What is Audi S Line? Styling and trim level explained
Get to know the Audi S Line trim and see if it’s the right fit for you
What does S Line mean for Audi models?
If you’re in the market for a used Audi and have browsed the massive range of options, you might be wondering ‘what is Audi S Line?’.
Audi S Line models are a mid-range to high-spec trim option that adds extra features, flashy tech and unique styling.
The S Line models offer the aesthetic of sporty, performance-focused models without the larger, more powerful engines. This means you get a sharply styled Audi that doesn’t cost as much as the beefy models to run.
Exterior styling upgrades with Audi S Line
Upgrading to the Audi S Line trim means the exterior of the car will get a makeover.
These extra touches give the car an aggressive look and mean it’ll stand out among other Audis.
The upgrades you get will depend on the Audi you choose, with not all models getting each feature.
S Line models get distinctive badging on the front of the car, and there will often be a unique chunky grille.
There can also be silver detailing around the front and rear bumpers, as well as fresh headlight options that amp up the aggression of the car.
You’ll usually find the alloys on Audi S Line models are an inch larger than the Sport trim levels and two inches larger than on Technik models.
There will often be rear spoilers on offer, plus side skirts and sports suspension to get your Audi sitting lower and driving firmer.
There may also be upgrades to the brakes and steering that help complement the S Line models.
These extra touches aren’t paired with flashier engines, though. The S Line is all about styling and minor handling improvements.
Interior changes for the S Line trim
The interior of Audi S Line models gets sporty upgrades as well, with the most noticeable being the S Line sports seats that give you a comforting hug while you drive. They keep you snug in your chair and are finished in leather.
There’s a matching sports steering wheel, with some S Line models getting a flat-bottomed wheel option.
You’ll also find extra metal trim around the interior, plus S Line kick plates and stainless steel sport pedals.
Just like the exterior styling, not all Audi S Line models get every one of these interior upgrades.
Take a look at the details on the specific S Line Audi you’re considering to make sure it meets your expectations.
Audi models available with an S Line version
All modern Audis on the market are available with the S Line trim, and buying a used S Line model can mean you get these upgrades at a lower cost.
The Audi A3 S Line is a popular model that looks slick with the sporty upgrades. These cars give you the look of the famed RS3 without the hefty price tag and aggressive engines.
With the A3 S Line, you can expect larger alloy wheels, sports suspension and an aggressive bumper.
For a sporty SUV, the Audi Q2 S Line is a great size and is a treat to be seen in.
The extra menacing styling goes well with the SUV ride height, and you also get sports suspension and sports seats.
Take a look at our range of used Audi S Line models:
Is the Audi S Line package worth the cost?
The Audi S Line trim is worth it if you want to ramp up the styling of your car but don’t want to commit to more powerful engines.
While some might say the sleek S Line styling is pointless without the matching sport engines, you’ll need to remember an Audi is never going to be boring to drive.
You don’t get the fiery engines that come with the Audi RS models, but the sporty touches complement Audi’s standard driving experience all the same.
You also don’t have to pay the higher running costs that come with a larger engine, and the initial purchasing cost of S Line models is less than the RS equivalent.
Adding the S Line package isn’t much more expensive than standard models, and you can find good deals on used S Line models.
For example, a brand-new Audi Q5 on the brand’s website usually costs upwards of £46,700 for a Sport trim, with the S Line trim costing £48,850.
Should I buy a used Audi S Line?
If you’re not bothered about having extra power and punchier engines but still enjoy an aggressive look, an Audi S Line model might be right for you.
A brand-new Audi A4 Avant S Line on the brand’s website starts at around £40,125 for the 35 TFSI S tronic model. The Audi RS4 Avant has a similar sporty look but starts at £69,820 on Audi’s website.
By choosing the S Line trim over the performance-focused models, you’re still getting a spicy car that’s a lot of fun to drive.
Don’t let that put you off Audi RS models, though. If you want something powerful and with superb handling, the RS options are ideal.