VS

Audi S3 vs Volkswagen Golf R – Differences & Prices Compared

Compare performance, trunk space, efficiency, and price at a glance.
Find out now which car suits you better – the Audi S3 or the Volkswagen Golf R?

The Audi S3 (Sedan) comes with a Gasoline engine and Automatic transmission. In comparison, the Volkswagen Golf R (4MOTION Hatchback) features a Gasoline engine and Manual or Automatic transmission.

If you're looking for more power, decide whether the 306 HP of the Audi S3 or the 315 HP of the Volkswagen Golf R better fits your needs.

The Audi S3 offers a fuel efficiency of 23 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Volkswagen Golf R.

Price-wise, the Audi S3 starts at 47400 $, while the Volkswagen Golf R is available from 45700 $. Compare all details and see which model fits your lifestyle best!

Go to comparison table

In a thrilling face-off between the Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R, these two automotive titans showcase the pinnacle of compact performance. The Audi S3 offers a refined and upscale experience with its premium interior and precision engineering, while the Golf R impresses with its dynamic handling and impressive power output, all packaged in a slightly more understated design. Both models share a sophisticated platform, yet cater to different driving enthusiasts; the S3 for those seeking luxury with their speed, and the Golf R for those prioritizing a more raw yet exhilarating driving experience.

Audi S3

The Audi S3 is a compact luxury sports sedan that combines understated elegance with dynamic performance. Its exterior showcases a bold, sporty design with sharp lines and a confident stance, making it stand out on the road. Inside, the S3 offers a premium cabin filled with high-quality materials and advanced technology, creating a refined driving experience.

details

Volkswagen Golf R

The Volkswagen Golf R is a high-performance variant of the beloved Golf lineup, known for its dynamic driving experience and sophisticated styling. This car effortlessly balances everyday practicality with thrilling athleticism, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Its all-wheel-drive capability and refined interior further cement its status as a top contender in the hot hatch segment.

details

Audi S3 vs. Volkswagen Golf R: The Battle of Compact Powerhouses

As the automotive world continues to dazzle with innovations and performance enhancements, the Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R stand out in the compact car category. Both vehicles have garnered a solid following, and for good reason. Each offers a unique blend of performance, style, and technological innovation. Let's dive deeper into what sets these two compelling machines apart.

Performance and Power

The Audi S3 promises an exhilarating drive with its 306 HP engine. Its 2.0-liter gasoline engine boasting a torque of 295 lb-ft is paired with an efficient automatic transmission, delivering power seamlessly across all four wheels thanks to the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The S3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph with enthusiasm, making it a captivating choice for those craving a spirited ride without sacrificing practicality.

On the other hand, the Volkswagen Golf R takes performance a notch higher with its 315 HP engine. Available with both manual and automatic transmissions, it also features a 2.0-liter engine, offering torque values between 280 and 295 lb-ft. Just like the S3, the Golf R benefits from an all-wheel-drive platform, branded as 4MOTION by Volkswagen, ensuring optimal traction and handling in various driving conditions.

Efficiency and Economy

Despite their performance-oriented nature, both vehicles manage to offer commendable fuel efficiency figures. The Audi S3 impresses with 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, aided by its lightweight construction at 3,527 lbs. The Golf R, slightly heavier with a curb weight ranging from 3,397 to 3,474 lbs depending on the model, varies in efficiency. Its manual version offers 20 city mpg and 28 highway mpg, while the automatic version is slightly more frugal at 22 city mpg and 31 highway mpg.

Interior and Dimensions

The S3 embraces a sleek sedan body style, providing ample room for five occupants. The trunk offers 8.3 cubic feet of luggage space, adequate for everyday needs. Measuring 177.3 inches in length, 71.5 inches in width, and standing 55 inches tall, the S3 maintains a compact profile, contributing to its agility on the road.

The Golf R's hatchback design enhances practicality, appealing to drivers seeking versatility. Although smaller in length at 168.9 inches, it makes efficient use of its interior space, comfortably seating five and adapting well to a variety of cargo needs. Its slightly more elevated height of 57 inches compared to the S3 adds a bit more headroom, catering well to taller passengers.

Conclusion: A Choice of Preference

Choosing between the Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R ultimately boils down to personal preferences and priorities. The S3 caters to those who appreciate refined luxury and a more traditional sedan experience, while the Golf R is perfect for enthusiasts who want a sportier, manual experience without compromising on practicality. Both vehicles embody the pinnacle of compact performance, making either choice a thrilling companion on the road.

Audi S3
Volkswagen Golf R
Golf R

Costs and Consumption

Price
47400 $
Price
45700 - 46500 $
FuelEconomy City
23 mpg
FuelEconomy City
20 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 31 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14.50 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.50 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
4MOTION Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3527 lbs
Curb weight
3397 - 3474 lbs
Trunk Volume
8.30 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
177.30 in.
Length
168.90 in.
Width
71.50 in.
Width
70.40 in.
Height
55 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
306 HP
Power HP
315 HP
Torque
295 lb-ft
Torque
280 - 295 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
Brand
Audi
Brand
Volkswagen

Audi S3

A Deep Dive into the Audi S3: Unbridled Performance Meets Luxurious Comfort

The Audi S3 stands as a testament to the German automaker’s relentless pursuit of perfection, offering a meticulously engineered compact sports sedan that does not compromise on luxury or technological advancements. For those who crave the harmonized blend of speed, comfort, and cutting-edge features, the Audi S3 is a formidable contender in the premium compact car segment.

