Totally agree his voice is so calming and clear and his videos are like your driving the car. I always end up back to his videos for each vehicle I look up. The best!
Respect for mentioning how thin tire sidewalls and huge rims is not a good combination for potholes. It seems most car reviewers just emphasize how good the largest rim options look and hardly ever explain that those will get damaged the quickest, not to mention rougher ride quality and easier curb damage.
Audis are among my favorite vehicles. They do such a good job with the drivers experience from the interior department to the sound and feel of the car. Very nice!
As far as I know you can actually change how fast the car accelerates while using the „self driving“ cruise control. The Audi A6 Hybrid I got to drive on a business trip earlier this year was accelerating pretty fast on its own. Definitely a great feature.
I just switched to 18" wheels on my '18 Civic Type R and it is the best decision I have ever made. Hitting potholes with these very thin tires like on this S3 are not worth the stress and hassle. Now I have thick PS4S and I run over potholes like I'm trying to murder them with no issue.
Sometimes they show up on the road and you don't know exactly when and where. We don't always have the same commute to work or wherever. This was a very lazy response by the way.
@@jerbsherb4391 "i run over potholes like i'm trying to murder them with no issue" So he obviously sees them and wont bother avoiding it. Looks like hes the lazy driver here
Looking at buying a 2023 used.. with less than 10k miles theyre going for around 40k around me with a warrenty. These videos you made definitely sold me on this car. I know youve done a lot since these reviews, but i still want to say thank you for taking pride in your work and putting in the extra effort to make these videos so detailed and cinematic. Youre reviews are hands down my favorite on youtube, and i get a sense of genuineness that a lot of other car reviewers lack.
The interior buttons alone would sway me into this over a Golf R, as much as I would miss the hatch practicality. Agree on the wheel size, but not feeling the sound very much to be honest, tho granted, I haven’t heard one in person. I’d definitely pull the fake sound fuse if I got one of these. Honestly, I think some other options on the market might tempt me at $45-55k (G70 3.3T, Stinger GT, Giulia, TLX Type S, etc), but definitely wouldn’t fault anyone for choosing this.
I agree with you. Some people say it's stupid to get an S3 cause the golf r is about $10k cheaper and it's the "same car". I really like the way the S3 looks, the tech, interior quality, luxury, exhaust and the AWD system is a lot better than the one in the Golf R. So with all these other things, you can't expect it to cost the same price just because it has the same engine.
This is all down to individual taste and needs. For me, the golf is a much better way to go - I spend quite a bit if time in Europe and the S3 Hatchback would be a no brainer if sold here. BTW the AWD system in the Golf is superior to the S3 and the same as the RS3. I have to have a hatchback - so, I did not consider the S3 - it's obviously a very good car, but as equipped it is not $10K better. I own a 2022 Golf R and love it!
@@BN99239 Both at this point no? The S3 has less in cabin tech, and is using the older AWD system. The R shares it's AWD with the RS3 now, using the Magna system. No heated steering, no ventilated seats, no rear passenger climate, need to go up trim levels for a HUD. It's a bad value proposition for the S3- unless you truly hate the MK8 infotainment so much that you are willing to spend an extra 5-10k, to still get an inferior AWD system.
Agreed about the 19 inch wheels, especially in the northeast. Have had to replace 4 tires in less than 2 years because of potholes, which is why not offering a spare on this new generation is a big mistake.
The S3 is awesome! It's the perfect daily driver in my opinion. The turbo 4 is very punchy and healthy, yet efficient. I can get upwards of 34 MPG on the freeway. The dual clutch gearbox is sharp and the quattro AWD system makes it great for year round use. The interior is also well appointed. The materials used and fit and finish are great. I paid under MSRP for mine and for right around $50K, you're getting a lot of car! It's also very practical with usable interior room, yet it has a light curb weight and is dimensionally on the smaller side which makes parking and getting in and out of traffic a breeze. I think you sacrifice too much in terms of value and efficiency by going with the S4 or S5 for example. I also didn't find the RS3 worth the extra at minimum $10K... Most of them are priced at $15-20K more. The 100HP difference between the two is a lot but a tune and downpipe on an S3 for maybe $1500 total will make more than an RS3 by a healthy amount. I don't think the parts availability and overall reliability will be as good for the 5 cylinder either. More expensive to maintain and insure as well. I sound like a salesperson here, but the S3 really is that good. Lol.
Nice video. I just bought a '23 S3 and paid the $1500 for a spare wheel and tire, which takes up most of the trunk. But as you say, it's scary not having one, and those tire patch kits are useless if the sidewall is punctured. Aso, sir, the fact that the S3 is a great car doesn't mean the RS3 is necessarily better. I had a '20 RS3 which was incredibly fast, but not necessarily more fun. Each car has its own character, balance, poise, personality. It's nice to be able to use all of a car's power, and that's tough with the RS3. Thanks again.
I'd get into too much trouble in an RS3. Plus the harder you drive it,, the sooner it'll need maintenance and other costs. My S3 keeps me tame and still fun as hell when I need it to be.
Long time viewer driving the new rs3 right now. The rs3 has decent turbo lag at times and was wondering if the s3 has less turbo lag if you don't mind and other reasons you think it drives better.
