Launched in `2013`, the `S3 Sportback 8V` is for many one of the best takes on the Audi hot hatch idea: five doors, a decent boot, real performance and easy daily use. Against a BMW 3 Series, it remains more compact, more direct and often easier to live with. As a used buy it stands up well if the mechanical side and driveline were handled seriously.
The package mainly revolves around the `2.0 TFSI EA888` `CJXC`, with a manual gearbox or more often `S tronic`, plus `Haldex`-type all-wheel drive for `300 hp`. It is quick and broadly robust, but it needs real discipline around oil changes, turbo health, cooling and driveline service. A good `S3 Sportback 8V` should start cleanly, warm up normally, pull hard with no flat spots and stay coherent on four matching tyres.