The Audi A3, S3 and RS3 models have long been favorite cars among enthusiasts who want a blend of luxury, performance, and style.
But whether you own a base A3 or high-performance RS3, sometimes stock still doesn’t cut it.
Aftermarket modifications for this Audi range will enhance the aesthetics, performance and driving experience and choosing the right upgrade allows you to personalize your car bringing even more enjoyment to your driving.
We’ve compiled some of the best modifications for the Audi A3, S3, and RS3, focusing on both exterior styling and performance enhancements for models ranging from 2014 all the way to 2024.
Explore our full range of aftermarket performance parts here:
Exterior Styling Mods for the Audi A3/S3/RS3
One of the most popular ways to modify and upgrade your Audi A3, S3 or RS3 is by upgrading the exterior styling. They’re affordable, enhance your car’s visuals, but also help with aerodynamics and subtle performance as well.
Adding your own personality using a front grille, rear diffuser, custom spoiler or something as simple as mirror caps gives your Audi a sportier, more aggressive look.
A lot of the styling mods are inspired by the RS3’s factory design, which are often considered the pinnacle of Audi’s compact performance lineup.
Front Grilles (Honeycomb & RS3-Style)
The front grille is the face of your Audi, arguably the most important aesthetic feature.
A popular choice is upgrading to a honeycomb style grille which can instantly transform your car’s front end. These typically feature an aggressive mesh pattern and a matte or gloss finish.
They also come in a lower mesh grill pattern for some extra style.
Check out our 2017-2020 Audi RS3 Style Honeycomb Grille with Lower Mesh
Beside the looks, honeycomb grills can also improve airflow to the radiator and intercooler, subtly boosting performance.
Front Lips & Splitters
To complement an upgraded grille, front lips and splitters add a lower, more aggressive look to your Audi’s front bumper.
Check out our 2014-2016 Audi A3 Carbon Fiber Front Lip | 8V A3
Front lips not only improve the car’s appearance but they also provide aerodynamic benefits by increasing downforce on your car at higher speeds.
Spoilers (Ducktail, OEM & RS3 Styles)
Audi A3/S3/RS3’s have no shortage or rear spoiler options, another great way to mix up the aesthetics of your car.
Options vary from subtle OEM-style lips, to more pronounced ducktail spoilers.
Each style offers a different look and aerodynamic effect.
Check out the more pronounced 2014-2016 Audi A3/S3 Renntech Style Carbon Fiber Trunk Spoiler
No matter which spoiler you choose, the carbon fiber gloss finish of GCA’s spoiler give a dynamic look making them a great choice and modification to your car.
Rear Diffusers
Rear diffusers are functional and stylish upgrades that enhance your car’s rear-end while improving aerodynamic efficiency. By managing airflow underneath your car, diffusers reduce turbulence and drag at high speeds, making for a much smoother ride.
Buy online the 2017-2020 Audi A3/S3 Carbon Fiber KB Style Diffuser
Installing a diffuser can be a relatively simple addition with most having a simple bolt-on system that allows for easy assembly.
Mirror Caps
One of the most subtle, yet effective styling mods is upgrading your side mirror caps. Carbon fiber mirror caps for the Audi A3, S3 or RS3 typically feature a sleek, glossy finish, which contrast nicely again your body paint - all while adding a touch of sportiness.
Replacing mirror caps is a cheap way to add a premium look and feel to your vehicle’s exterior. They’re easy to install, usually snapping into place without the need for special tools, and are a popular choice for reducing weight and enhancing the appearance of your car.
Fog Light Grilles
Fog light grilles are another small but impactful exterior modification. There are bigger upgrades to be made to the front end of your car so fog light grilles are often overlooked, but replacing the factory grills with blacked-out or honeycomb-style grilles can sharpen and tie in the front end appearance of your Audi.
Performance Mods for the A3/S3/RS3
Upgrading the looks of your car is great, but If you’re a real rev head, exterior mods don't quite cut it. Performance upgrades can unlock the true potential of these sportier Audi models.
The A3, S3, and RS3 all feature turbocharged engines that respond well to modifications, allowing owners to increase horsepower, torque and throttle response with a few small tweaks.
Performance mods can range from bolt-on parts that improve airflow to more involved upgrades that require tuning. The following are some of the most effective and popular performance modifications for these models.
Valved Exhaust Systems
Upgrading your A3 to a sports valved exhaust system is the go to for Audi enthusiasts because it offers both performance and sound improvements. Valved exhausts allow you to control the exhaust note via a valve that opens and closes depending on how you drive or with manual control.
This freedom means you can be quiet when needed, but unleash a louder, more aggressive exhaust note when you want.
Check out our GCA Performance line 2015-2020 Audi RS3 Valved Sport Exhaust System
Valved exhaust systems also offer reduced backpressure, which leads to improved engine efficiency and a slight increase in horsepower, making them a great upgrade for your Audi.
Downpipes
Replacing your factory downpipe with a high-flow aftermarket version is one of the most effective ways to increase turbo efficiency and power output. Downpipes connect the turbocharger with the rest of the exhaust system, helping bring the best out of your engine.
Buy online our 2021+ Audi RS3 Downpipes
GCA downpipes offer larger diameters and smoother bends, which improve exhaust flow and turbo spool. Combined with proper tuning, downpipes can yield significant horsepower gains.
It’s always important to consider emission regulations in your area before installation.
Cold Air Intakes
Cold air intakes are a common modification aimed at improving how the engine breathes by drawing in cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay.
Cooler air contains more oxygen, which helps the engine produce more power and improves throttle response.
While cold air intakes themselves may not add huge power gains, they complement other modifications and contribute to a more responsive driving experience.
Charge Pipes & Intercoolers
Upgrading the charge pipes and intercooler is essential for those looking to maximize the performance of their turbocharged Audi. The charge pipe carries compressed air from the turbo of the engine, and factory pipes can be prone to cracking or leading under increased pressures.
Similarly, upgrading to a larger and more efficient RS3 intercooler helps reduce intake air temps, preventing heat soak and maintaining consistent power.
So, Which Mod Should You Get First?
Deciding which modification to get first depends largely on your budget and goals with your build.
For those new to modding their Audi A3, S3 or RS3, starting with some simply exterior upgrades like spoilers, mirror caps or perhaps a front grille gives immediate visual impact without breaking the bank. These mods are all relatively easy to install, also making them a great first choice.
If it’s performance your charging, it’s hard to go past a valved exhaust system. While a bit more expensive they improve both sound and responsiveness of your car, and lay the groundwork for more significant upgrades in the future.
If you’re serious about power gains, investing in some upgraded downpipes (as well as pairing with an intercooler) will unlock the full potential of your turbocharged engine.
