Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) specifications and photos
The Audi S3 Sportback (8Y), introduced in August 2020, is the high-performance variant of the fourth-generation A3. It delivers increased power, an aggressive exterior, and upgraded suspension components designed to improve driving dynamics.
Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Serving as the performance bridge between the standard A3 and the hardcore RS3, the 2020 S3 Sportback brings significant mechanical upgrades and a more focused driving experience. Central to the S3's identity is its powertrain, but Audi also addressed chassis behavior by implementing sport-tuned suspension that lowers the ride height by 15mm compared to the standard model. Standard progressive steering with a variable ratio enhances agility. Buyers looking for specific handling characteristics can opt for adaptive dampers, which provide selectable Auto, Dynamic, and Comfort modes. This generation aims to balance everyday usability with accessible performance.
- Power: 310 hp
- Engine displacement: 1984 cc
- Transmissions: 7 S-tronic
- Seating: 5 seats
Photos, trims and specifications for Audi S3 Sportback (8Y)
This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2020 generation.
Estimate fuel cost
Use trim-level fuel consumption data to estimate monthly and yearly fuel spending.
Fuel costs are estimates. Real consumption can change with driving style, traffic, tires, weather, load, and market-specific equipment.
Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
Visual distinctions for the S3 Sportback include enlarged bumper intakes with mesh inserts, a prominent rear diffuser, and quad exhaust tailpipes. In a nod to the original Audi Quattro, small slits are positioned just above the grille. Silver accents on the side mirrors, bumper elements, and side sills are standard, though an Edition One package offers these details in black. The car rides on 18-inch wheels as standard, with 19-inch alloys available as an option. Full LED headlights are included on base models, while Matrix LED units can be specified.
Interior
Inside, the S3 is fitted with front sport seats featuring aggressive bolstering and 'S' embossing, along with a flat-bottom steering wheel. The digital interface consists of a standard 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch central touchscreen. An upgraded 12.3-inch digital panel and a head-up display are optional. Rear-seat passengers get an armrest, air vents, and a 12-volt outlet, with three-zone climate control and rear USB ports available. Due to the all-wheel-drive hardware, trunk capacity is reduced to 325 liters, down from the standard A3's 380 liters.
Performance
Power comes from a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This output is sent through a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission to a Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which utilizes a hydraulic multi-plate clutch to manage power to the rear axle. This setup enables a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.8 seconds, with the top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h. Fuel consumption in a mixed cycle is rated at 7.4 liters per 100 km.
Practicality
While the S3 Sportback offers the convenience of a five-door hatchback body style, practical compromises have been made for performance. The 325-liter cargo area is slightly smaller than that of front-wheel-drive competitors due to the rear differential. However, it remains suitable for daily errands. The standard suspension is firmer, but the optional adaptive dampers can provide improved ride comfort for daily commuting and longer trips.
Safety and tech
The S3 Sportback can be equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems. Available features include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assist. A rearview camera and front/rear parking sensors help with maneuvering. Interior technology options include Nappa leather upholstery, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless device charging, and a 680-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 15 speakers.
Buyer notes
When comparing S3 models, buyers should consider the optional adaptive suspension if ride comfort on varied road surfaces is a priority. Upgrading to the Matrix LED headlights improves nighttime visibility significantly over the standard LEDs. Be aware that the Edition One package changes the exterior accent color from silver to black. Equipment levels, including the availability of the Bang & Olufsen audio system and advanced driver aids, may vary depending on the specific market and trim selected.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TFSI (310 hp) 7 S-tronic 4x4 | 1984 cc | 310 hp | 5 | 7 S-tronic |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) photo gallery
11 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Audi S3 Sportback (8Y)
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
2.0 TFSI (310 hp) 7 S-tronic 4x4 39 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 6.4 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 7.4 |
| Top speed, km/h | 250 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 4.8 |
| Emissions standard | Euro VI |
Engine
| Engine | 2.0 TFSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | CJXG/DJHA (EA888) |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1984 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Power, hp | 310 |
| RPM at max power | 5500-6500 |
| Torque, Nm | 400 |
| RPM at max torque | 2000-5400 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4351 |
| Width, mm | 1984 |
| Height, mm | 1438 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2630 |
| Front track, mm | 1545 |
| Rear track, mm | 1519 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1575 |
| Gross weight, kg | 2020 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 55 |
| Turning circle, m | 11.1 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1816 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 325 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 7 S-tronic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 2-speed automated manual |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission manufacturer | BorgWarner |
| Automatic transmission | + |
Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What engine is in the 2020 Audi S3 Sportback?
It uses a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque.
Is the Audi S3 Sportback all-wheel drive?
Yes, it comes standard with Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, featuring a hydraulic multi-plate clutch.
How fast is the 2020 Audi S3 Sportback?
The S3 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
How big is the trunk in the S3 Sportback?
The trunk capacity is 325 liters, which is 55 liters less than the standard front-wheel-drive A3, due to the all-wheel-drive components.
What suspension does the S3 have?
It has a sport-tuned suspension that is 15mm lower than the standard A3. Adaptive dampers with different driving modes are available as an option.