did notice a squeak from the plastic center console if we rubbed our knee against it.

Utility

6.0
It should be no surprise that trunk volume in a compact car is limited. But the rear seat folds down, and the available cubbies and cupholders are welcome.

Small-item storage

7.0
The door pockets are decent size, but the front bin is a tiny sliver. The center armrest bin is just large enough to be useful. The cupholders have good anti-tip design.

Cargo space

7.0
The 10-cubic-foot trunk is small, but the opening is wide. The rear seats fold down, and the pass-through is large.

Technology

The cool retractable center screen is intuitive, and it commands the MMI system. Bluetooth is standard, and the S3 is available with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot system.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Audi S3.

Overall Consumer Rating
5.01 reviews
Write a reviewSee all 1 reviews
5(100%)
4(0%)
3(0%)
2(0%)
1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

The Grover Dill of muscle cars
Smerdyakov,12/26/2017
The title is due to its small size and excellent performance. In fact, this car accelerates better than most of the highly vaunted muscle cars of the 1960s, while providing outstanding mileage and comfort. Contrary to what the Edmunds review states, my car has a seven speed DCT. I ended up getting the Prestige trim level, since my dealer did not have a Premium Plus car. I am very pleased with the performance of my car, but I wish that it had fewer electronic doodads. The Virtual Cockpit offers nothing useful to make it superior to the analog display that my A3 had, and it can be confusing at times. I do like the magnetic ride option, which gives a smoother, quieter ride than a standard suspension. My wife and I have become very fond of the Audi 3 series cars, due to their compact size and excellent maneuverability.
Write a review
See all 1 reviews
Write a consumer review of your vehicle for a chance to WIN $100!
See Official Rules for eligibility and other requirements.

Features & Specs

MSRP
$43,650
MPG
22 city / 28 hwy
Seats 5
7-speed automated manual
Gas
292 hp @ 5400 rpm
MSRP
$48,950
MPG
22 city / 28 hwy
Seats 5
7-speed automated manual
Gas
292 hp @ 5400 rpm
MSRP
$45,550
MPG
22 city / 28 hwy
Seats 5
7-speed automated manual
Gas
292 hp @ 5400 rpm
MSRP
$47,650
MPG
22 city / 28 hwy
Seats 5
7-speed automated manual
Gas
292 hp @ 5400 rpm
See all 2018 Audi S3 Sedan features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite S3 safety features:

Audi Adaptive Cruise
Maintains a set distance between you and the car ahead of you. Automatically accelerates and brakes as needed, with the ability to stop.
Audi Virtual Cockpit
Lets you keep your attention on the road by providing route guidance in the instrument panel right in front of you.
Rear Cross-Traffic Assist
Warns you if a vehicle may hit you as you're backing out of a spot. Perfect for small urban parking lots.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    Overall4 / 5
    Driver4 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
  • Side Barrier Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front Seat5 / 5
    Back Seat5 / 5
  • Rollover
    Rollover4 / 5
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of Rollover10.9%

Sponsored cars related to the S3

2018 Audi S3 Sedan for Sale

Audi S3 2018 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
New 2018
Audi S3
2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18
(11)
Audi Hunt Valley
54.3 mi away
MSRP$53,005
Est.Loan: $915/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE,S SPORT SEAT PACKAGE,BLACK OPTIC DYNAMIC PACKAGE,S SPORT PACKAGE,TANGO RED METALLIC,Sun/Moonroof,Leather Seats,SOUND ENHANCING RESONATOR DELETE KIT,HOMELINK - BLACK,USB CABLES,Keyless Start,Bluetooth Connection,Rear Spoiler,All Wheel Drive,BLACK W/ROCK GRAY STITCH; FINE NAPPA LEATHER SEATING SURFACES,DELETE FRONT LICENSE PLATE HOLDER
Audi S3 2018 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
26,766 miles
Used 2018
Audi S3
2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18
(1)
West Broad Volkswagen
96.6 mi away
List$44,995
Est.Loan: $819/mo
View Details
Dealer Notes
CARFAX One-Owner. Florett Silver Metallic 2018 Audi S3 quattro quattro 6-Speed Automatic S tronic 2.0L 4-Cylinder TFSI 19 inch wheels, 10 Speakers, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, ABS brakes, Air Conditioning, Alloy wheels, AMFM radio: SiriusXM, Audi Magnetic Ride, Auto-dimming Rear-View mirror, Automatic temperature control, Blind spot sensor: Audi Side Assist warning, Brake assist, Carbon Fiber Spoiler, CD player, Compass, Delay-off headlights, Electronic Stability Control, Exterior Parking Camera Rear, Fine Nappa Leather Seating Surfaces, Four wheel independent suspension, Front dual zone AC, Front fog lights, Headlight cleaning, Heated Front Sport Seats, Leather Seating Surfaces, Leather Shift Knob, Leather steering wheel, Low tire pressure warning, Outside temperature display, Power door mirrors, Power driver seat, Power moonroof, Power passenger seat, Power steering, Power windows, Radio data system, Rain sensing wipers, Rear fog lights, Rear window defroster, Red Brake Calipers, Remote keyless entry, S Sport Package, S Sport Seat Package, S Sport Seats, Security system, Speed control, Speed-sensing steering, Speed-Sensitive Wipers, Sport steering wheel, Steering wheel mounted audio controls, Tachometer, Telescoping steering wheel, Tilt steering wheel, Traction control, Turn signal indicator mirrors, Variably intermittent wipers. 2228 CityHighway MPG
Audi S3 2018 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
New 2018
Audi S3
2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18
(11)
Audi Hunt Valley
54.3 mi away
MSRP$54,095
Est.Loan: $933/mo
Fair Deal!Fair Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE,CARBON FIBER PACKAGE,BLACK OPTIC DYNAMIC PACKAGE,S SPORT PACKAGE,Leather Seats,Sun/Moonroof,MYTHOS BLACK METALLIC,AUDI BEAM-QUATTRO,All Wheel Drive,BLACK W/ROCK GRAY STITCH; FINE NAPPA LEATHER SEATING SURFACES

