Audi S3, winning sporty recipe

Take a benchmark compact in its segment, add a few horses and a sporty look, and you have the recipe that makes the Audi S3 a success.

The new Audi S3 is much more than a simple facelift of the previous iteration. Visually, it gains in character thanks to a more expressive front end, a sporty diffuser, and four exhaust outlets to set the tone for follow-up cars.

The 2.0 TFSI engine benefits from a power increase of 23 hp, bringing total output to 330 horsepower. The maximum torque gains 20 Nm to 420 Nm, available over a broad range from 2,100 to 5,500 rpm. The Audi S3 now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed limited to 250 km/h.

The S3 mainly benefits from the innovations introduced in its sporty big sister RS 3, notably the torque distributor. Utilizing an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch on each drive shaft, it allows for optimal torque distribution between the rear wheels. It adds a “Dynamic Plus” driving mode to the usual five profiles (auto, comfort, dynamic, individual, and efficient). The torque distributor then sends the maximum possible torque to the rear axle and the outside rear wheel during a turn. The result is a highly playful oversteering behavior, promising the ability to drift the beautiful car!

A technical and stylish S3

Standard on Audi S3 models, the S sport suspension lowers the car by 15 mm compared to the Audi A3. Offered with a standard 18-inch set 225/40, the S3 also provides an optional set of two 19-inch tires 235/35. The front houses ventilated steel discs measuring now 357 mm in diameter and 34 mm thick, 4 mm larger than before. These are perforated, and while Audi claims it improves the visual appeal, we dare to hope it also enhances their performance!

A subtle style detail is a front wing with two vertical supports inspired by motorsport, linking the large angular side air intakes and emphasizing the sporty character of the car. You can choose from several new metallic finishes, including District Green, Ascari Blue, and Progressive Red. For the first time, Daytona Gray is available in a matte finish.

The Audi S3 will be available in the second quarter of 2024 at a list price of €63,000 for the S3 Sportback and €63,565 for the S3 Sedan. Due to the combustion engine, unfortunately, you’ll have to double this final cost by adding a completely dissuasive eco-tax of €60,000. Who will buy it new at over €120,000?

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