The Audi S3 distills all the performance of Audi’s S lineup into a smaller package. Available as a 5-passenger subcompact sedan, the S3 visually differentiates itself from the A3 with a platinum gray single-frame grille, standard LED headlights with dynamic turn signals, 19-inch sport wheels, and quad-tip exhaust outlets.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers the S3, which makes 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, and pairs with a 7-speed “S tronic" dual-clutch transmission. Fuel economy for the 2019 Audi S3, which comes with Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD), is 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined.

There are two trims for the S3: Premium Plus and Prestige. The Premium Plus comes standard with 12-way power front seats, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, brushed aluminum inlays, leather seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and Audi Drive Select, which features Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual drive modes. For tech, Premium Plus comes with Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The available Technology Package offers Audi Connect Prime, navigation, and a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo, while the S Sport Package offers red brake calipers and Audi magnetic ride.

The Prestige trim makes the Bang & Olufsen system standard and adds a parking-assist system, front and rear parking sensors, navigation with voice control, and adaptive cruise control that can stop and go with traffic. For tech, the Prestige trim comes with the Audi Virtual Cockpit, which replaces the instrument panel with a color digital screen.

For safety, the Premium Plus comes standard with a reversing camera, a tire-pressure-monitoring system, and forward-collision warning. The Prestige trim includes lane-departure warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

The Audi S3 is more than just a sharp little subcompact sedan. From its standard infotainment and driver-assistance features to its potent engine, the 2019 Audi S3 is worth a look for the performance-minded commuter.