Anyone running a S3 Sportback?
Discussion
I'm at my regular thinking of changing my car stage.
After looking at B8 S4's of around 4 years old, I think whilst a great car, many seem over priced for what is on offer, after all, a large engined car is not on everyones shopping list, and I recall buying my then 4 year old S4 (6 years ago) somewhat considerably cheaper at Around £18k.
Current B8 S4 seem to be retailing near the £22k range and many have the £480 Road tax as well. (the manual saloon is still £280 due to emissions on the saloon being lower).
Looking around at the market, S3 sportbacks seem to offer similar levels of passenger space in the front and back, pretty much on a par with my wifes MKV Gti, which seem bigger in the back than my current B6 S4.
A quick remap (as I did with my previous 1.8 S3) will see a 300bhp and similar levels of torque, so not a million miles away from the S4.
Sportbacks seem to be available for £17k-£18k ish and well specced. RNSe, bluetooth, heated leather, would all be on the list.
I've been looking for buying guides but they seem very few and far between. So, anyone out there run one?
Whats it like to live with, common issues etc?
MPG around 25mpg I guess?
Thanks for reading.
After looking at B8 S4's of around 4 years old, I think whilst a great car, many seem over priced for what is on offer, after all, a large engined car is not on everyones shopping list, and I recall buying my then 4 year old S4 (6 years ago) somewhat considerably cheaper at Around £18k.
Current B8 S4 seem to be retailing near the £22k range and many have the £480 Road tax as well. (the manual saloon is still £280 due to emissions on the saloon being lower).
Looking around at the market, S3 sportbacks seem to offer similar levels of passenger space in the front and back, pretty much on a par with my wifes MKV Gti, which seem bigger in the back than my current B6 S4.
A quick remap (as I did with my previous 1.8 S3) will see a 300bhp and similar levels of torque, so not a million miles away from the S4.
Sportbacks seem to be available for £17k-£18k ish and well specced. RNSe, bluetooth, heated leather, would all be on the list.
I've been looking for buying guides but they seem very few and far between. So, anyone out there run one?
Whats it like to live with, common issues etc?
MPG around 25mpg I guess?
Thanks for reading.
I have a 2010 S3 with DSG.
I love it, it's a fantastic car. Drives lovely, handles well, very fast, comfortable and spacious, a real lovely exhaust note when in overrun, and not an overdramatic design.
If you put your foot down it will beat a lot of cars off the mark - to the annoyance of those that spent a lot more money on their 'fast' car. if you lift your foot it will cruise along lovely.
I get about 280 miles from a tank. When I last looked I was averaging around 22mpg, but on a run I once managed to average 34, although I didn't buy it to keep an eye on the fuel economy :-)
space for rear passengers is not too bad, certainly not cramped, and the boot is of a decent size. folding the rear seats down I can lay my mountain bike in flat with no problems. the rear windows go all the way down which is nice for the rear passengers.
the Quattro system is great, and makes a real difference. gives lots of grip, even when you'd expect slipping. I've tried but just cannot get the wheels to spin when pulling away, even in the wet. I've only got wheelspin when I've done something stupid like enter a corner way too fast - but even then the electronics kick in and recover the driver error. When we had the snow this year I was the only car in my street that could get off the driveway and drive down the road, did that with no problems whatsoever. it'll also handle slippery surfaces at ease such as driving in a field with wet grass.
my only minor gripe is that the DSG can be a bit sluggish in DRIVE if you do something it wasn't expecting, and it loves changing up a gear early (i.e. by 20 mph you could already be in 3rd or 4th gear) - this goes away if you drive it in SPORT though and the engine and gearbox are very responsive.
I love it, it's a fantastic car. Drives lovely, handles well, very fast, comfortable and spacious, a real lovely exhaust note when in overrun, and not an overdramatic design.
If you put your foot down it will beat a lot of cars off the mark - to the annoyance of those that spent a lot more money on their 'fast' car. if you lift your foot it will cruise along lovely.
I get about 280 miles from a tank. When I last looked I was averaging around 22mpg, but on a run I once managed to average 34, although I didn't buy it to keep an eye on the fuel economy :-)
space for rear passengers is not too bad, certainly not cramped, and the boot is of a decent size. folding the rear seats down I can lay my mountain bike in flat with no problems. the rear windows go all the way down which is nice for the rear passengers.
the Quattro system is great, and makes a real difference. gives lots of grip, even when you'd expect slipping. I've tried but just cannot get the wheels to spin when pulling away, even in the wet. I've only got wheelspin when I've done something stupid like enter a corner way too fast - but even then the electronics kick in and recover the driver error. When we had the snow this year I was the only car in my street that could get off the driveway and drive down the road, did that with no problems whatsoever. it'll also handle slippery surfaces at ease such as driving in a field with wet grass.
my only minor gripe is that the DSG can be a bit sluggish in DRIVE if you do something it wasn't expecting, and it loves changing up a gear early (i.e. by 20 mph you could already be in 3rd or 4th gear) - this goes away if you drive it in SPORT though and the engine and gearbox are very responsive.