Unleashing Power: Engine and Performance

Under the hood of the S3 lies a formidable 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged engine, engineered to deliver a spirited 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power-packed engine ensures a thrilling driving experience, launching the car from 0 to 60 mph in just about 4.5 seconds. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission offers seamless gear changes, providing both a sporty and smooth drive whether you’re navigating busy city streets or conquering open highways.

Dynamic Handling: Precise and Agile

Equipped with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, the S3 offers unparalleled traction and stability across a variety of driving conditions. Paired with a sport suspension, the car provides an agile and responsive driving experience. The progressive steering ensures tight cornering capabilities, making every twist and turn a joy to navigate. Drivers can also select from various driving modes that tailor the throttle response, gear shift points, and steering feel to their personal preferences.

Technology and Interior: A Cabin of Opulence

Inside the Audi S3, you'll find a cabin that meticulously balances sportiness with luxury. The Virtual Cockpit, a hallmark of Audi’s recent models, stands out with its customizable digital display, providing critical driving information at a glance. The MMI touch display, which integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offers intuitive control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings, elevating the user experience to new heights.

The S3 also doesn’t skimp on premium materials. From leather sport seats to brushed aluminum inlays, every element of the interior exudes sophistication. Comfort is further enhanced with features such as ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a banging audio system that promises a concert-like experience on the go.

Innovative Safety Features: Confidence in Every Drive

Safety remains a paramount focus for the Audi S3. Advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and park assist provide an extra layer of security, ensuring drivers can tackle urban jungles and winding roads alike with peace of mind. The car’s robust build and numerous airbags further enhance occupant safety, underscoring Audi’s commitment to protecting its drivers and passengers.

Aesthetic Excellence: A Design That Turns Heads

The Audi S3 doesn’t just deliver on performance – it’s a visual masterpiece. Its aggressive front grille design, sleek LED headlights, and athletic contours distinguish it from its peers. The aerodynamic body kit, which includes distinctive side skirts and a rear spoiler, complements the car’s performance orientation, making it as striking to look at as it is exhilarating to drive.

Conclusion: A Compact Powerhouse

In the competitive landscape of sporty sedans, the Audi S3 emerges as a frontrunner, offering a compelling mix of potent performance, luxurious comfort, and innovative technology. Whether you're an enthusiast seeking a weekend warrior or a professional desiring a sophisticated daily driver, the Audi S3 is an impeccable choice, promising an experience that’s both exhilarating and refined.

Volkswagen Golf R

The Thrill of Driving: Discover the 2024 Volkswagen Golf R

The Volkswagen Golf R has always been celebrated for its dynamic performance and versatile nature, and the 2024 model takes these attributes to new heights. With its impressive power and refined handling, the Golf R continues to captivate driving enthusiasts everywhere. This model is available in two enticing versions, featuring either a manual or automatic transmission, both delivering a phenomenal 315 horsepower through an efficient all-wheel drive system.

Precision Performance: Engine and Transmission

At the heart of the 2024 Golf R is a robust 2.0-liter gasoline engine, tuned to produce a spirited 315 horsepower. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DSG automatic, providing drivers with the choice of precise gear control or a more relaxed driving experience. The engine's powerful delivery is underscored by torque figures of 280 lb-ft for the manual and an even more impressive 295 lb-ft for the automatic version, ensuring exhilarating acceleration and responsiveness.

Efficiency Meets Enthusiasm: Fuel Economy

Despite its performance capabilities, the Golf R is also mindful of fuel efficiency. The manual version strikes a balance with an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the automatic version elevates efficiency slightly, achieving 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. These figures highlight Volkswagen's commitment to blending performance with practicality.

Designed for Versatility: Dimensions and Comfort

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf R is styled as a 4MOTION hatchback, offering a compact yet spacious design that accommodates up to five passengers comfortably. The vehicle measures 168.9 inches in length, 70.4 inches in width, and 57 inches in height, making it well-suited for a variety of driving conditions, from urban commutes to weekend adventures. With a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 gallons, it ensures you spend more time enjoying the drive and less time at the pump.

Built for the Driver: Features and Innovation

Volkswagen has equipped the Golf R with advanced technology and features to enhance the driving experience. From its intuitive infotainment system to the sophisticated safety features, the Golf R is designed to keep drivers connected and secure. The use of high-quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics further defines its interior, making every journey as enjoyable as possible.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excitement

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf R continues its legacy as a beacon of performance in the hatchback segment. With its blend of power, efficiency, and technological advancements, this model remains a top choice for those who demand both excitement and practicality in their driving experience. Whether you opt for the manual or DSG automatic, the Golf R promises a ride that is nothing short of exhilarating.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on USA list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.