Audi S3 Sportback Quattro 2.0 TFSI Review: High Five

Audi S3 Sportback Quattro 2.0 TFSI Review: High Five

Audi’s only hot hatch gains a couple of doors and a clutch, loses a foot pedal and costs cheaper – sounds like a tempting perspective to me.

OneShift Editorial Team
OneShift Editorial Team
25 Nov 2009
With the new S3 Sportback, Audi has addressed all the shortcomings of the three-door model. .
What we like:
pros
Extremely exploitable performance
pros
inspired handling
pros
lightning quick gearbox
pros
discreet looks
pros
build quality
pros
practical
pros
reasonable price
pros
all-wheel drive stability
What we dislike:
cons
Steering can do with more feel
cons
handling not as inspiring as a GTI
cons
I am still not paid enough to buy one

As you’d expect, the S3 Sportback has a long list of standard kit, including Xenon headlamps, cruise control, electrically adjustable seats, Bose sound system with iPod connectivity, climate control, 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors and so on.

Notable optional extras include a $5,678 panoramic roof and the TTS’ $2,385 Magnetic Ride system.

The S3 has always been ultra desirable but its high asking price of over $160,000, its three-door body and manual transmission are major deterrents for grown up hot hatch buyers. With the new S3 Sportback, Audi has addressed all the above mentioned shortcomings. The Sportback costs $158,000 while offering two extra doors and a twin clutch gearbox. Other than the numb steering, it is the near perfect hot hatch for grown men.

Credits: Story and photos by Raymond Lai

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