The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket With Premium Panache

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Published July 22, 2024
The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket With Premium Panache

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache

The Audi S3 Sedan, a name synonymous with sporty luxury and performance, returns for the 2022 model year with a refined blend of sharp styling, impressive power, and a dose of everyday practicality. This compact sedan, nestled between the A3 and the S4, offers a compelling proposition for those seeking a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and elegance expected of an Audi.

Under the Hood: A Turbocharged Symphony

The heart of the S3 lies in its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a familiar powerplant across the Audi lineup. This potent unit produces a hearty 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, propelling the S3 from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds. The power delivery is linear and smooth, with a satisfying surge of acceleration that feels both exhilarating and controlled.

The engine is mated to a lightning-fast seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which shifts seamlessly and with impressive responsiveness. The S3 offers three driving modes: Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic. Comfort mode prioritizes smoothness and fuel efficiency, while Auto strikes a balance between performance and economy. Dynamic mode unleashes the S3’s full potential, sharpening throttle response, tightening steering, and providing a more aggressive soundtrack from the engine.

A Dance of Handling and Precision

The S3’s handling is a joy to experience. Its quattro all-wheel drive system provides exceptional grip and stability, allowing the car to carve corners with precision and confidence. The steering is direct and communicative, providing a sense of connection with the road. The suspension, while firm, manages to absorb bumps and imperfections with a degree of comfort that belies the car’s sporty nature.

The S3 is a true driver’s car, offering a balance of agility and composure that makes it a joy to drive on winding roads. It’s not as hardcore as a BMW M2 or a Mercedes-AMG A35, but it strikes a more refined and luxurious balance.

A Design that Speaks Volumes

The S3’s design is a blend of subtle aggression and understated elegance. The signature Audi grille, with its honeycomb mesh pattern, is flanked by sharp LED headlights that add a touch of menace to the front fascia. The sculpted hood and the flared wheel arches hint at the performance lurking beneath the surface.

From the side, the S3’s sloping roofline and the character lines that run along the body add a sense of dynamism. The rear features a sporty diffuser and dual exhaust tips, reinforcing the car’s performance intent. The S3 is available in a range of colors, including a vibrant Tango Red Metallic that truly makes the car stand out.

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache

Interior: Luxury and Functionality in Harmony

Step inside the S3, and you’re greeted with a luxurious and driver-focused cockpit. The seats are supportive and comfortable, offering excellent lateral support during spirited driving. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with a minimalist design that emphasizes functionality.

The S3 is equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s responsive and easy to use. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as Audi’s MMI navigation system. The virtual cockpit, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, is customizable and displays a wealth of information, including navigation maps, performance data, and audio settings.

A Symphony of Features

The S3 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache

The S3’s cabin is well-appointed with premium materials throughout. The seats are upholstered in leatherette, while the dashboard and door panels feature soft-touch materials. The S3 also offers a range of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their car with different trim levels, color schemes, and interior accents.

Practicality: A Surprising Element

While the S3 is undeniably a performance-oriented car, it also offers a surprising amount of practicality. The trunk provides 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space, enough for luggage for a weekend trip or for groceries for a large family. The rear seats fold down, expanding the cargo capacity further.

The S3 also offers a comfortable ride for passengers in the rear seats. While legroom is adequate, the sloping roofline can make it feel a bit claustrophobic for taller passengers.

Fuel Economy: A Balanced Approach

The S3’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is surprisingly fuel-efficient for a car with its performance capabilities. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. These numbers are competitive with other compact luxury sedans, demonstrating the S3’s ability to balance performance with efficiency.

The Verdict: A Winning Formula

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan is a compelling package that offers a winning combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. It’s a car that’s fun to drive, comfortable to ride in, and well-equipped with modern technology. While the S3 might not be the absolute top dog in the hot hatch segment, it offers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat.

Pros:

Cons:

  • Rear headroom can be tight for taller passengers
  • Some competitors offer more aggressive performance
  • Starting price is on the higher end of the segment

Conclusion:

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a compact luxury sedan that delivers both performance and practicality. Its sharp styling, impressive power, and refined interior make it a standout option in a competitive segment. While it may not be the most hardcore performance machine, the S3 offers a well-rounded and satisfying driving experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Detailed Breakdown:

Performance:

  • Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Torque: 295 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
  • Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive
  • 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds

Fuel Economy:

  • EPA-estimated fuel economy: 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, 28 mpg combined

Interior and Features:

  • 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (virtual cockpit)
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Leatherette upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Panoramic sunroof (optional)
  • Adaptive cruise control (optional)
  • Head-up display (optional)
  • Surround-view camera system (optional)

Safety:

  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Adaptive cruise control (optional)

Pricing:

  • Starting MSRP: $42,945

Competitors:

  • BMW M240i
  • Mercedes-AMG A35
  • Volkswagen Golf R
  • Honda Civic Type R

Overall:

The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan is a well-rounded and compelling option for buyers seeking a compact luxury sedan that delivers both performance and practicality. Its sharp styling, impressive power, and refined interior make it a standout option in a competitive segment.

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Thus, we hope this article has provided valuable insights into The 2022 Audi S3 Sedan: A Pocket Rocket with Premium Panache. We appreciate your attention to our article. See you in our next article!

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