2021 Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) is 1500 kg (approximately 3307 lbs), while the maximum weight rating is 2020 kg (about 4453 lbs). This relatively low curb weight, combined with the vehicle’s compact dimensions, contributes to its agile handling and sporty performance. The maximum weight includes passengers, cargo, and fuel, ensuring the car operates within safe limits without compromising driving dynamics.

The Audi S3 Sportback offers a practical luggage capacity of 325 liters (approximately 11.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright, which is suitable for everyday needs such as groceries or small luggage. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity significantly increases to 1145 liters (around 40.4 cubic feet), providing ample room for larger items or extended cargo, enhancing its versatility as a sporty hatchback.

With a length of 4351 mm (171.3 inches) and a width of 1816 mm (71.5 inches) excluding mirrors—1984 mm (78.1 inches) when mirrors are opened—the Audi S3 Sportback fits comfortably into most standard residential garages. Typical garage widths range from 2400 mm to 3000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches), which provides adequate clearance even with the mirrors extended. Its height of 1438 mm (56.6 inches) also poses no parking height challenges.

Compared to its predecessor, the earlier Audi S3 Sportback generation was slightly shorter and narrower. The current 8Y model increased in length and width, measuring 4351 mm (171.3 inches) in length and 1816 mm (71.5 inches) in width compared to the previous generation's approximate 4250 mm (167.3 inches) length and narrower body. This growth translates to improved interior space and a more commanding road presence while maintaining its sporty hatchback identity.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) is competitively sized among premium compact hatchbacks. Its length of 4351 mm (171.3 inches) and width of 1816 mm (71.5 inches) position it slightly larger than rivals like the BMW M135i and the Mercedes-AMG A35 hatchback, offering a balance of sporty compactness and spaciousness. The generous luggage capacity and wider stance provide both practicality and stability that are key in the segment.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) is equipped with sporty 18-inch rims sized at 8.0 J x 18, fitted with low-profile 225/40 R18 92 Y XL tires. These specifications enhance cornering grip and handling precision, contributing to a firm and responsive ride. The XL (Extra Load) tires support higher loads, ensuring safety and stability, though ride comfort might be slightly firmer compared to models with larger tire sidewalls.

The roof load capacity of the Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) is rated at 75 kg (approximately 165 lbs). This allows for the installation of roof racks or carriers suitable for bikes, skis, or cargo boxes, provided the load does not exceed this limit. It's important to distribute weight evenly and secure loads properly to maintain vehicle stability and overall safety during driving.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering a balanced blend of performance and efficiency. It typically achieves improved fuel economy over its predecessor due to advanced engine management and lighter construction. This generation emphasizes dynamic driving with power outputs around 310 horsepower, offering spirited acceleration while maintaining respectable fuel efficiency for a performance hatchback.

The Audi S3 Sportback (8Y) showcases enhanced interior space, benefiting from its slightly increased exterior dimensions. Passengers enjoy more legroom and headroom, particularly in the rear seats, making it more comfortable for adult passengers during longer journeys. Audi’s use of premium materials and ergonomic design also elevates the comfort and quality feel, ensuring a more refined driving experience compared to prior generations.