Would you rather this or the GR86/BRZ for a daily? I have the 23 S3 right now and love it but its so high tech and I feel like the driving experience suffers a little. The car wants to do so much for you. I had a Evo X and a 2018 S3 prior to this and they both were much more "fun" to drive and felt more raw in my opinion. My buddy has a 23 GR86 that he turbo'd and when I drove that I felt the same feeling I did with my two prior cars. Just curious since I know you daily a BRZ
I actually read about people who turned the pumped in exhaust-audio off, and reported that the sound is still as good, just more subdued. Wich speaks for there actually not being anything artificial about the sound, other than its volume. My next question is: HOW the hell did they make it sound like a 5 cylinder? Would be so nice to be able to modify all inline 4:s in that way!
Ive driven alot of cars M cars Rs cars but for some reason i had fun in a S3 more comfortable less punishing and not way slower then those cars . Pretty competitive speed 😁
Great review I have a 2023 S3 on order hopefully should come in by October-November, and from the looks of it in your review it looks like I made the right choice.
I ordered mine in March but since it's now being delivered in 10 days, they told me it's a 2023 so that's ok....I took the black optics package with stereo and charger....Congrats on your purchase! I've been back monthly to the dealership to drive it once or twice a month and I'm so happy I chose this over the STI, A4, Golf R and the M235i....
I like your review. I am in UK and have the S3 saloon in Ibis white. I love it. I agree with you. mine had adaptive cruise too, but not many of other features and I am on 18" tyres but all weather. I had an unregulated S4 2015, so a lot slower, but really in a way I love this, but I do not need 200mph/ 320kph in Germany anymore. This is fast enough and I love mine. I would advise a ceramic coating though. Costs a bit, but really worthwhile... You may send comments if you want. I love this video
I despise 2016 grey with a passion, I'm sick of seeing it. Other than that it seems like a rad little car, especially in either of the blue paint options. Losing the trick diff from the Golf R might be worth it if it means you get blessed with a vastly superior user experience with delightful physical controls and a nicer interior.
This car is so near perfect that I'd stretch as much as I could for it.... just wish it was a hatch. They should teach VW how to make interiors. And buttons.
I'm sure they know HOW to make interiors. They're basically the same company. VWs are purposefully not as luxurious as Audis. Don't want to risk cannibalizing the Audi brand by making its less expensive counterpart too similar.
@thetopher If you had a choice between the Audi S3 and RS3 - which would you choose? Currently, I am the market for a new car and have narrowed my options down to those two options. Unfortunately, none of the local dealerships ever have either of those models in stock and when they do that are immediately sold - so I am unable to test drive either. I am seeking an executive luxury daily driver with power/kick and extremely smooth shifting. I have no intention of ever drifting but tend to have a lead foot on the highway lol so would like the ability to do high speeds easily. The 5 cylinder engine on the RS3 sounds so tempting but I wonder if it's too much power. Any thoughts?
Tbh I didn’t really like the RS3, which was a shame because I wanted to love it. It brutally fast, awesome when driving quickly but everywhere else it wasn’t a smooth driving experience, always boosting and then falling out of boost when shifting into the next gear. The s3 was about perfect imo. Only thing I didn’t like was how loud impacts were on the 19” wheels over our rough roads/potholes here in MI. Otherwise, the 2.0t was much better tuned for daily driving. Lots of low down torque the RS3 didn’t have and they sound shockingly similar with whatever Audi is using as a soundaktor. I’d try test driving a previous generation (used) RS3 to see how you like it though, since the power delivery/feel won’t be that different except for the new rear diff.
@TheTopher What about when compared to the Audi S4? I watched your previous video on the S4 and similar to the RS3 you seemed disappointed in its use as a daily driver. Would you too prefer the Audi S3 over the Audi S4 ?
I have the 8v and agree 100% with 18"s it came with 19s and im constantly swerving to avoid potholes, ride is way too harsh.. also rear dampers (mine is a saloon) should be replaced banging noises over humps
I wish you didn't fiddle as much with paddles, it's hard to judge how the transmission behaves if you are constantly going into manual mode. Maybe do a segment in D, then S, then some M modes. It will give better impression of what to expect.
@@evaristocorripio5434 those are stock numbers. My friend did 340HP safely with stock turbo. He ran 12.1 in the Quartermile with stock turbo. If he wasn’t FWD he woulda been in 11s. It’s crazy for a car that was worth 26k in 2019 and with not much money you are faster than many more cars. The great thing about it is the engine “ ea888” has been tuned and tested safely for years. The company APR offers to make your car 300HP while still keeping your warranty that’s how safe these engines are
Two weeks ago I sold my '19 SS 1LE Camaro and picked up a 2020 S3 and i'm super pleased with my decision haha. I've done an intake, turbo inlet & res delete so far, I have a JB4 i'm going to fit soon (it's CPO and i'm going to hold off on mapping until i know for sure i'm going to keep it). Such a fun car and IMO one of the best daily drivers there is.
@@jaychesterman8197 nice dude! I think you can see from my profile pic that I agree with everything you said. Running stage1+ unitronic tune on mine (also a 2020) and its damn fast. I came from a bunch of GTIs before this so its crazy to have all this traction now.
