2025 Audi S3 Gets More Power and the RS 3’s Rear Diff!
New 2025 Audi S3 retains the four-cylinder powerplant but gains a bit more power with better brakes, suspension, and the RS 3’s legendary torque-splitting rear differential.
The Audi S3 already holds a special place in our hearts. So, to see it getting upgrades rather than lateral moves with the introduction of a new model year is truly heartwarming to any Audi enthusiast. It’s easy to see how folks might overlook the S3 in making the jump from the A3 straight to the RS 3. However, it still stands alone as a phenomenal performance car with an attainable price tag and the 2025 updates are making it even more attractive.
MotorTrend brought us a first look at the new 2025 Audi S3 and its updates. It’s got all sorts of upgrades spanning from the engine and transmission to power distribution and suspension. Let’s dive into these updates to really get you a taste of the incoming S3 model.
Sorry, No Drift Mode
Audi did indeed integrate the variable torque splitting system from the RS 3 to the incoming 2025 S3 models. However, the outstanding Drift Mode feature that the RS 3 has remains exclusive to that model. However, MotorTrend does point out that the new S3 comes with a “Dynamic Plus” mode, which sends as much torque as possible to the rear axle. In Sport Mode, it’s still being checked by stability control, but Audi did tune it to allow it to slide if you’re really pushing it. A little oversteer is a satisfying and beneficial thing in the right conditions.
The powertrain remains the same as the ’24 model year, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. However, it does get a bit of a bump in power to 333 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That’s an upgrade of 23 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque compared to the outgoing model and matches the Golf R. In addition, the seven-speed transmission now has stronger clutch compression for higher starting torque and, thus, more aggressive and rapid acceleration.
Suspension and Brake Upgrades Round Out the 2025 Audi S3
Audi added a new pivot bearing to the front McPherson strut axle assembly. This allows up to double the negative wheel camber up front compared to the outgoing model. As a result, the 2025 S3 is capable of more grip through high-G cornering. In addition, 18-inch steel breaks with an additional 4mm of thickness compared to the outgoing rotors means more heat resistance and better stopping power. Finally, optional Falken sport tires round out the handling upgrades that make the S3 a perfect blend of track and daily usability.
Though we don’t have any official information on U.S.-specific details, we’ll be sure to keep you updated the moment they’re available! All things considered, it’s looking like the 2025 Audi S3 is going to be a killer step forward for an already fun model.
Photos: Audi
