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In this suspension tuning guide, we'll explain how to reduce understeer and unlock more cornering grip from the Audi 8V S3 and RS3. The following upgrades will also improve steering feedback and weighting to ramp up driver engagement.
The S3 and RS3 (8V) are based on VAG's MQB platform. Powerful engine performance and four-wheel-drive make them popular with hot hatchback fans, yet their handling on the road and track is a frustrating blend of understeer and poor communication.
The great news is that bolt-on upgrades manufactured and supplied by Suspension Secrets cure these dynamic flaws. In this S3 and RS3 suspension tuning guide, we’ll explain how correcting front camber and uprating springs and dampers achieves superior cornering ability and boosts driving enjoyment.
8V S3/RS3 Suspension & Handling Overview
The Audi S3 (8V) was produced from 2013 to 2020 and is based on VAG's modular MQB platform. Up front are MacPherson struts, and at the rear is a multi-link setup. Power comes from a two-litre four-cylinder turbo developing 300hp.
The RS3 debuted at the end of 2014 and was also manufactured until 2020. Under the bonnet lurks a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo producing 367hp. Like the S3, the 8V RS3 boasts Quattro all-wheel-drive. However, key differences include the RS3's firmer damping, wider front track, and reduced ride height. The RS3 also boasts a thicker rear anti-roll bar.
At the 8V's facelift in 2017, the RS3's output was raised to 400hp and the S3's to 310hp. Minor styling changes inside and out were also part of the mid-life update.
S3 & RS3 Suspension Limitations
When driving an S3 or RS3 hard on the road or track, the MQB chassis's inherent issues come to the fore. Common complaints include:
- Front end understeer/push
- Steering low on feedback and weighing
- Underwhelming turn-in response
- Excessive front tyre wear on track
- Poor body control through transitions and during heavy braking
Without these problems, the S3 and RS3 would be epic driver's cars. There is significant untapped potential in these hot hatchbacks, and thanks to their powerful engines they become forces to be reckoned with following suspension upgrades.
Common Handling Problems (And How To Fix Them)
The Audi S3 and RS3 (8V) suspension upgrades covered in this guide allow you to achieve the following...
1. Increase front camber and significantly reduce understeer
2. Improve the clarity and weight of steering communication
3. Enhance overall handling precision and consistency
4. Reduce the ride height and improve body control
Once these improvements have been made, the S3 and RS3 will feel far more stable, precise and responsive at higher speeds. They will also transmit grip levels to the driver with greater clarity, boosting overall confidence.
Suspension Geometry & Alignment Setup (Top Tip)
A full suspension geometry alignment is essential after installing new suspension parts. By correctly adjusting camber, toe, and caster (where available), alignment ensures you maximise grip, stability, and tyre life.
Benefits of a Suspension Geometry Setup
- Sharper steering response
- Increased cornering grip
- Improved rear traction
- Enhanced braking stability
A professional alignment is the single most cost-effective handling upgrade you can make.
Audi S3/RS3 Suspension Upgrades
This section covers essential Audi S3 and RS3 (8V) suspension upgrades that will deliver a new level of handling performance on the road and track. These bolt-on parts are perfect if you are craving more engagement, response and feedback from your Golf.
Adjustable Camber & Caster Plates
Why VW Golf Camber Plates Matter
- Reduce understeer
- Sharpen turn-in
- Increase steering feedback
- Improve tyre wear on track
Suspension Secrets camber plates also increase caster angle, providing dynamic camber gain as steering lock is applied. As well as further improving turn-in response, caster also enhances steering feel and weighting. An added bonus is that Suspension Secrets camber plates are fully compatible with aftermarket coilovers that use the OEM top mounts.
KW V3 COILOVERS
Aftermarket coilovers are a superb upgrade for fast road and track-focused 8V S3 and RS3 models. We recommend systems from manufacturers such as KW, Moton and Öhlins.
The 2-way KW V3 Coilovers feature independent compression and rebound adjustment. These 2-way adjustable S3/RS3 coilovers increase chassis response, reduce body roll, and improve overall balance for road and track driving.
2-way Coilovers Benefits:
- Independent bump and rebound tuning
- Improves handling, grip and body control
- Offers ride height adjustment
- Suitable for the road and track
Moton 3-Way Coilovers
For Audi S3 and RS3 (8V) owners searching for the ultimate coilover system for track driving, look no further than 3-way Moton Coilovers.
Moton 3-Way coilovers for the 8V S3 and RS3 feature low- and high-speed bump adjustment, plus rebound adjustment. Three-way adjustable coilovers allow you to control grip level, chassis balance, comfort level and stability - independently of each other. This is why they're used in professional motorsport.
How 3-way Coilovers Work
Rebound: How fast the suspension extends after compression
Low-speed compression: Affects handling balance
High-speed compression: Affects ride quality and grip over bumps
Aftermarket coilovers also allow you to adjust front and rear ride heights. Once professionally set up, coilovers help the tyres maintain more consistent contact with the road, improving handling performance.
S3 & RS3 (8V) Golf Suspension FAQs
Will suspension upgrades really reduce understeer?
Yes. The Audi S3 and RS3 (8V) run limited front camber from factory. Adding adjustable camber plates increases front-end grip and significantly reduces understeer.
Are camber plates enough, or do I need coilovers?
Camber plates deliver a big improvement on their own, but pairing them with coilovers such as KW V3 Coilovers or Moton 3-Way Coilovers greatly improves body control and overall balance.
What’s the difference between 2-way and 3-way coilovers?
2-way coilovers adjust rebound and compression together, while 3-way systems separate high- and low-speed compression, allowing finer control of grip, stability and ride quality.
Is a geometry alignment necessary after installing suspension parts?
Yes. A professional alignment ensures camber, toe and caster are correctly set, maximising grip, steering precision and tyre life.
Will upgraded suspension ruin ride comfort?
No. When properly specified and set up, adjustable suspension can remain comfortable for daily driving while delivering much sharper handling.
Tested and developed by Suspension Secrets through extensive road and track evaluation, these upgrades unlock the full potential of the Audi S3 and RS3 (8V).