I'm not looking to get a new car for another... Hm, 16-24 months? If Audi doesn't change much in the 2023 or 2024 model I think this review sold me on it.
$55k puts this squarely in the M240i's yard, and the BMW wins in almost every respect, unless you absolutely need 4 doors. I will say that the Audi has better exterior...and those matrix lights are sharp.
Physical buttons work well in a car, touch buttons should only be for industrial equipment on a 45 degree angle so you can use gravity to press with confidence instead of touch hovering a button while in a car that is moving in all directions.
The fact it does not have the active rear diff that is in the R, and that you need to go to the top trim just to get a decent stereo and nice headlights is lamentable, with the middle trim being a bunch of non-enthusiast add-ons (lane departure, etc.) If the base model was available with the better diff and had the nice stereo as an option, this would be a winner. Heck swap the top and middle trims around so 50k gets you a well sorted model, and this would more desirable.
See that's what most people don't get with the R. They don't realize that you only need to pay one price (at least for NA) to get everything while you have to fork over extra $$$ to get the same level of trim in its competitors. I'm not sure though if the Corolla GR pricing will be competitive though
The argument against having a S3 hatch/ wagon is something I don’t get. Europe gets both, and they both sell well. Why wouldn’t it do well in the states?
I bought a brand new 2015 Premium Plus S3 when it first came out. Had nonstop problems with it as soon as I drove it off the lot. Check engine and EPC lights a week after I bought it for cylinder deactivation, Haldex failed at 6k miles and again at 60k miles, transmission failed, engine blew. It was a nightmare but I loved it when it worked. Sold the S3 at 64k miles and vowed to never buy another 4 cylinder/haldex Audi. But this new one is making me want one again.
@@layne4376 well I had a 2015 A3 and had absolutely no issues what so ever. My friend also had a 2017 S3 and had absolutely no issues. Not even a tiny hiccup.
Love these and the Golf R. I wish VAG would put the 2.5 5cyl from the RS3/TTRS in the Golf R tho. That would make it more worth the price difference between it and the GTI i believe.
I’d take a vwdub arteon just because it’s practical and none are on the road anywhere. And because it’s packing pretty much the same power and in its last year sadly 😢
I’d never lease, period. But between an Audi and a BMW…. I don’t know 🤷 it’s a toss for me. Audi has more leg room and slightly bigger trunk. I love the hydraulic steering in the 3-Series but haven’t test driven a A4 or A3 yet.
Non car comment here... I just find it strange that its April and you're still dealing w snow and very cold temps. While here in AZ weather is absolutely beautiful.
Funny how the US doesn't get the Sportback version, probably because they wouldn't sell very well, but in the EU we have both and over 90% easily of A3's are Sportbacks.
Audi has always been my favorite German car manufacturer. I’ve always loved Audi but I don’t think I could ever get one because of the reliability, same goes with all the other German cars.
The upshifts seem a tad slower than expected. I've seen other videos of the golf 8 which had more responsive shifts but it's weird cause they are supposed have the same exact gearbox. Different tuning maybe.
Very informative review from someone living in the same region. Pot holes are a big issue around the area. Do you think you could live with those 19 inch wheels or they are really a liability here? I ask this because I'm really interested in the new RS3, but it doesn't seem you can get 18 inch wheels on that.
You might be able to fit aftermarket 18s on the RS3, but you’re right, no factory option that I know of. Just get that wheel and tire insurance! And have a good spare on hand.
There are 2 things that I dislike on this car . The F-shaped headlights are ugly , if they were like the lights from the A4 B9.5 the front would look soo much better . The second thing are the Air vents that are positioned soo high they just look like they had to put them somewhere in the last moment so they put them where they found space . Other than that I love this thing.
There are quicker cars, better handling and nicer interiors; however, the balance of variable compromises the S3 executes is second to none IMO. A great daily jack of all trades 👏 I only hate the ridiculous volume touch pad.
@@v8713 I know 😖 and I don't know anyone who wants this new tech, it's like the designers and engineers don't care about the market anymore, they just copy each other even if something is fundamentally worse, just like gloss black interiors!
@@akent46 So... use the buttons on the steering wheel when driving under "substandard (one word, btw) roads" and, for some reason, going "Golly jeepers, I'm hitting potholes *and* I have to switch sounds right this second!"
An sich ein schönes Auto aber mir gefällt die „neue“ Mittelkonsole nicht. Ich fand den schönen großen Hebel in der Mitte immer am ansprechendsten. Dieses kleine Ding da sieht irgendwie blöd aus. 😅
Everybody cries about what they can't have and then doesn't buy it when it's available because of some tiny flaw. Reference, MaNuAlS, TuRbO aLl=WhElL dRivE mAnUaL wAgOn, etc. Meanwhile, cars that were foolishly ordered as manuals, wagons, and hatchbacks for stock sit on lots for months because NOBODY BUYS THEM.
Rather have a B9 A4 for the longitudinal and rear-bias layout. Plus a simple flash tune would get you more power than this has stock. Of course the RS3 would trump them all.
only downside is the A4 is running older interior design and the gauge cluster/safety tech like the adaptive cruise control isn't the newest Level 2 system.
