When Audi decided to do a saloon for its compact hatchback A3, it also intended to install the latest performance model in it.
So, the S3 appeared, to fight the other premium saloons on the market.

In 2013, the Audi S3 Sedan was launched and the carmaker insisted that it had to have all the quirks and features of a sports car.

When compared with the regular A3 Sedan, the silver mirror cases, the 18” light-alloy wheels and the quad-oval exhaust in the rear would tell the difference. As an option, 19” alloy-wheels were offered. Also, the S3 featured optional full LED headlights.

Inside the cabin, there is a mixed feeling of luxury and sport. The leather upholstery on the bolstered front seats had a good look. The all-black interior had received some minor touches of brushed aluminum on the air-vents and on the gear-lever. The dashboard was almost identical to the one found in any A3, but this one had a turbo gauge inside the tachometer dial. The infotainment system was cleverly hidden inside the dashboard popped-up at the touch of a button. It was offered as standard with the MMI radio.

For the transmission, Audi made some different approaches according to the market the car was sold. For instance, in Europe the standard version had a 6-speed manual and a DSG S-Tronic 6-speed automatic available as an option. In the U.S., the 2013 S3 was available only with the S-Tronic, dual-clutch gearbox.