The Audi S3 Sportback (8V, facelift) with the 2.0 TFSI 310 horsepower engine and S tronic dual-clutch transmission represents a significant iteration of Audi’s compact performance hatchback. Produced from 2016 to 2018, this variant occupied the top performance tier of the 8V S3 Sportback lineup, offering a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance. It built upon the foundation of the A3 platform (PQ35, later transitioning to the MQB for some components) and aimed to compete with rivals like the BMW M235i/M240i and Mercedes-AMG A35. This facelift brought styling updates, revised technology, and refinements to the already potent 2.0-liter engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S3 |
| Generation | S3 Sportback (8V, facelift) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (310 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2-8.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5-5.6 l/100 km (42.8 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5-6.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149-152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000-5400 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / DJHA |
| 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 | 1465 kg (3229.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1180 l (41.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4322 mm (170.16 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1404 mm (55.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Front overhang | 870 mm (34.25 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 821 mm (32.32 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Audi S3 Sportback 2.0 TFSI (310 Hp) quattro S tronic represents the culmination of the 8V generation’s development. The facelift brought revised front and rear styling, updated infotainment systems, and importantly, a power increase for the 2.0 TFSI engine. This model sat at the pinnacle of the S3 Sportback range, offering a more potent alternative to the standard A3 Sportback and the diesel-powered S3 variants. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, with limited availability in the United States where Audi focused on the S3 sedan.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S3 Sportback is the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the DJHA engine code. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a single-scroll turbocharger with an integrated intercooler, boosting output to 310 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 5400 rpm. The engine’s cylinder head incorporates a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard, providing rapid and seamless gear changes. This transmission features a wet clutch design for improved heat dissipation and durability. The quattro all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The 310 hp and 400 Nm of torque, combined with the quick-shifting S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, deliver impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The S tronic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for both acceleration and fuel efficiency. In everyday driving, the S3 Sportback feels responsive and refined. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip in various conditions. Compared to the earlier 8V S3 models, the facelifted version offers a slightly more aggressive throttle response and improved shift programming. While not as raw or visceral as some rear-wheel-drive performance cars, the S3 Sportback provides a balanced and engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S3 Sportback (8V, facelift) came well-equipped as standard. Key features included sport seats upholstered in a combination of Alcantara and leather, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, stainless steel pedal caps, and S-specific exterior styling cues. The infotainment system featured a 7-inch color display with Audi’s MMI interface. Optional extras included a larger 8-inch display, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive dampers, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior trim options included brushed aluminum or carbon fiber accents. Exterior color choices were extensive, with both solid and metallic paint options available.
Chassis & Braking
The S3 Sportback features a sport-tuned suspension with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The suspension is lowered compared to the standard A3 Sportback, providing a more planted and responsive feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is calibrated for performance driving, allowing for a degree of wheel slip before intervening. The steering is a speed-sensitive electromechanical system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016-2018 Audi S3 Sportback was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its potent performance, refined handling, and practical hatchback body style. Compared to the standard A3 Sportback, the S3 offered a significant performance upgrade. Against rivals like the BMW M235i/M240i and Mercedes-AMG A35, the S3 Sportback offered a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and value. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance car, averaging around 36 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and the occasional sensor failure.
Legacy
The Audi S3 Sportback (8V, facelift) 2.0 TFSI (310 Hp) quattro S tronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The EA888 engine is known for its robustness and tunability, and the S tronic transmission is generally reliable when properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and transmission fluid replacements, is crucial for long-term reliability. The car’s blend of performance, practicality, and relatively affordable running costs makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance hatchback. It represents a sweet spot in the 8V S3 lineup, offering a significant performance boost over earlier models without the higher price tag of later iterations.