Just saying the new A4 is using Audis “Quattro Ultra” which is basically means it’s fwd till it detects slip. The only Audis now with a Torsen center diff and rear bias driving style w/ Sport diff are the S and RS models.
The A4 is longitudinal but not rear-bias; it's a front-biased system where the rears are decoupled most of the time. You need an S or RS model to get the rear-biased arrangement.
i heard about it but holy molly. US roads are in horrible conditions! I even consider fitting my S3 with 20" for the summer set when it finally arrives. That is only possible because neither mine nor neighboring countries have such bad roads.
You can watch the POV winter night drive here: th-cam.com/video/n_Cbf88XEfE/w-d-xo.html
There aren’t any good driving roads in saginaw):
Aye Topher Do A Review Of The Audi R8 Manual Looking To Get One Soon So Would Love And Appreciate A Review Done By You On It
I love your videos so much. They help calm me down after a stressful day! You have a great voice for a podcast.
Suspect
Yeah he has good voice for a podcast very calming voice
Totally agree his voice is so calming and clear and his videos are like your driving the car. I always end up back to his videos for each vehicle I look up. The best!
Lol
Respect for mentioning how thin tire sidewalls and huge rims is not a good combination for potholes. It seems most car reviewers just emphasize how good the largest rim options look and hardly ever explain that those will get damaged the quickest, not to mention rougher ride quality and easier curb damage.
I have a 21 s4 and I always look forward to switching to my 18" winter setup for the improved ride quality.
I just bought a s3 and the front left rim got ripped at the car wash from them but the car wash fault they had a guard off
I bought 18 inch aftermarket wheels for 18 inch snow tires.
Bought even 16 inch tires. Looks awful, but definitely less noise and more comfortable than 18 inch
This Audi looks like so much fun. Considering everything this car offers, that isn't a bad price.
Audis are among my favorite vehicles. They do such a good job with the drivers experience from the interior department to the sound and feel of the car. Very nice!
As far as I know you can actually change how fast the car accelerates while using the „self driving“ cruise control. The Audi A6 Hybrid I got to drive on a business trip earlier this year was accelerating pretty fast on its own. Definitely a great feature.
I just switched to 18" wheels on my '18 Civic Type R and it is the best decision I have ever made. Hitting potholes with these very thin tires like on this S3 are not worth the stress and hassle. Now I have thick PS4S and I run over potholes like I'm trying to murder them with no issue.
Or try avoiding them instead of running through it
Sometimes they show up on the road and you don't know exactly when and where. We don't always have the same commute to work or wherever. This was a very lazy response by the way.
@@jerbsherb4391 "i run over potholes like i'm trying to murder them with no issue"
So he obviously sees them and wont bother avoiding it. Looks like hes the lazy driver here
@@Chocobohunter I think he was using hyperbole.
@@Chocobohunter If you read that again, he mentions that in regards to the new tires. Not the thin ones he had before.
The engine sound they're piping in is very reminiscent of the inline 5 in the rs3
I absolutely loathe the fact that it's fake though. Cool if it actually had that sound, can't stand fake sound -_-
@@dewjustin It's better this way. Doesn't disturb other drivers if you want to be a hoon.
@@paulklp8262 “disturb other drivers” lmao wtf
My 23 S3 sounds way better/crazier than my old GLA45
Looking at buying a 2023 used.. with less than 10k miles theyre going for around 40k around me with a warrenty. These videos you made definitely sold me on this car. I know youve done a lot since these reviews, but i still want to say thank you for taking pride in your work and putting in the extra effort to make these videos so detailed and cinematic. Youre reviews are hands down my favorite on youtube, and i get a sense of genuineness that a lot of other car reviewers lack.
The interior buttons alone would sway me into this over a Golf R, as much as I would miss the hatch practicality. Agree on the wheel size, but not feeling the sound very much to be honest, tho granted, I haven’t heard one in person. I’d definitely pull the fake sound fuse if I got one of these. Honestly, I think some other options on the market might tempt me at $45-55k (G70 3.3T, Stinger GT, Giulia, TLX Type S, etc), but definitely wouldn’t fault anyone for choosing this.
it's a shame you guys don't have the hatch :(
@@essayedgar I know. Its so dumb.
what you get
I despise hatchbacks. I'll use a truck if I need something that big. I'm a sedan man. To each...
I agree with you. Some people say it's stupid to get an S3 cause the golf r is about $10k cheaper and it's the "same car". I really like the way the S3 looks, the tech, interior quality, luxury, exhaust and the AWD system is a lot better than the one in the Golf R. So with all these other things, you can't expect it to cost the same price just because it has the same engine.
aahmm. the new Golf R has the better AWD system (that it shares with the RS3) but other than that, yeah.
This is all down to individual taste and needs. For me, the golf is a much better way to go - I spend quite a bit if time in Europe and the S3 Hatchback would be a no brainer if sold here. BTW the AWD system in the Golf is superior to the S3 and the same as the RS3. I have to have a hatchback - so, I did not consider the S3 - it's obviously a very good car, but as equipped it is not $10K better. I own a 2022 Golf R and love it!
