I thought the new S3 looked just as terrible as the Mk8 does tbh.
If you hate one, you'll hate the other IMHO.
Unfortunately we all have to make our evaluations against the current styling vogue and though there is much do not like across the ranges and feel previous editions were better styled, have tailored my view to comparing to direct competition.
very happy with my TCR think the MK 7.5 styling is nailed on the best in recent times and its going to be a keeper given what seeing coming from the marquee brands now.
Only brand where can readily state improved is the Mercedes A35 as everything is better than the previous model, and be interested to see the facelift version.
Back to the S3, think it's as good as will see on the current styling vogue and when you beef the wheels up it looks pretty decent. Even though aspects not like on the interior, too angular, loss of the STronic lever, its much nicer than the MK 8
If had to choose MK 8 R or new S3 it would be the S3 pretty easily.