Recently, I was fortunate to spend some time with Audi’s newest compact performance sedan the – 2022 Audi S3. I am going to get straight to the point on the best features and a few of the ones that left me wanting more. So here are the PROs and CONs of the 2022 Audi S3…..
PRO: Performance
There are certainly better performing Audi’s even in the model line, the RS3 comes to mind, but the 2022 Audi S3 is packed with its own high level of performance.
The turbocharged 4-cylinder engine kicks out 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque propelling the S3 to 0-to-60 in 4.5 seconds.
PRO: Amazing Handling
Very seldom do you get a high-performing vehicle that can also be such a positive experience to control. The Audi S3 is one of those vehicles. Driving it in a spirited manner the vehicle felt glued to the road.
PRO: Audi Virtual Cockpit
The Audi Virtual Cockpit is one of the best digital gauge clusters in the business and the S3 has that box checked. Displaying information crisp, clear, and if you want in a sporty/performance view.
PRO: Plenty of Room in a Compact Sedan
The S3, along with the A3 and RS3, are in this unique spot being a compact performance sedan. Compact usually scares away taller folks and I can attest that those 6 foot and above will have no problem inside the S3.
CON: Interior is Quite Bare
The 2022 Audi S3 has that beautiful crip clear Audi Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster and a large navigation screen to go with it, but besides those two items, the interior is quite bare.
Very little distinguishes it from a A3 with the exception of an S on the steering wheel and seats.
CON: Laggy Media Interface
When testing the S3, I spent a significant portion of time queuing up tunes on the MMI infotainment system. Overall the system is simple with 5 main pages, but I found it to be quite laggy waiting for the touch screen to register my touches into what I was telling it to do.
Additionally, the lone toggle to control the system on the center console is an awkward multi-use iPod click-wheel-like button.
I bought the first one at the dealership in northern CA October 9th, 2021. I love this car. It is fast, accelerates like cars much more expensive, handles beautifully, and puts power down better than anything I have ever owned. I love this car (I think I already said that, but it needs to be said again).