This is your first look at (prototype) 2025 Audi S3

More often than not, mid-cycle updates, also known as facelifts, are just aesthetic improvements of current model-year units. The vehicles get a nip-and-tuck here, a larger infotainment system there, and maybe new options and accessories to refresh the nameplate and make it more exciting for buyers.

Well, that is not the case for this Audi. The German automaker revealed the prototype S3 – still wrapped in camouflage – but was generous enough to mention its new features, including a new component that will reduce a nagging problem, understeer.

Some notable exterior changes include a fresh grille, a reshaped (front and rear) bumper, the brand’s latest lighting system, and a more aggressive-looking exhaust and diffuser.

Now to the really good bits.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2025 S3 gets an extra 23 PS and 20 Nm of torque from its 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine, giving it a total of 333 PS and 420 Nm of torque. That is enough to shave off 0.1 seconds and hit 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds.

But what good is all that power if you cannot turn properly? For the first time in the S3, Audi introduces the torque splitter borrowed from its more capable cousin, the RS 3. It uses an electronically controlled multiple disk clutch on each drive shaft to distribute torque between the rear wheel on the inside and the outside of the curve.

The setup lets the torque splitter send as much drive torque as possible to the rear axle and the rear wheel on the outside of the curve, which gives the car an oversteer bias to counter the understeer.

It also gets a new McPherson strut axle with a new steering knuckle fitted at the front (for a larger negative wheel camber), a progressive steering system (for greater steering responses, grip, and agility), better brakes (larger ventilated front discs and pads, new twin-piston calipers), new 19-inch 235/35 tires.

Expect the 2025 Audi S3 sedan and Sportback in dealerships late this year.