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Audi A3 S3 (2006-2013) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 31 - 34 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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The S3 looks pretty expensive, particularly when compared to high-performance hatchbacks from SEAT, Mazda and Vauxhall. However, its premium status and high power output mean it stands on its own. Official fuel consumption figures suggest an average in excess of 33mpg, which is good, although push it hard and it’s easy to languish in the low 20s. Insurance, tax and servicing will also all be expensive.

As you’d expect the S3 is quite a polluting model with average CO2 emissions of 196g/km. Fuel economy is respectable for a four-wheel drive hot hatch though with an average figure of 33mpg.

Audis tend to have above average reliability, and a regularly serviced and maintained S3 should give no major cause for concern.