New Audi S3 review - Better than an M340i

The New Audi S3: A Thrilling Driving Experience

As I put the new Audi S3 through its paces, I couldn't help but notice how much more fun it was to drive compared to its predecessor. The adaptive dampers, which are only available on the top-of-the-line trim level, made a significant difference in terms of handling and responsiveness. The car felt slightly firmer than before, but not uncomfy, and seemed to be more responsive immediately when I turned into corners.

One of the standout features of this new S3 is its rear differential, which cleverly sends power to the outer rear wheel as you accelerate out of a bend. This makes the car feel more agile and playful, and allows it to rotate more easily through turns. The trade-off for this increased responsiveness is a slightly firmer ride, but I found that to be well worth it.

The engine sounds are also noteworthy, with a fruity 5-cylinder sound that's reminiscent of its larger, more powerful RS3 cousins. This engine feels more engaged and responsive than the previous generation S3, and seems to have more "bite" when accelerating out of corners. The brakes are also good, with a nice feeling of grip and traction.

One of the things I appreciate about this new S3 is how Audi has managed to balance its desire for a sporty driving experience with the need for practicality. With an estimated economy of 16MPG, this car is certainly no slouch when it comes to fuel efficiency. In fact, in my tests, I was able to get around 40MPG on a long cruise at an average speed of 47mph.

So why might you want to shortlist the new Audi S3? Well, for starters, there's the option for adaptive dampers, which are only available on the top trim level. This is a nice-to-have feature, but one that's not essential. Additionally, if you're looking for a similar driving experience without breaking the bank, there's an alternative option available through Carwow: a BMW M340i. With its larger body and 6-cylinder engine, this car offers a similar blend of performance and practicality at a slightly lower price point.

In fact, I ended up choosing the BMW M340i over the S3, precisely because it offered more value for money. While the Audi is certainly more fun to drive, the BMW's larger size and more powerful engine make it a better choice for long-term ownership. As with any car-buying decision, there are pros and cons to consider, but ultimately, I think you should take some time to weigh your options before making a final decision.

Overall, I'm thoroughly enjoying driving the new Audi S3, and I would recommend it to anyone in the market for a fun and engaging driving experience. While it may not be perfect, this car is certainly one of the best around, and I think you'll find it well worth considering.