The Audi S3 Sedan (8V) 2.0 TFSI quattro, produced from 2013 to 2016, represents a compelling blend of performance and practicality within the compact executive car segment. Positioned as the high-performance variant of the A3 Sedan, the S3 aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience while maintaining the everyday usability expected of an Audi. This particular iteration, equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and paired with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, quickly became a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a spirited daily driver. It was a key model in Audi’s strategy to broaden the appeal of the S3 nameplate beyond the traditional hatchback body style, particularly in markets where sedans were preferred.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S3 |
| Generation | S3 Sedan (8V) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (300 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1-9.2 l/100 km (25.8 – 25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7-7.1 l/100 km (33.6 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5500-6200 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1800-5500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXC |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 845 l (29.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4469 mm (175.94 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Front overhang | 874 mm (34.41 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 964 mm (37.95 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S3 Sedan (8V) lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CJXC variant. This engine is a direct-injection, turbocharged powerplant featuring a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. The direct injection system, coupled with a sophisticated turbocharger and intercooler setup, allows for precise fuel delivery and efficient combustion, contributing to both power output and fuel economy. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The 300 horsepower and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque are delivered across a broad rev range, providing strong acceleration in all gears. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The S3 Sedan (8V) with the 2.0 TFSI and manual transmission delivers a genuinely engaging driving experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5 seconds, making it a quick car by any standard. The manual gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, offering a satisfying and precise shift action. Compared to the base A3 Sedan, the S3 benefits from a more responsive throttle, a sportier suspension tune, and more powerful brakes. While not as raw or visceral as some rear-wheel-drive performance cars, the S3 offers a balanced and accessible performance profile that appeals to a wide range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S3 Sedan (8V) came well-equipped as standard, reflecting its position as the performance flagship of the A3 range. Standard features typically included sport seats upholstered in a combination of cloth and leather, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Exterior styling cues included a unique front grille, sportier bumpers, quad exhaust outlets, and available 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The S3 Sedan (8V) features a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension is typically firmer than that of the standard A3 Sedan, contributing to a more controlled and sporty driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with the quattro all-wheel-drive system to enhance stability and prevent oversteer or understeer.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S3 Sedan (8V) was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and practicality. It was often compared to rivals such as the BMW 2 Series and the Mercedes-Benz CLA. The S3 typically offered a more refined and comfortable driving experience than some of its competitors, while still delivering impressive performance. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance car, averaging around 33 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and the turbocharger.
Legacy
The Audi S3 Sedan (8V) 2.0 TFSI quattro has established itself as a desirable used car, appreciated for its blend of performance, practicality, and Audi build quality. The EA888 engine, while known to require regular maintenance, is generally considered robust and reliable when properly cared for. The quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a key selling point, particularly in regions with inclement weather. Today, the 8V S3 represents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a sporty and sophisticated sedan without breaking the bank.
