The 2015 Audi S3 and 2015 Volkswagen Golf R are two sides of the same coin. Both ride on Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform and feature all-wheel-drive turbocharged eagerness. The vehicles fall into the compact performance segment, but they’re quite different. The twist is that the S3 delivers that familiar hatchback fun wrapped in a more stately sedan body style. Other markets got an S3 hatchback that Americans could only envy.
The Golf R, meanwhile, gives American buyers the full hot-hatch experience with big performance paired with the practicality of a larger, easier-to-use cargo area. While the S3 aims for sophistication with speed, the Golf R leans into its roots, offering everyday usefulness without muting the fireworks. The good news is that both offer strong value on the used market, though one of them clearly carries a premium.
This comparison focuses on the 2015-model-year Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R. Most of the details, aside from the current market values, apply to later versions as well. The S3 carried its fundamental underpinnings through the 2020 model year, while the Golf R lasted through 2019.
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Twins Under The Skin
2015 Audi S3
2015 Volkswagen Golf R
Engine
Turbocharged 2.0-liter Inline-4
Transmission
6-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain
All-wheel drive
Power
292 hp
Torque
280 lb-ft
0-60 mph
4.7 s
4.9 s
Top Speed
155 mph (governed)
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG)
23 City, 31 Highway, 26 Combined
23 City, 30 Highway, 26 Combined
Starting Price When New
$41,100
$36,595
The Audi S3 and Volkswagen Golf R were both redesigned for the 2015 model year, offering almost identical specifications due to their shared mechanicals. However, the Golf R offered the option of a six-speed manual, which the S3 missed. Where the two diverge are temperament and packaging.
Audi pitched the S3 as a compact sport sedan with sharper interior finishes and a more buttoned-down presentation. In contrast, the Golf R, as a dedicated performance offering from VW’s R performance brand, was pitched as something a little more hardcore, to go up against the likes of the Subaru WRX STI and Ford Focus RS.
Interior view of a 2015 Audi S3 SedanAudi
This difference in positioning was perhaps most evident inside, where in the S3 buyers could opt for features like premium leather trim, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and real metal accents. The Golf R was a little more about track driving ambition, with items such as grippy bucket seats, Alcantara trim, and even a Race mode all present.
The Race mode, designed to sharpen throttle response and shift points, was joined by Normal and Individual modes, and a Comfort mode when buyers added the available DCC adaptive damper suspension system. The S3 also had a drive mode selector, with Auto, Dynamic, Comfort, and Individual settings, but missed out on adjustable dampers initially. Both the Golf R and S3 also benefited from all-wheel-drive systems with an electronic differential lock that applies braking force to the inside wheel during cornering to reduce understeer and improve traction.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R finished in blue with black interiorVolkswagen
The biggest difference between the two cars is storage. The S3’s sedan trunk measures about 10 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and while its 60/40 folding seat expands capacity, published cargo figures with seats down aren’t officially documented. The Golf R’s hatchback design provides about 23 cubic feet with the seats up and roughly 53 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Hopping Behind The Wheel
Rear quarter view of a 2015 Audi S3 SedanAudi
Given the similarity of the two cars’ mechanically, you’d expect them to feel the same behind the wheel, but that’s not the case,, thanks to clever tuning and the two different body styles they carry. The S3 delivers a refined, quick, and competent driving experience that fits its sports sedan positioning more than it would for a hot hatch like the Golf R. While the steering is accurate and the chassis composed, feedback through the wheel is muted, especially in Comfort mode, leaving the car feeling a touch clinical rather than visceral – precise, but not seat-of-the-pants engaging.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R Volkswagen
By contrast, the 2015 Golf R leans a bit more toward playful performance without sacrificing everyday manners. The VW feels a bit more engaging and balanced in quick transitions and cornering, thanks to its chassis tuning and weight distribution. The steering and suspension deliver more of a connected feel than the S3, and optional adaptive damping broadens the spectrum from comfortable cruiser to a firm, sporty setup. Additionally, the Golf R’s driving modes, including Race, underscore its sportier character, sharpening throttle response and chassis dynamics in ways that feel a bit more intentional compared to the S3’s more measured settings.
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How Much To Pay Today
Front detail shot of a 2015 Audi S3 sedanAudi
As mentioned at the start of the article, the two cars, while similar, are priced very differently on the used market. A quick search of popular classifieds websites reveals that a 2015 Audi S3 sedans can be had for as little as $9,000, though at this price point, you’re looking at one with over 100,000 miles. For an example with lower mileage, be prepared to pay at least $12,000.
In contrast, the 2015 VW Golf R’s prices on the used market start at about $15,000 for high-mileage examples, and below 100,000 miles you would pay closer to $18,000. There are many examples priced over $20,000, showing how well the car’s value has held up, likely due to its enthusiast appeal and lower supply than the Audi. Remember, the Audi’s original MSRP was about $4,500 higher than the VW’s.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R finished in blue with black interior 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI finished in red with black interiorVolkswagen
When it comes to reliability, the S3 earns an above-average rating on RepairPal and an average annual repair cost of $920. Common issues reported include rough downshifts, occasional coolant leaks at the thermostat housing, and minor electrical or drivetrain quirks. Being mechanically related, the Golf R tends to have similar issues. However, one issue that can arise, and one that doesn’t appear to affect the S3 as much, is a clunking sound on acceleration, often due to worn front subframe bushings. The Golf R’s average annual repair cost is also slightly higher at $1,006.
As usual, a thorough pre-purchase inspection, a review of service history, and confirmation that routine maintenance has been performed are key to avoiding surprises.
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The Audi Represents Smart Buying Today
Front view of a 2015 Audi S3 SedanAudi
While potential buyers of the 2015 Audi S3 and 2015 Volkswagen Golf R will almost certainly have their own preferences, the Audi clearly leads when it comes to outright value on the used market. It delivers nearly all of the Golf R’s turbocharged AWD fun, coupled with a more refined, sedan-focused package, and today it comes at a significantly lower price. While the Golf R offers more cargo space, a more playful chassis, and a few extra enthusiast touches, the S3 balances speed, composure, and everyday usability with fewer compromises in comfort.
Both cars are ideal for buyers who want value without sacrificing performance. If you’re the type who wants your performance wrapped in a more innocuous, understated ride, the S3 is definitely the way to go. But if you crave a raw, hot-hatch experience and don’t mind the more aggressive styling, the Golf R will likely be a better fit just be prepared to pay the enthusiast premium that comes with it.
Sources: Audi, Volkswagen, AutoTempest, RepairPal