Many thanks for both replies.
Zorba, once you get a chance to give some first impressions, it would be appreciated.
Do you guys have kids? If so, how do you find the space in the back.
I'd be looking to keep the car 3 years, so my eldest could be 11 by the time I move it on, my other lad will be nearly 8, I'm thinking they'd be plenty of room for them in that period.
Zorba, once you get a chance to give some first impressions, it would be appreciated.
Do you guys have kids? If so, how do you find the space in the back.
I'd be looking to keep the car 3 years, so my eldest could be 11 by the time I move it on, my other lad will be nearly 8, I'm thinking they'd be plenty of room for them in that period.
Very similar car; Hugely impressed with my TTS as a day to day car. Quick without always harassing you to push on like my Porsches always did. I'd probably suggest going for the DSG because the manual doesn't add much to the experience and doesn't really suit the personality of the engine.
I average 23mpg in the hills of Wales, 30 on the motorway and 32 sat behind traffic at 55-60 on an A road. 300 hp 330 torque available with a stage 1 remap too.
I average 23mpg in the hills of Wales, 30 on the motorway and 32 sat behind traffic at 55-60 on an A road. 300 hp 330 torque available with a stage 1 remap too.
I'd discounted the DSG as the potential for issues *might* arise as it gets older, well that was my thinking.
I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
I've got a 2011 S3 Sportback which I got with just over 2000 miles on.
I echo everything that dododo says above.
My kids are 12 and 9- plenty of room for them and Mrs N, the boot is a little shallow but I've taken it the local tip once or twice with seats down with rubbish and got my daughter's new bike in the back too when I picked it up.
I love the 'under the radar' looks of the car, a bit of a wolf in sheeps clothing.
It's has outstanding grip and feels really planted in all conditions- in the snow last winter the Quattro system proved invaluable.
I get around 26-31 mpg always on Shell V Power.
I have the s tronic gearbox which I have grown to really like, I often switch between auto and 'flappy paddle' mode, the changes are slick and having tested a new S3 last week with a manual box I wouldn't go back to one now.
Mine has a Panoramic sunroof, Bose speakers and the heated front seats are fantastic for the colder months.
To be honest, the steering and handling are a little dull but I used to run an Elise so nothing will handle or feel like that.
My 2p worth, a big thumbs up from me.
I echo everything that dododo says above.
My kids are 12 and 9- plenty of room for them and Mrs N, the boot is a little shallow but I've taken it the local tip once or twice with seats down with rubbish and got my daughter's new bike in the back too when I picked it up.
I love the 'under the radar' looks of the car, a bit of a wolf in sheeps clothing.
It's has outstanding grip and feels really planted in all conditions- in the snow last winter the Quattro system proved invaluable.
I get around 26-31 mpg always on Shell V Power.
I have the s tronic gearbox which I have grown to really like, I often switch between auto and 'flappy paddle' mode, the changes are slick and having tested a new S3 last week with a manual box I wouldn't go back to one now.
Mine has a Panoramic sunroof, Bose speakers and the heated front seats are fantastic for the colder months.
To be honest, the steering and handling are a little dull but I used to run an Elise so nothing will handle or feel like that.
My 2p worth, a big thumbs up from me.
matts4 said:
I'd discounted the DSG as the potential for issues *might* arise as it gets older, well that was my thinking.
I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
Stock and Stage 1 is generally fine with DSG, stage 2 may see a very high mileage example need new clutch pack or seals. I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
If you opt for manual then budget for a new clutch with stage 1. A new factory clutch should be fine for 3yrs use. Stage 2 and get the clutch replaced for an upgraded version when mapped.
matts4 said:
I'd discounted the DSG as the potential for issues *might* arise as it gets older, well that was my thinking.
I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
I spoke with Ed at APS about the ED30, DSG or Manual for a remap. He said the manual will soon need a new clutch whereas the DSG is more than upto the job.I presume a re map works ok with the DSG, it's not too much extra strain?
I guess there is not the issue of clutch burning out with DSG though? (my old 8L S3 did the clutch 2 weeks after the re map)
Great advice guys, many thanks. I was convinced for the manual, but now I've read the 2 posts above, DSG will be the more sensible way to go I reckon.
Also good to know that 2 kids will have plenty of room too.
I'm already won over by the the fast, well specified car, even if the handling, like my S4, isn't completely cutting edge.
Also good to know that 2 kids will have plenty of room too.
I'm already won over by the the fast, well specified car, even if the handling, like my S4, isn't completely cutting edge.
For honesty sake I must admit to having needed a mechatronic seal replacement on my rocco R at50k miles, revo stage 2+ map. The cost was surprisingly reasonable.
