2026 Audi S3 Interior Refresh Revealed with Controversial Steering Wheel and Infotainment Upgrades
Audi’s performance-oriented S3 sedan is in line for another round of updates for model year 2026, following a modest refresh for 2025. The changes, though incremental, hint at a more tech-forward — and slightly divisive — interior direction that may not sit well with all traditional Audi fans.
Interior Overhaul in Progress
Recent spy shots of a red S3 prototype reveal a new steering wheel design borrowed from the upcoming A5 (formerly A4) lineup. Most notably, the wheel features flat plastic Audi rings and capacitive touch buttons in place of conventional physical controls — a move that has already drawn criticism for its perceived downgrade in tactile quality and usability.
Additional camouflage across the dashboard and center stack suggests that Audi is revamping the digital instrument cluster, infotainment screen, and air vents. The central display appears to have been repositioned higher, likely replacing the current 10.1-inch touchscreen with a larger 12.8-inch unit, possibly borrowed from the next-gen A5. Some speculation even hints at a 14.5-inch screen, although that might be considered excessive for a compact executive model.
Though details remain sparse, subtle changes to the shifter and center console are also expected. The prototype continues to use the familiar S tronic dual-clutch transmission, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters rather than column-mounted — a practical choice due to limited stalk clearance.
Expected Rollout Across the A3 Lineup
These upgrades won’t be limited to the S3. Audi is likely to carry the changes over to both the standard A3 and the high-performance RS 3, with all three expected to debut by late 2025 as 2026 models. Most global A3 variants are produced in Ingolstadt, though the long-wheelbase A3L is a China-exclusive, built via the FAW-VW partnership.
Engine and Platform Overview
The S3 remains underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, shared with the VW Golf, Cupra Leon, and Skoda Scala. Power continues to come from the proven EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, delivering a healthy 328 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. While the engine features a dated iron block, it still offers strong performance for the segment.
However, the S3 remains outgunned by the RS 3, which houses the iconic 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo engine. Unfortunately, due to tightening emissions regulations and the rapid advancement of smaller-displacement engines, this beloved powerplant may soon be retired. Despite its age, it still outshines even AMG’s more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder in terms of sound and character.
Bottom Line
The 2026 Audi S3 is shaping up to be more refined and tech-heavy, though its new interior elements may polarize fans who prefer physical controls and premium finishes. Still, the blend of performance and practicality should keep it a solid contender in the compact sports sedan segment — especially if Audi can keep the five-cylinder RS 3 alive a little longer.