Get more for your trade-in

Edmunds shoppers get on average $235 more for their trade-in.

Receive offers from our dealer partners fast.

See your car's value
More about the 2018 Audi S3

Audi's A3 is a popular compact sedan thanks to its good looks, modern interior and peppy performance. Its size makes it easy to drive, and it has lots of bells and whistles, too. But what if you find the stock performance lacking? The S3 aims to fill the void with more power (186 or 220 hp versus 292 hp), larger brakes, stickier tires and more aggressive suspension calibration.

The S3 is available in two trims, Premium Plus and Prestige. They both share the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, six-speed, dual-clutch transmission, and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. But you'll probably most appreciate the modern and sophisticated interior, as well as standard technology features.

The Premium Plus S3 comes with 12-way power leather front seats with heating, panoramic sunroof, aluminum interior package with matte-brushed aluminum inlays, and a folding rear seat. From a technology perspective, the S3 features a 10-speaker stereo system that receives AM/FM, HD and satellite radio. It also interfaces with Bluetooth, with an auxiliary input jack and two USB ports. This system also features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay so your smartphone can integrate directly with the car. Keyless entry and ignition are standard, of course.

The Prestige adds a Bang & Olufsen stereo system with 14 speakers, Audi's Virtual Cockpit dashboard system, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic assist, and built-in navigation.

From a market perspective, the S3 is in an interesting spot. It offers more dynamic performance than some larger Japanese and European sport sedans, but it's priced higher. It has more doors and more cargo volume than some of its German coupe competitors. Nevertheless, the S3 has the just-right size while being a fun companion whether you're in the city or the mountains. And unlike other Audi models, the S3 has just about all the good stuff standard. The only other packages available are an S Sport Seat package that includes awesome quilted leather bucket seats, a Dynamic package that features larger 19-inch wheels and adjustable dampers, a Black Optic package that includes titanium matte 19-inch wheels, adjustable dampers, blacked-out exterior body kit, and mirror caps in body color, and a new S Sport package that includes red brake calipers and adjustable dampers.

From our perspective, the hot setup would be the Premium Plus trim with the S Sport seats, or go for maximum technology and opt for the Prestige. Either way, let Edmunds be your guide to finding your perfect 2018 Audi S3.

2018 Audi S3 Sedan Overview

The 2018 Audi S3 Sedan is offered in the following styles: 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), 2.0 TFSI Prestige quattro w/Prod. End 6/18 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro Summer of Audi 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), and 2.0 TFSI Prestige quattro Summer of Audi 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM).

What do people think of the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 S3 Sedan 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 S3 Sedan.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 S3 Sedan featuring deep dives into trim levels including 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18, 2.0 TFSI Prestige quattro w/Prod. End 6/18, 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro Summer of Audi, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Read our full review of the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan here.

Edmunds Scorecard

Overall8.1 / 10

Driving

9.0 / 10

Acceleration9.5 / 10
Braking9.0 / 10
Steering9.5 / 10
Handling9.5 / 10
Drivability7.0 / 10

Comfort

7.0 / 10

Seat comfort7.0 / 10
Ride comfort7.0 / 10
Noise & vibration7.5 / 10

Interior

7.5 / 10

Ease of use9.0 / 10
Getting in/getting out5.5 / 10
Roominess6.0 / 10
Visibility7.5 / 10
Quality9.0 / 10

Utility

6.0 / 10

Small-item storage7.0 / 10
Cargo space7.0 / 10
Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2018 Audi S3 Sedan?

Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.

Which 2018 Audi S3 Sedans are available in my area?

2018 Audi S3 Sedan Listings and Inventory

There are currently 2 new 2018 Audi S3 Sedans listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $53,005 and mileage as low as 10 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,631 on a new, used or CPO 2018 Audi S3 Sedan available from a dealership near you.

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Audi S3 Sedan for sale near you.

Can't find a new 2018 Audi S3 S3 Sedan you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Audi S3 for sale - 12 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $9,686.

Find a new Audi for sale - 8 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $18,648.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan and all available trim types: 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro w/Prod. End 6/18, 2.0 TFSI Prestige quattro w/Prod. End 6/18, 2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro Summer of Audi, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2018 Audi S3 Sedan include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Audi S3?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Audi lease specials

Related vehicle information

2018 Audi S3 Information

Related 2018 Audi S3 Vehicles

More Audi S3 Vehicles by Year

Related Audi Vehicles