Audi S3 vs. Golf R: which hot hatch is better?
Get a side-by-side of the Audi S3 vs. Golf R in our detailed comparison of these extra popular, extra capable hot hatches
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If you’re looking at the Audi S3 vs. Golf R, you’re faced with the best kind of problem - and we don’t feel sorry for you at all.
Both the S3 and Volkswagen Golf R are fiery motors with a lot to offer, inside and out. Whether you’re drawn in by the sporty styling, feisty drive or decked out interiors, you’re going to have a hard job picking between the two.
Take a look at our Audi S3 vs. Golf R review below for a bit of help choosing your favourite.
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Golf R vs. S3
Our guide will answer:
Which car has the better styling?
Is the Golf R or S3 better to drive?
Does the S3 or Golf R have better tech?
Is the Golf R or S3 more reliable?
What are the S3 vs. Golf R dimensions?
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: styling
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If there’s one thing you can expect from the Golf R and S3, it’s that they’re not bad-looking at all.
They’re a bit more subtle than out-and-out head turners, but you will see a lot of double takes when people realise it’s not just a normal VW or Audi.
The Audi makes a bigger deal of the grille at the front, blending in with other German stars like the BMW 1 Series. The VW gets the signature Golf look with a flatter bonnet and squinting headlights.
Both cars get styling upgrades from their less sporty siblings. The S3 gets a panoramic sunroof, ‘S’ badging and bigger wheels, while the Golf R has blue styling accents and contrasting door mirrors. Plus both have quad exhausts.
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: what are they like to drive?
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If you want a hot hatch, you’re probably after an exciting drive. And both the S3 and Golf R can offer just that.
The Golf R’s crowning glory is a 315hp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that can get from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds. Better yet, it’s getting a 2025 update that will provide even more power.
The S3 gets a similar engine – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder model that delivers up to 333hp and can shoot from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds.
Handling is great on both cars, but the Golf does typically feel a bit nippier and is a more reliable jump off the line.
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: interior and technology
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A 10-inch and eight-inch screen pairing come as standard in the Golf R, with the bigger screen being for the driver’s display. The eight-inch screen covers infotainment and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The S3 is similarly screeny, with a 10.1-inch infotainment screen and a digital instrument screen. As a bonus here, you get the Audi Virtual Cockpit that drivers fall in love with.
Style-wise, they’re both pretty much superb. You get comfortable seats and plenty of high-quality finish, but the Golf R does take the lead with its playful blue plaid upholstery.
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: boot space and practicality
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You’re probably not coming to the S3 or Golf R for ultimate practicality, but it helps that they’re usable for daily life.
The Golf R gets a slightly smaller boot than the standard Golf, knocking down form 380 litres to a 343-litre space. This is to make room for the four-wheel drive tech.
You get a similar space in the S3 – 325 litres of boot. That’s again smaller than the A3 Sportback that offers 380 litres.
Both cars are reasonably spacious inside for a hatchback, and you won’t feel too cramped if you’re perched in the back seats. Plus, you don’t mind losing some room when you’re gaining so much performance.
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: safety and reliability
The Audi S3 has yet to be tested by Euro NCAP, but the original A3 scored a full five-star safety rating in 2020 – so that’s a good indication of how it’ll perform in a crash test.
It’s the same situation with the Golf R, with the standard Golf received a five-star rating in 2022.
The Golf R comes with standard safety tech like adaptive cruise control, rear traffic alert, and parking sensors, while the S3 gets features like blind spot warnings, lane assist, and the pre sense front system.
Both cars are considered reliable, coming from brands with a reputation for solidly built vehicles that are tried and tested.
Audi S3 vs. Golf R: dimensions
Audi S3 Sportback
Length: 4,354mm
Height: 1,415mm
Width: 1,816mm
Boot: 325 litres
Golf R
Length: 4,290mm
Height: 1,458mm
Width: 1,789mm
Boot: 343 litres
Verdict: S3 vs. Golf R: which one is best for you?
Between the S3 vs. Golf R, you've got two very capable and sporty hatchbacks. The issue is, how do you know which one to choose?
The Golf R has more of a classic style to it, while the S3 is very much the new generation of hot hatch. The groovy interior of the Golf supports that, while the S3 is a bit more grown up.
They both feel relatively similar to drive and have similar stats, but you might prefer the S3 if the horsepower number is really important to you.
Take a look at our full range of used Audi S3 and VW Golf R models to compare them even further.