The only other thing you'll need to think about on an S3 a cambelt change at 75k miles or 5 years. Make sure the change is the full kit (belt, tensioners, runners) + water pump not just belt only. It is I believe still on the dealers fixed price serving menu for cars over 36 months old.
The only other thing you'll need to think about on an S3 a cambelt change at 75k miles or 5 years. Make sure the change is the full kit (belt, tensioners, runners) + water pump not just belt only. It is I believe still on the dealers fixed price serving menu for cars over 36 months old.
matts4 said:
I'm at my regular thinking of changing my car stage.
After looking at B8 S4's of around 4 years old, I think whilst a great car, many seem over priced for what is on offer, after all, a large engined car is not on everyones shopping list, and I recall buying my then 4 year old S4 (6 years ago) somewhat considerably cheaper at Around £18k.
Current B8 S4 seem to be retailing near the £22k range and many have the £480 Road tax as well. (the manual saloon is still £280 due to emissions on the saloon being lower).
Looking around at the market, S3 sportbacks seem to offer similar levels of passenger space in the front and back, pretty much on a par with my wifes MKV Gti, which seem bigger in the back than my current B6 S4.
A quick remap (as I did with my previous 1.8 S3) will see a 300bhp and similar levels of torque, so not a million miles away from the S4.
Sportbacks seem to be available for £17k-£18k ish and well specced. RNSe, bluetooth, heated leather, would all be on the list.
I've been looking for buying guides but they seem very few and far between. So, anyone out there run one?
Whats it like to live with, common issues etc?
MPG around 25mpg I guess?
Thanks for reading.
I had one in 2008. Fantastic all-rounder. I have a B8 S4 now, but miss the S3. The size is perfect for a small family, if you don't need a great deal of luggage space. After looking at B8 S4's of around 4 years old, I think whilst a great car, many seem over priced for what is on offer, after all, a large engined car is not on everyones shopping list, and I recall buying my then 4 year old S4 (6 years ago) somewhat considerably cheaper at Around £18k.
Current B8 S4 seem to be retailing near the £22k range and many have the £480 Road tax as well. (the manual saloon is still £280 due to emissions on the saloon being lower).
Looking around at the market, S3 sportbacks seem to offer similar levels of passenger space in the front and back, pretty much on a par with my wifes MKV Gti, which seem bigger in the back than my current B6 S4.
A quick remap (as I did with my previous 1.8 S3) will see a 300bhp and similar levels of torque, so not a million miles away from the S4.
Sportbacks seem to be available for £17k-£18k ish and well specced. RNSe, bluetooth, heated leather, would all be on the list.
I've been looking for buying guides but they seem very few and far between. So, anyone out there run one?
Whats it like to live with, common issues etc?
MPG around 25mpg I guess?
Thanks for reading.
The beauty of the car is how well it shifts between roles. It is practical when you need it, and quite sporty when you want it. Engine likes to rev and was a joy to wind out on the Autobahns here, handling is very neutral at anything up to about 9/10ths, and you will not reach the limits on public roads. On the limit, the car tends toward understeer, but the rear can be rotated to a degree by lifting off the throttle. All around very sure-footed, rapid, and a bit playful.
As for maintenance/upkeep, I had only one issue in three years. Car began to overheat in traffic. Turns out the radiator fan unit died (a common issue), and it was replaced under warranty. Also, keep an eye on tire wear; with the Haldex 4, rears tend to wear slightly quicker than the fronts.
Edited by scherzkeks on Tuesday 15th October 09:35
All very positive comments so far. Thank you for taking the time to reply.
My biggest concern currently is oil consumption. Reading the internet for 2.0 fsi engine throws up some ( lots) of scare stories about 600-800 miles between 1 litre top ups.
That's a little worrying. And also difficult to see at pre sale inspection.
My biggest concern currently is oil consumption. Reading the internet for 2.0 fsi engine throws up some ( lots) of scare stories about 600-800 miles between 1 litre top ups.
That's a little worrying. And also difficult to see at pre sale inspection.
The older (belt driven) EA113 motor in the S3 isn't too bad for oil consumption.
The later (chain driven) EA888 has had some piston ring/breather problems.
Your right foot will likely have the biggest impact on this; buy a couple of 5l pots when they're on special and don't worry. They're cracking little cars.
The later (chain driven) EA888 has had some piston ring/breather problems.
Your right foot will likely have the biggest impact on this; buy a couple of 5l pots when they're on special and don't worry. They're cracking little cars.
Dr G said:
The older (belt driven) EA113 motor in the S3 isn't too bad for oil consumption.
The later (chain driven) EA888 has had some piston ring/breather problems.
Your right foot will likely have the biggest impact on this; buy a couple of 5l pots when they're on special and don't worry. They're cracking little cars.
Would a 2009 likely be an EA113 Dr G?The later (chain driven) EA888 has had some piston ring/breather problems.
Your right foot will likely have the biggest impact on this; buy a couple of 5l pots when they're on special and don't worry. They're cracking little cars.
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