Audi S3 Sportback 2.0 TFSI S Tronic Review: More than a hot hatch...

What we like:

Increased practicality of the five-door configuration.

What we dislike:

Numb steering feel.

The S-tronic gear changes are quick and every change is accompanied by an assortment of pops and burbles from the exhaust as you rifle through the gears.

Like other Audis, the brakes on the S3 will anchor down should you need it to and provides enough feel to modulate it properly in a turn. And you will want to because as mentioned previously, left foot braking comes naturally here.

Despite the sports suspension, the car’s ride isn’t quite as busy as one would expect. There’s a distinct edge to the pliancy but it remains comfortable.

The new S3 sacrifices the short stubby hatchback styling of the three-door for greater accessibility and cargo capacity but loses little in its performance. If practicality is a priority for you, then the S3 makes a sensible choice.

But if performance is what you’re after, the lighter and more dynamic Golf R sister might be a better choice.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline