🔧 Recommended Turbo Upgrades for a Stage 3 Audi S3

Audience: Enthusiasts looking to upgrade their Audi S3 to Stage 3 performance
Applies to: Audi S3 8V (MQB platform) and similar EA888 Gen 3 engines

🚀 What does Stage 3 mean for an Audi S3?

“Stage 3” tuning refers to a significant performance upgrade—typically involving a larger turbocharger, supporting hardware, and custom software—to push the car well beyond stock performance. It’s often the final stage in a tuning progression, targeting 500–600+ HP depending on setup.

Common Stage 3 components include:

Big turbo upgrade
High-performance intercooler
High- and low-pressure fuel pump upgrades
Downpipe & exhaust system
Intake system
Custom ECU & TCU tuning
Optional: Methanol injection or E85 conversion

⚙️ Which turbochargers are most recommended?

Here are top choices for a Stage 3 turbo upgrade on the Audi S3:

🏆 TTE700 (The Turbo Engineers)

Power range: Up to ~600 HP
Fitment: Direct bolt-on
Strengths: Quick spool for its size, OEM+ reliability

🔥 Garrett G25-660 / G30-770

Power range: 550–700+ HP
Fitment: Requires aftermarket manifold and custom setup
Strengths: High flow, great top-end performance

✅ APR Stage 3+ Kit

Power range: 530–570 HP
Fitment: Full package (turbo, fueling, tune)
Strengths: Simplified upgrade path with OEM+ tuning

⚙️ Xona Rotor 8264 / 8267

Power range: 600–700+ HP
Fitment: Requires custom hardware and tuning
Strengths: Track-proven reliability and consistent boost delivery

🚘 Best turbo for daily driving?

If you’re looking for street-friendly performance with strong low-end torque and fast spool, consider the following:

TTE525R – Great for ~500 HP builds with OEM drivability
TTE700 – Higher power ceiling with good street manners

🔧 What supporting modifications are required?

To handle the increased boost and power, you'll need:

Front mount intercooler (Wagner, APR, etc.)
HPFP/LPFP upgrades (Autotech internals or full kits)
High-flow intake & 3” downpipe
Upgraded exhaust (turbo-back or cat-back)
DSG or manual clutch upgrade
Engine/trans mounts (recommended)
Custom ECU/TCU tuning (from Unitronic, EQT, Revo, etc.)

⚡️ Estimated Power Gains

Turbo Setup	Estimated Power	Fuel Type
TTE525R	~480–510 HP	98 RON + Ethanol blend
TTE700	~600 HP	E85 or Race Fuel
Garrett G25-660	~580–650 HP	E85
APR Stage 3+	~530–570 HP	98 RON or E85 mix

Note: Results vary based on altitude, tune quality, and vehicle condition.

🔒 Is it reliable?

Yes—with proper tuning and supporting mods. We recommend:

Premium synthetic oil changes every 5,000 km
Monitoring intake temps and boost levels
Using quality fuel (and ethanol blends if tuned for it)
Regular inspection of plugs, sensors, and PCV system

🧰 Need help or want recommendations?

If you're planning a build or need assistance choosing the right setup, reach out to your tuner or performance shop for tailored advice. A well-planned Stage 3 build can deliver incredible power without sacrificing daily drivability.

Audi S3 Stage 3