My new car is here next week.....so just a couple of final thoughts on the S3 after nearly 3 years ownership.
Just my 2p worth and all IMO....
I was considering S3/Golf R/AMG A45 at the time.
I took the S3 as it was ready, built and available and VW and Merc dealers were useless.
All in all a great car and if I could go back 3 years I would buy the same car and mostly same spec again.
Estoril Blue is a fantastic colour, but I would not go for Lunar Silver interior again.
It's nice and light, but as of late the drivers seat is looking a little bit tired. That's despite me treating and cleaning it regularly and with only 23k on clock. It will be hard work longer term to keep it looking good.
Depreciation has been quite good. Only looked at p/x and one independent dealer. Have been offered £19k and £19.5k respectively without any pushing.
If I had time and inclination would get £20k+ easily. They seem to be very sought after 2nd hand.
I always think anything over 50% back after 3 years is good. S3 is giving me nearer 60%.....albeit its on lower mileage than my previous cars.
Only two fault issues have been water pump and fuel pump replaced under warranty at service time. Other than that the car has been faultless.
If I don't get on with the M2 for any reason I will get shut and maybe consider a Cayman.
But my first port of call will be to look at what RS3 models are available. As I would be very happy to be back in an Audi - but would fancy something a bit more exclusive. And I don't like/need a big car.
Which brings me to my only real minus. In the early years the S3 was rare. I hardly ever saw another one. Now there are 3 just in our work car park.
I would worry that the cheap lease and PCP deals are making them more commonplace.
It would be a shame for anyone who buys if it turned into a Golf R situation with the 2nd hand market flooded and prices hit accordingly.
Growing car crime is the other concern. But that's going to be the same with anything I buy unfortunately.
All in all a great car. Will be sad to see it go.