The R has more tech than the S3...
@@asaadhossain6802 Are you talking about driving/performance tech or in cabin tech?
@@BN99239 Both at this point no? The S3 has less in cabin tech, and is using the older AWD system. The R shares it's AWD with the RS3 now, using the Magna system. No heated steering, no ventilated seats, no rear passenger climate, need to go up trim levels for a HUD. It's a bad value proposition for the S3- unless you truly hate the MK8 infotainment so much that you are willing to spend an extra 5-10k, to still get an inferior AWD system.
Agreed about the 19 inch wheels, especially in the northeast. Have had to replace 4 tires in less than 2 years because of potholes, which is why not offering a spare on this new generation is a big mistake.
The S3 is awesome! It's the perfect daily driver in my opinion. The turbo 4 is very punchy and healthy, yet efficient. I can get upwards of 34 MPG on the freeway. The dual clutch gearbox is sharp and the quattro AWD system makes it great for year round use. The interior is also well appointed. The materials used and fit and finish are great. I paid under MSRP for mine and for right around $50K, you're getting a lot of car! It's also very practical with usable interior room, yet it has a light curb weight and is dimensionally on the smaller side which makes parking and getting in and out of traffic a breeze. I think you sacrifice too much in terms of value and efficiency by going with the S4 or S5 for example.
I also didn't find the RS3 worth the extra at minimum $10K... Most of them are priced at $15-20K more. The 100HP difference between the two is a lot but a tune and downpipe on an S3 for maybe $1500 total will make more than an RS3 by a healthy amount. I don't think the parts availability and overall reliability will be as good for the 5 cylinder either. More expensive to maintain and insure as well.
I sound like a salesperson here, but the S3 really is that good. Lol.
What year my friend?
@@Paul-ii9vu ‘23
@@v8713 thank you! I like it. My friend was thinking about getting the s3
But tuning I believe voids the warranty so that $1,500 can into tens of thousands if you've unlucky.
The inline 5 is more reliable.
Nice video. I just bought a '23 S3 and paid the $1500 for a spare wheel and tire, which takes up most of the trunk. But as you say, it's scary not having one, and those tire patch kits are useless if the sidewall is punctured.
Aso, sir, the fact that the S3 is a great car doesn't mean the RS3 is necessarily better. I had a '20 RS3 which was incredibly fast, but not necessarily more fun. Each car has its own character, balance, poise, personality. It's nice to be able to use all of a car's power, and that's tough with the RS3. Thanks again.
I guess RS3 is more like a high-rev happy S2000, low rev it feels like shit, but once you rev up that VTech it will come to life
I use the RS3s power :-)
I'd get into too much trouble in an RS3. Plus the harder you drive it,, the sooner it'll need maintenance and other costs. My S3 keeps me tame and still fun as hell when I need it to be.
Hey, your reviews are amazing! Defintelly the best audi s3 review I've ever seen and I watched a bunch : )
Got one on order for 2024. Very excited
Long time viewer driving the new rs3 right now. The rs3 has decent turbo lag at times and was wondering if the s3 has less turbo lag if you don't mind and other reasons you think it drives better.
Drive the RS3 when it comes out?
Would you prefer this ‘22 s3 over the ‘22 m240x?
This or the new 2 Series Coupe? What do you think TheTopher? Thanks!
This intersection in 9:30 is getting worse with every reviev haha
Haha yes it is. I used to be able to take it at speed! No more unless in an SUV
@ReideenHAWK Salt lol
Would you rather this or the GR86/BRZ for a daily? I have the 23 S3 right now and love it but its so high tech and I feel like the driving experience suffers a little. The car wants to do so much for you. I had a Evo X and a 2018 S3 prior to this and they both were much more "fun" to drive and felt more raw in my opinion. My buddy has a 23 GR86 that he turbo'd and when I drove that I felt the same feeling I did with my two prior cars. Just curious since I know you daily a BRZ
I actually read about people who turned the pumped in exhaust-audio off, and reported that the sound is still as good, just more subdued. Wich speaks for there actually not being anything artificial about the sound, other than its volume. My next question is: HOW the hell did they make it sound like a 5 cylinder? Would be so nice to be able to modify all inline 4:s in that way!
Congrats on your son! Be patient with him!
Ive driven alot of cars M cars Rs cars but for some reason i had fun in a S3 more comfortable less punishing and not way slower then those cars . Pretty competitive speed 😁
Great review I have a 2023 S3 on order hopefully should come in by October-November, and from the looks of it in your review it looks like I made the right choice.
I ordered mine in March but since it's now being delivered in 10 days, they told me it's a 2023 so that's ok....I took the black optics package with stereo and charger....Congrats on your purchase! I've been back monthly to the dealership to drive it once or twice a month and I'm so happy I chose this over the STI, A4, Golf R and the M235i....
@@boodits yep mine got converted to a 2023 it's been built just waiting for a ship.
@@aycemanm8151has it been delivered? Are you happy with it? Any issues?
This S3 looks really freakin' good.
“Subtle, subdued; not shouty”… best unintentional rhyme with Audi of 2022.
I like your review. I am in UK and have the S3 saloon in Ibis white. I love it. I agree with you. mine had adaptive cruise too, but not many of other features and I am on 18" tyres but all weather. I had an unregulated S4 2015, so a lot slower, but really in a way I love this, but I do not need 200mph/ 320kph in Germany anymore. This is fast enough and I love mine. I would advise a ceramic coating though. Costs a bit, but really worthwhile... You may send comments if you want. I love this video
Shall I get an s3 or rs3 what you lot think
I despise 2016 grey with a passion, I'm sick of seeing it. Other than that it seems like a rad little car, especially in either of the blue paint options. Losing the trick diff from the Golf R might be worth it if it means you get blessed with a vastly superior user experience with delightful physical controls and a nicer interior.
Please do a POV Review of 2022 Audi Q3 😊
Man the weather getting warmer can’t wait to see Topher rip it on them on ramps
The Black Optics package at least in the 2024 version Audi blacks out everything. 😁
I love these videos and hope that you review the new RS3 when it arrives in the US.
This car is so near perfect that I'd stretch as much as I could for it.... just wish it was a hatch.
They should teach VW how to make interiors. And buttons.
I'm sure they know HOW to make interiors. They're basically the same company. VWs are purposefully not as luxurious as Audis. Don't want to risk cannibalizing the Audi brand by making its less expensive counterpart too similar.
@thetopher
If you had a choice between the Audi S3 and RS3 - which would you choose?
Currently, I am the market for a new car and have narrowed my options down to those two options. Unfortunately, none of the local dealerships ever have either of those models in stock and when they do that are immediately sold - so I am unable to test drive either.
I am seeking an executive luxury daily driver with power/kick and extremely smooth shifting. I have no intention of ever drifting but tend to have a lead foot on the highway lol so would like the ability to do high speeds easily.
The 5 cylinder engine on the RS3 sounds so tempting but I wonder if it's too much power.
Any thoughts?
Tbh I didn’t really like the RS3, which was a shame because I wanted to love it. It brutally fast, awesome when driving quickly but everywhere else it wasn’t a smooth driving experience, always boosting and then falling out of boost when shifting into the next gear.
The s3 was about perfect imo. Only thing I didn’t like was how loud impacts were on the 19” wheels over our rough roads/potholes here in MI. Otherwise, the 2.0t was much better tuned for daily driving. Lots of low down torque the RS3 didn’t have and they sound shockingly similar with whatever Audi is using as a soundaktor. I’d try test driving a previous generation (used) RS3 to see how you like it though, since the power delivery/feel won’t be that different except for the new rear diff.
@TheTopher
What about when compared to the Audi S4? I watched your previous video on the S4 and similar to the RS3 you seemed disappointed in its use as a daily driver. Would you too prefer the Audi S3 over the Audi S4 ?
I love this car. Just wish we had the hatch, but USA.
Great vid as always!
Dude this sounds like a 5 cylinder! This is crazy! Almost sounds like that 850r you have!
It really does!
@@TheTopher but thats because of the pumped in audio no ?
Watching your video make me cry, still miss my 2018 A3 Quattro😭.
I have the 8v and agree 100% with 18"s it came with 19s and im constantly swerving to avoid potholes, ride is way too harsh.. also rear dampers (mine is a saloon) should be replaced banging noises over humps
Such a shame how we aren't getting the new rs3s in Canada anymore
Just found this Chanel and have to Ask how come you Can drive all these cars? Is it your job?👍
I wish you didn't fiddle as much with paddles, it's hard to judge how the transmission behaves if you are constantly going into manual mode. Maybe do a segment in D, then S, then some M modes. It will give better impression of what to expect.
Does it auto upshift once on Manual mode?
Audi design is amazing
The highway road noise when you were driving around 18:00 sounds really high pitched and annoying..is that to do with the tires or wheels?
It's his winter tires, he addressed it in the night drive POV video
The EA888 is a great engine. I have a tuned 20 GLI Autobahn at 310hp/350tq..............The way it should've come. Those motors sing.
Did you changed to the is38 turbo? Or you're on the stock one?
@@evaristocorripio5434 the numbers he posted it should be an is20 (stock) tuned. It really is a great engine.
@@evaristocorripio5434 those are stock numbers. My friend did 340HP safely with stock turbo. He ran 12.1 in the Quartermile with stock turbo. If he wasn’t FWD he woulda been in 11s. It’s crazy for a car that was worth 26k in 2019 and with not much money you are faster than many more cars. The great thing about it is the engine “ ea888” has been tuned and tested safely for years. The company APR offers to make your car 300HP while still keeping your warranty that’s how safe these engines are
Two weeks ago I sold my '19 SS 1LE Camaro and picked up a 2020 S3 and i'm super pleased with my decision haha. I've done an intake, turbo inlet & res delete so far, I have a JB4 i'm going to fit soon (it's CPO and i'm going to hold off on mapping until i know for sure i'm going to keep it). Such a fun car and IMO one of the best daily drivers there is.
@@jaychesterman8197 nice dude! I think you can see from my profile pic that I agree with everything you said. Running stage1+ unitronic tune on mine (also a 2020) and its damn fast. I came from a bunch of GTIs before this so its crazy to have all this traction now.
