If you've ever ventured into Audi's online configurator, you've likely come across the term 'S line'.
But what does it actually mean? Essentially, S line is a trim level available on cars across Audi's range, from the A1 hatchback to the luxurious A8. It's designed to give you the aesthetic look of a high-performance model without the hefty price tag or running costs of an S or RS model. It’s a way to enjoy sportier styling, premium interior touches, and enhanced driving dynamics without stepping into full-blown performance territory.
For 2025, Audi has refined the S line package across multiple models, adding upgraded standard equipment, sharper exterior styling, and modernised technology. Let’s break down what you get with S line and how it compares to Audi’s other trims.
Audi S line exterior
S line models serve as a bridge between Audi’s standard trims – such as Sport and Technik – vand the high-performance S and RS models.
Take the latest Audi A3 S line, for example. Gone is the subdued grille of lower trims, replaced by a wider, flatter 'Singleframe' grille with a hexagonal design, inspired by Audi’s high-performance RS models. Larger side intakes and a revised bumper give the car a lower, more aggressive stance, making it instantly recognisable as a sportier variant.
Lighting plays a big role in the 2025 S line models. Standard LED headlights remain, but Audi now offers up to four selectable daytime running light signatures, or patterns, through the infotainment system on models equipped with Matrix LED headlights – an advanced feature hitherto reserved for flagship models. This means you can personalise the way your Audi looks as it approaches.
Other S line upgrades include distinctive badging, sharper side skirts, and larger alloy wheels. The A3 S line, for example, moves up to 18-inch alloys (compared to 17-inch on Sport trim), while the A5 S line gets 19-inch wheels with an intricate twin-V-spoke design. These sit beneath firmer sports suspension, typically lowering the ride height by 15mm-20mm for improved handling and a more purposeful look. At the back, models like the A3 and A5 now feature beefed up bumpers and sporty, motorsport-inspired diffusers that add to the dynamic aesthetic.
Audi S line interior
Step inside an S line model, and you’ll immediately notice the upgrades. Audi has introduced more high-tech and premium materials for 2025, with sustainability also playing a role in the redesign. The seats, for instance, now feature Dinamica microfibre – a suede-like, partially recycled material –offering a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather while keeping a luxurious feel.
The sporty theme continues with a flat-bottomed steering wheel featuring S badging, stainless steel pedals, and a black headlining that enhances the cockpit-like atmosphere. Brushed aluminium or textured inlays add a sophisticated touch, while models like the A5 and Q5 S line get illuminated door sills for an extra sense of occasion as you get in and out.
Technology is another highlight of the S line range. From 2025, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit – a fully digital instrument cluster – is now standard across the range, as is a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. Ambient lighting is also included, with models like the A3 offering customisable 30-colour ambient lighting. Wireless phone charging and multiple USB-C ports round off the upgraded tech suite.
Most S line models feature sports seats that offer more lateral support than the standard car's. All this makes an S line car feel like a sporty S or RS model, even from inside.
Why would you buy an Audi S line?
The appeal of S line models lies in their balance of sportiness and everyday usability. You get the dynamic styling and premium feel of an Audi S or RS model without the associated high-performance engine, insurance premiums, or fuel consumption.
For example, the 2025 Audi A3 S line starts at just over £32,400, offering the sleek looks of a performance hatch with the efficiency of Audi’s mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines. The 35 TFSI (a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 150PS) delivers north of 45 mpg, while the 35 TDI (a 2.0-litre diesel with 150PS) can achieve close to 60 mpg.
Larger models follow a similar pattern. The new A5 S Line begins at just under £43,000, bringing aggressive styling and a plush interior while still achieving up to nearly 60 mpg in diesel form.
Why wouldn't you buy an Audi S line?
You've heard the expression 'all shirt and no trousers', right? Well, that's the sort of accusation you'll find aimed at you when you own an Audi S line – it looks quick, but really it's no quicker than a regular model with the same engine.
For instance, the A7 Sportback 45 TFSI S Line (the 265PS petrol model) does 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds, whereas the RS7 Sportback, with its 630PS engine, cuts that to 3.4 seconds.
Meanwhile, while S line models get lowered suspension, they don't necessarily have the quattro four-wheel drive you get on S and RS cars and they definitely don't have the clever differentials and huge brakes that make these sporty versions so capable on a twisting country road.
The S (in Audi S line) stands for Sport. The "line" just indicates it's a trim level rather than the faster S models.
Black Edition models have the same sporty looks as S line cars but, as the name suggests, the parts of an S line finished in chrome get the matt black treatment instead.
TFSI stands for Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection and means that fuel can be squirted directly into the cylinder for improved efficiency. The fuel cools the cylinder which creates a higher compression ratio by removing the heat from the intake air. This is said to improve fuel economy by 15%.
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