New Audi S3 Gains More Power and RS3 Tech for 2024

Audi has unveiled the updated 2024 S3, bringing a power increase, sharper gearshifts, and handling upgrades courtesy of the RS3’s torque splitter. Available in both Sportback and Saloon body styles, the facelifted S3 promises greater agility and driver engagement than ever before.

More Power, Faster Shifts

Still powered by the EA888 2.0-litre turbo four, the 2024 Audi S3 now produces 333PS (328bhp) and 420Nm – a 23bhp and 15lb ft gain over the outgoing model. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission has been revised to deliver 50% quicker shifts at full throttle, while launch control is now more aggressive, compressing the clutch pack more strongly to handle the increased torque.

As a result, performance has improved. The S3 accelerates from 0–62mph in 4.7 seconds, sending power to all four wheels via its Haldex-based quattro system. Peak torque is now spread between 2,100–5,500rpm, improving mid-range response. Top speed remains electronically limited to 155mph, though Audi claims enhanced throttle and turbocharger response in everyday driving.

Sharper Handling: RS3 Tech Brings Agility

The biggest upgrade for the 2024 Audi S3 is the addition of the RS3’s torque splitter. This system uses electronically controlled multi-plate clutches on each rear driveshaft, enabling fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels. In the new Dynamic Plus mode, the system directs more power to the outside rear wheel, increasing rotation and giving the S3 a more playful, oversteer-friendly balance.

A suite of suspension upgrades also enhances the facelifted S3’s dynamics. The wishbones feature stiffer bearings, while new pivot bearings allow for greater negative camber, improving steering response and front-end grip. The progressive EPAS system has also been fine-tuned for greater precision.

Braking performance has been improved, too. The front discs are now 357mm in diameter and 34mm thick – an increase of 4mm – and are ventilated and perforated for better heat dissipation. The front axle now features two-piston calipers, housed behind 18-inch alloy wheels as standard.

Subtle Styling Tweaks, Enhanced Interior

Audi has kept the Q-car appeal of the 2024 S3 intact, resisting the urge to dial up the aggression. Styling changes include a new grille with L-shaped chrome accents, revised LED Matrix headlights with customisable daytime running lights and a deeper front spoiler. At the rear, the L-shaped design elements continue on the bumper, which houses the quad exhaust outlets. Ride height has also been lowered by 15mm.

For those wanting a bolder look, Audi’s options list includes a sports exhaust system with a titanium silencer, plus wider 19-inch wheels (235-section). New metallic colour choices include District Green, Ascari Blue and Progressive Red, while Daytona Grey is now available in matte finish.

Inside, the facelifted S3 receives detail refinements rather than a full redesign. A new gear selector, revised air vents and expanded ambient lighting freshen up the cabin, while the three-spoke steering wheel and sports seats add to the performance focus. High-tech upgrades include a wireless smartphone charger, USB ports front and rear and a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the latest connectivity features.

Pricing & Availability

The 2024 Audi S3 is now on sale in the UK, with prices ranging from £47,520 to £52,995, depending on model and trim. The S3 Sportback Black Edition starts at £47,550, while the range-topping Vorsprung trim begins at £53,025. Buyers can also opt for the S Technology Pack Pro, which adds adaptive cruise assist, a head-up display, LED Matrix headlights and more.

Audi RS 4 Edition 25

Proving there’s still life in the old dog carrier yet, Audi Sport marks the end of the RS 4 with a 25th anniversary special backed up with a power hike and significant suspension upgrades.

The BMW M3 Touring might’ve recently stolen the RS 4 Avant’s thunder, but that doesn’t mean the Audi isn’t going down without a fight. Following on from the surprisingly hardcore RS 4 Competition with its trick coilover suspension is this, the RS 4 Edition 25.

Priced at £115,880, the 463 bhp Edition 25 marks the end of the line for yet another Audi icon, following the recent deaths of the R8 and TT. Taking inspiration from each of the four generations of RS 4, the Edition 25 gets a power boost of 19 bhp for the 2.9 litre biturbo V6. The torque output remains a match for the cooking RS 4 at 442 lb ft (to prolong the life of the eight speed torque converter automatic), although Audi Sport has revised the gear shift mapping, promising a more aggressive change in the sportiest driving modes.

The extra power and snappier shifts combine to reduce the 0-62 mph time by an impressive 0.4 seconds, with a 3.7s run. The top speed has also improved, with the RS 4 Edition 25 now capable of 186 mph.

The Edition 25 will also sport the adjustable coilovers of the RS 4 Competition, with the ride height lowered by 10 mm over the regular car. Those handy with the spanners can lower the car by another 10 mm. The Competition will also donate its 20 inch wheels which will be wrapped exclusively in Pirelli’s P Zero Corsa tyre for the UK market. Elsewhere, the Edition 25 will offer the semi slick Trofeo RS tyre as an optional extra, which should give a clue as to Audi’s intent that this final run out model is no mere cosmetic makeover.

Indeed, the chassis modifications continue under the skin. There’s stiffer front control arms and increased negative camber and the rear subframe is more firmly anchored. The Torsen Sport quattro rear differential has also been tweaked to deliver a faster and more precise distribution of torque across the back axle. Audi Sport has also removed some of the RS 4’s sound insulation in tandem with including the sports exhaust system and carbon ceramic brakes from the options list with the Edition 25’s asking price.

What isn’t included is the stunning Imola Yellow paint on the car in the press release images, which harks back to the original B5 RS 4 Avant. Ticking that box will set you back an additional £3,000. Hopefully other great Audi Sport colours such as Nogaro Blue will be available too.

Inside, the Edition 25 is distinguished by yellow stitching for the part leather, part alcantara seats, matte carbon trim highlights for the dash and door cards, plus Edition 25 badging throughout. The steering wheel will also be trimmed in alcantara.

With just 50 units coming to the UK, expect all RS 4 Edition 25’s to be accounted for quickly, despite the price premium. And if the Edition 25 seems a little too hardcore for you, Audi has also announced a new RS 5 Sportback Performance Edition, which benefits from the power upgrade and coilover suspension, but forgoes the rest.