I'm not looking to get a new car for another... Hm, 16-24 months? If Audi doesn't change much in the 2023 or 2024 model I think this review sold me on it.
$55k puts this squarely in the M240i's yard, and the BMW wins in almost every respect, unless you absolutely need 4 doors.
I will say that the Audi has better exterior...and those matrix lights are sharp.
Would love for you to drive a MB GLK 350. Just got a 2014 with 60k miles on it and I am in love!
Physical buttons work well in a car, touch buttons should only be for industrial equipment on a 45 degree angle so you can use gravity to press with confidence instead of touch hovering a button while in a car that is moving in all directions.
Nice, I got a '22 Audi A5 Coupe last month. One day into owning it, got a flat tire...
The fact it does not have the active rear diff that is in the R, and that you need to go to the top trim just to get a decent stereo and nice headlights is lamentable, with the middle trim being a bunch of non-enthusiast add-ons (lane departure, etc.) If the base model was available with the better diff and had the nice stereo as an option, this would be a winner. Heck swap the top and middle trims around so 50k gets you a well sorted model, and this would more desirable.
He said it has more steering feel though.
See that's what most people don't get with the R.
They don't realize that you only need to pay one price (at least for NA) to get everything while you have to fork over extra $$$ to get the same level of trim in its competitors. I'm not sure though if the Corolla GR pricing will be competitive though
finallyyyyy a new videooooo HAHAHA ive been replaying ur vids everyday
Looking forward to an RS3 review!
Love Your Vids keep going ☺️☺️☺️
This Audi S3 is a beauty ~~
The fake vents drive me nuts. This trend needs to die ASAP!
The argument against having a S3 hatch/ wagon is something I don’t get. Europe gets both, and they both sell well. Why wouldn’t it do well in the states?
I think he just sold me a car
I have the same engine in my Cupra Formentor VZ and it's very fun to drive
I bought a brand new 2015 Premium Plus S3 when it first came out. Had nonstop problems with it as soon as I drove it off the lot. Check engine and EPC lights a week after I bought it for cylinder deactivation, Haldex failed at 6k miles and again at 60k miles, transmission failed, engine blew. It was a nightmare but I loved it when it worked. Sold the S3 at 64k miles and vowed to never buy another 4 cylinder/haldex Audi. But this new one is making me want one again.
Wow. Terrible luck
You got a lemon. Simple as that. Plenty of people have S3s with no issues.
I had a 2018 and the only problem I had was both fobs managing to desync from the car...once. It was a 10/10 car.
@@jjchockey Mine was for sure a lemon. But apparently the Haldex failure was extremely common. Even 2015-2017 mk7 golf Rs had the same issue.
@@layne4376 well I had a 2015 A3 and had absolutely no issues what so ever. My friend also had a 2017 S3 and had absolutely no issues. Not even a tiny hiccup.
Love these and the Golf R. I wish VAG would put the 2.5 5cyl from the RS3/TTRS in the Golf R tho. That would make it more worth the price difference between it and the GTI i believe.
You can get it in the formentor…oh wait no. Usa does not get that
I’d take a vwdub arteon just because it’s practical and none are on the road anywhere. And because it’s packing pretty much the same power and in its last year sadly 😢
The only way to get the 18" wheels is to ditch the Black Optic package, which is fine by me. I much prefer the chrome exhaust tips anyway.
In Canada you upgrade the dynamic driving package to get adaptive dampers and 19" rims
Guess I'm getting aftermarket wheels when I buy this used ):
Is the speedometer KM/H or this car is sooo fast?
Miles per hour.
You said it with the 19" wheels not having enough tire. I hit one pithole and was changing to my spare within 5 minutes 😐
This or a TLX Type S? Different in many ways, but some similarities.
Thats a tough choice if ur cross shopping them. Personally I'd go for S3 myself
I’d never lease, period. But between an Audi and a BMW…. I don’t know 🤷 it’s a toss for me. Audi has more leg room and slightly bigger trunk. I love the hydraulic steering in the 3-Series but haven’t test driven a A4 or A3 yet.
I don’t think they’ve had hydraulic steering since the e9x 3 series. I had a 2011 A4 avant and the steering was too light and vague for my taste.
Leasing those is a good option you can always buy it back
@@turbos7780 good point
Fantastic review. Thank you.
Do a review on the BMW X3 please
This might be slightly better than a Mazda 3, even with the turbo. That would be a great comparison test. I know the Mazda is cheaper lol.
Non car comment here... I just find it strange that its April and you're still dealing w snow and very cold temps. While here in AZ weather is absolutely beautiful.
Oh I’m just a month behind with editing. Can’t wait to get these snow videos out of the way!
@@TheTopher ahh I see. Sorry!
Have a great weekend Topher 👍🏼😎
Funny how the US doesn't get the Sportback version, probably because they wouldn't sell very well, but in the EU we have both and over 90% easily of A3's are Sportbacks.
Audi has always been my favorite German car manufacturer. I’ve always loved Audi but I don’t think I could ever get one because of the reliability, same goes with all the other German cars.
