Audi has officially pulled the curtain back on its most formidable S3 variant to date, marking a significant leap not just in power but in its drift capabilities. Say hello to what could soon become a fixture in your rear-view mirror, blending speed with an all-new playful side.
This isn’t just any Audi S3; it’s the most potent iteration to grace the roads. Equipped with the same ‘torque splitter’ technology found in the RS3, it heralds a new era of dynamic driving for the model. Audi has ingeniously engineered this system for “fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels,” promising an exhilarating behind-the-wheel experience that tilts more towards fun than ever before.
Imagine dialling up the fun on an already swift horizon; the new S3 obliges with a system that encourages sideways action with just the right amount of throttle. Our test drive revealed a car that’s not just quick, but joyfully eager to showcase its agility. The addition of the ‘Dynamic +’ mode not only primes the car for spirited launches but also sharpens throttle response and hastens gear shifts.
Under the bonnet, the trusted 2.0-litre TFSI engine receives a boost, now delivering 328bhp and 310lb ft of torque. This tweak shaves off the 0-62mph sprint to a mere 4.7 seconds, with the top speed capped at the familiar 155mph mark. Both the engine and the seven-speed DSG have been fine-tuned for a more spirited drive, complemented by an array of driving modes including the aforementioned ‘Dynamic +.’
The S3’s underpinnings haven’t been overlooked. Expect tighter steering and enhanced grip thanks to stiffer bearings and newly introduced pivot bearings. The ride height drops by 15mm compared to the standard A3, and the vehicle benefits from a suite of suspension and steering enhancements, ensuring that every drive is as exhilarating as it is secure. From standard 18-inch wheels to optional 19s, and from upgraded vented front brake discs to two-piston callipers and new brake pads, every detail
The latest S3 sports a bold look, complete with the ‘singleframe’ grille, aggressive spoilers and bumpers, and RS-inspired trim elements. The quad exhausts and a selection of metallic paints ensure it stands out, while the interior, with its new air vents, fabric inlays, and ambient lighting, offers a stark contrast to the exterior’s audacity. Central to the cockpit is a 10.1-inch screen surrounded by an array of apps, enveloping the driver in a high-tech, yet distinctly moody environment.
While exact figures are yet to be announced, anticipate the new S3 Sportback and saloon to command a starting price around £45k. For those curious about the outgoing model’s legacy, a six-month review offers insights into its long-term appeal.
Images courtesy of audi.co.uk
- Engine: 2.0-litre TFSI
- 0-62mph: 4.7 seconds
- Power: 328bhp / 333ps
- Torque: 420 Nm
- Top speed: Limited to 155mph
