The Audi S3 (8V, facelift) 2.0 TFSI quattro, produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a significant evolution of the popular S3 hatchback. This variant, positioned as a high-performance offering within the 8V S3 range, built upon the foundation of the A3 platform (PQ35, later transitioning to MQB for some components). The facelift brought styling revisions, updated technology, and refinements to the already potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. It served as a direct competitor to models like the BMW M235i/M240i and the Mercedes-AMG A 35, targeting enthusiasts seeking a blend of everyday practicality and exhilarating performance in a compact package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S3 |
| Generation | S3 (8V, facelift) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (310 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1-9.2 l/100 km (25.8 – 25.6 US mpg, 31 – 30.7 UK mpg, 11 – 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7-7.1 l/100 km (33.6 – 33.1 US mpg, 40.4 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.3 – 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-163 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 220.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5800-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 156.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1850-5700 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1850-5700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXG |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l (11.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1060 l (37.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4252 mm (167.4 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1401 mm (55.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2596 mm (102.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 870 mm (34.25 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 786 mm (30.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Audi S3 facelift continued the success of the 8V generation, offering a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and premium features. Building on the foundation laid by the pre-facelift model, the updated S3 received subtle but effective styling changes, including revised headlights and grille, along with interior enhancements. The core of the appeal remained the 2.0-liter TFSI engine, now producing 310 horsepower, coupled with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. This configuration positioned the S3 as a direct competitor to other performance hatchbacks, offering a more refined and technologically advanced experience than some rivals.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S3 facelift lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CJXG engine code. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing both performance and efficiency. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing knock, while the multi-port injection system supplements at lower loads. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s high output. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, with an intercooler, provides significant boost, delivering 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1850 and 5700 rpm. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and engaging driver control. The quattro all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing excellent traction and stability in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 310 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, deliver impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.9 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed is 155 mph. The manual transmission provides a direct and engaging driving experience, allowing for precise control over the engine’s power. Compared to lower-powered S3 variants, the 2.0 TFSI 310 hp model offers a significantly more responsive and exhilarating driving experience. While the lower-powered versions prioritize fuel economy and everyday usability, this variant is geared towards enthusiasts who demand higher performance. The quattro system ensures excellent grip and stability, particularly in challenging conditions, making it a confident and capable performer year-round.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S3 facelift came well-equipped as standard. Key features included sport seats upholstered in a combination of cloth and leather, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display. Optional extras included a larger 8-inch MMI display with navigation, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive dampers, and a panoramic sunroof. The S3 also offered a range of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle with different exterior colors, wheel designs, and interior trim choices.
Chassis & Braking
The S3 facelift features a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension is tuned to be firmer than that of the standard A3, providing more responsive handling and reduced body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S3 facelift was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and refined interior. It was often lauded as one of the best all-around performance hatchbacks on the market. Compared to other trims in the S3 lineup, the 2.0 TFSI 310 hp model offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was respectable for a performance car, averaging around 33.6 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Audi S3 (8V, facelift) 2.0 TFSI quattro has established itself as a desirable used car, appreciated for its blend of performance, practicality, and build quality. The EA888 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally considered robust and reliable. The quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a key selling point, particularly in regions with inclement weather. Today, these S3s continue to offer a compelling driving experience and represent a strong value proposition for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance hatchback.