😲
@@BreezeFX bruh lmao
@@JudgeFXX no such thing as a coincidence
@@BreezeFX i love this channel lmao
@@JudgeFXX same here lol
Me too! I want one!
The upshifts seem a tad slower than expected. I've seen other videos of the golf 8 which had more responsive shifts but it's weird cause they are supposed have the same exact gearbox. Different tuning maybe.
I'm surprised you like it so much! It must really drive great. I'm impressed.
What is the difference between Audi S3 and RS3 ?
Engine
I bought my first VWAG vehicle a year ago and I am never going back. The only thing I'd upgrade my Golf R to is an RS3 just for the sound.
I really like the hockey stick tach
Your review’s are excellent …
I wish you could review a TT RS
Wow so beautiful audi s3 👌
Very informative review from someone living in the same region. Pot holes are a big issue around the area. Do you think you could live with those 19 inch wheels or they are really a liability here? I ask this because I'm really interested in the new RS3, but it doesn't seem you can get 18 inch wheels on that.
You might be able to fit aftermarket 18s on the RS3, but you’re right, no factory option that I know of. Just get that wheel and tire insurance! And have a good spare on hand.
@@TheTopher My only worry is what if 18s don't fit.
@@jkliao6486 just get a thicker sidewall tire on the 19s. I assume the tires on this are a 40 series sidewall, so a 45 would help a lot.
@@ca8281 If it fits in the wheel arch, I will definitely try it. That is of course, until I can actually get the new RS3 XD
@@jkliao6486 The car might throw errors on 45 sidewalls.
There are 2 things that I dislike on this car . The F-shaped headlights are ugly , if they were like the lights from the A4 B9.5 the front would look soo much better . The second thing are the Air vents that are positioned soo high they just look like they had to put them somewhere in the last moment so they put them where they found space . Other than that I love this thing.
Yup, the pre 2022 S3 audi S3 8V's looked much better, the newer gen S3 looks too much like a hyundai, and the interior is better in the older ones.
its beautiful & perfect
There are quicker cars, better handling and nicer interiors; however, the balance of variable compromises the S3 executes is second to none IMO. A great daily jack of all trades 👏
I only hate the ridiculous volume touch pad.
It actually works quite well. I'd rather a knob as well but the touch pad doesn't drive you crazy and actually works like you want it to.
@@v8713 I just don't like them over sub standard roads, reaching for a knob is easier and inputs more accurate.
@@akent46 And they’re all dying! 😞
@@v8713 I know 😖 and I don't know anyone who wants this new tech, it's like the designers and engineers don't care about the market anymore, they just copy each other even if something is fundamentally worse, just like gloss black interiors!
@@akent46 So... use the buttons on the steering wheel when driving under "substandard (one word, btw) roads" and, for some reason, going "Golly jeepers, I'm hitting potholes *and* I have to switch sounds right this second!"
An sich ein schönes Auto aber mir gefällt die „neue“ Mittelkonsole nicht. Ich fand den schönen großen Hebel in der Mitte immer am ansprechendsten. Dieses kleine Ding da sieht irgendwie blöd aus. 😅
Why does so many people says "unfortunately we don't have the hatchback here" why ??? The sedan is much more aesthetic than the ugly hatchback
Everybody cries about what they can't have and then doesn't buy it when it's available because of some tiny flaw.
Reference, MaNuAlS, TuRbO aLl=WhElL dRivE mAnUaL wAgOn, etc.
Meanwhile, cars that were foolishly ordered as manuals, wagons, and hatchbacks for stock sit on lots for months because NOBODY BUYS THEM.
I like the sedan more too.... and that's saying something, since I actually like the a6 allroad more than the sedan
The Pirelli P-Zero factory tire lasts about 7000 miles until the inner sidewall disintegrates. Go with a Michelin PS4S on your next set. :)
Rather have a B9 A4 for the longitudinal and rear-bias layout. Plus a simple flash tune would get you more power than this has stock. Of course the RS3 would trump them all.
only downside is the A4 is running older interior design and the gauge cluster/safety tech like the adaptive cruise control isn't the newest Level 2 system.
My nigga these are cars not laptops
Just saying the new A4 is using Audis “Quattro Ultra” which is basically means it’s fwd till it detects slip. The only Audis now with a Torsen center diff and rear bias driving style w/ Sport diff are the S and RS models.
The A4 is longitudinal but not rear-bias; it's a front-biased system where the rears are decoupled most of the time. You need an S or RS model to get the rear-biased arrangement.
@@dogchainsaw3923 That sucks. My B8 A4 is torsen full-time 60/40 rear biased. Nothing gold can stay I suppose.
It's messed up that we now have to pay extra for what were basic levels of usability up until a year ago.
i heard about it but holy molly. US roads are in horrible conditions!
I even consider fitting my S3 with 20" for the summer set when it finally arrives. That is only possible because neither mine nor neighboring countries have such bad roads.
He's in Michigan
*Sees one video of one drive in one state.*
"Wow, an entire country has terrible roads. I wish my parents weren't cousins."
Now if only the RS3 could come to the states finally that'd be great
It's here...driving it
RS3 is the dream car @_@
29:27 hurt my soul, that pothole had to be massive
This or BMW?
What song is that? I like it lol