VS
At a Glance
Power
394hp @ 5600
311hp @ 6600
Torque
369lb-ft @ 2250
280lb-ft @ 4800
Engine
2.5 L/151cc
3.5 L/211cc
Choosing between the Audi S3 and the Lexus IS is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi S3 delivers 394hp @ 5600 while the Lexus IS produces 311hp @ 6600. Pricing starts at $52,000 for the S3 and $49,950 for the IS. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
394hp @ 5600
311hp @ 6600
Torque (lb-ft)
369lb-ft @ 2250
280lb-ft @ 4800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/151cc
3.5 L/211cc
Engine Layout
—
V
Cylinders
5
6
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
7
6
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
20mpg
19 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
26 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.5gal
17.4gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
178.8in
185.4in
Width (in)
72.9in
72.4in
Height (in)
55.6in
56.5in
Wheelbase (in)
103.6in
110.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3627lbs
3913lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Lexus IS
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
IS
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Audi S3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Lexus IS
Lower starting price ($49,950)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the S3 or IS?
The S3 produces 394hp @ 5600 and 369lb-ft @ 2250 of torque while the IS delivers 311hp @ 6600 and 280lb-ft @ 4800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the S3 and IS?
The S3 starts from $52,000 and the IS from $49,950. The IS is cheaper by $2,050 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the S3 or the IS?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider