The 2022 Audi S3: A Sporty Compact Sedan
The 2022 Audi S3 represents a compelling evolution of Audi's celebrated compact performance sedan, blending sharp styling, potent performance, and sophisticated technology into a package that's as exhilarating to drive as it is practical for daily use. Building upon the foundation of the A3, the S3 injects a significant dose of sportiness, making it a standout choice in the premium compact segment.
Highlights
Powertrain Prowess: At the heart of the 2022 Audi S3 lies a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This powerhouse delivers a robust 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a smooth-shifting 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard, providing exceptional grip, stability, and confidence-inspiring handling in all driving conditions. This combination allows the S3 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk estimated 4.5 seconds.
Advanced Safety Features: The S3 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind. Key features include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and warns of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Lane Departure Warning: Helps prevent unintentional lane drifts by providing an audible or visual alert if the vehicle begins to stray from its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to match traffic flow.
- Park Assist: Assists with parallel and perpendicular parking maneuvers.
Trim Level Excellence: The 2022 Audi S3 is offered in two well-appointed trims:
- Premium: This entry-level trim still offers a significant level of luxury and technology, including a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster (Audi Virtual Cockpit), heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
- Premium Plus: Building upon the Premium trim, the Premium Plus adds a more sophisticated interior with Nappa leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting, a hands-free trunk, and an upgraded Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Driving Dynamics & Handling: The S3 is engineered for an engaging driving experience. Beyond the quattro AWD, it features a sport-tuned suspension that strikes an excellent balance between comfort and dynamic capability. An optional S Sport Suspension with adjustable damping is available, allowing drivers to tailor the ride and handling to their preferences. The progressive steering system provides quick and responsive turn-in, making it a joy to navigate winding roads.
Distinctive Styling: The S3 sports a more aggressive and purposeful design compared to its A3 counterpart. Subtle yet impactful styling cues like a unique S3 grille, distinctive front and rear bumpers, quad exhaust outlets, and S badging clearly communicate its performance credentials.
What to Expect
Owning a 2022 Audi S3 typically translates to a refined and enjoyable ownership experience. The interior quality and craftsmanship are exceptional, with premium materials and a modern, minimalist design that exudes sophistication. The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, offering seamless integration with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In terms of maintenance, like most German luxury performance vehicles, the S3 will generally require diligent adherence to its scheduled maintenance intervals. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and checks of essential components. While Audi vehicles are built with quality in mind, routine maintenance can be more costly than for mainstream brands.
Insurance costs for the 2022 Audi S3 are likely to be higher than for less powerful or less luxurious compact cars. This is due to the vehicle's performance capabilities, higher repair costs for specialized parts, and its premium positioning. Prospective buyers should obtain insurance quotes to factor this into their overall ownership budget.
Potential Considerations
While the 2022 Audi S3 is an impressive machine, there are a few points buyers might want to consider:
- Rear Seat Space: As a compact sport sedan, the rear seating area is best suited for two adults or for shorter journeys. While usable, it's not as spacious as larger sedans or SUVs.
- Ride Firmness: Even in its standard configuration, the S3's sport-tuned suspension can present a firmer ride than some buyers might prefer for everyday commuting, especially on rougher road surfaces. The optional S Sport Suspension, while offering enhanced handling, can further firm up the ride.
- Engine Note: While the engine is potent, some enthusiasts might find the exhaust note to be somewhat muted or lacking the visceral bark of some competitors. Audi's focus is often on refinement, which can sometimes translate to a less boisterous sound.
- Infotainment Interface: While the MMI Touch interface is generally well-regarded, the reliance on a touchscreen for many functions can be a point of contention for drivers who prefer physical buttons and knobs for frequently used controls.
Overall Summary
The 2022 Audi S3 stands as a highly capable and desirable compact performance sedan. It successfully blends thrilling acceleration and dynamic handling with Audi's signature luxury, advanced technology, and sophisticated styling. The potent turbocharged engine, standard quattro all-wheel drive, and comprehensive suite of safety features make it a compelling option for those seeking an engaging yet practical premium vehicle. While it may have minor limitations in rear-seat space and ride firmness for some, the S3 delivers a well-rounded and exhilarating ownership experience that is hard to fault in its segment.
