Facelifted Audi S3: More power, style, and performance

Facelifted Audi S3: More power, style, and performance

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‍A couple of weeks ago, Audi revealed its refreshed A3 range, which boasts streamlined looks to keep it fresh and relevant in its respective segment. 

Despite the modest changes, the refreshed Audi A3 brings a lot of features to be desired, thus making it a strong contender in the segment. This time around, the German carmaker has lifted the veil off its performance S3 models, which pack more power than ever before. 

First things first. The refreshed S3 is available in sedan and hatchback body configurations, and like before, the power still comes from the same 2.0-litre TFSI engine, but now with 245kW and 420Nm—32kW and 20Nm more than the outgoing model. 

Whichever body configuration you choose, Audi says the S3 will charge the drag strip from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds (0.2 seconds quicker than before) en route to a top speed of 250km/h while shifting through a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission. For comparison, the S3’s current counterpart, the VW Golf R, completes the same 0-100km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds. Furthermore, for extra grip when negotiating corners, the engineers fitted the new S3 with stiffer bearings and new pivot bearings for the wishbones. 

There’s features like a standard S sports suspension, which lowers the body by 15mm compared to the regular A3 models, and an optional S sport suspension with adaptive dampers can be had as an option. 

As standard, the S3 range comes fitted with 18-inch wheels, while two 19-inch wheel options can also be specified and include performance tyres with optimised dry handling and improved braking behaviour. These are home to larger ventilated brake discs on the front axle and larger rear steel brakes. 

Aesthetically, the S3 models are sharper than before, thanks to a hexagonal, frameless single-frame grille that features a new flatter and wider structure with large, angular side air intakes, a striking front spoiler, a new rear bumper, and, in S fashion, four tailpipes. For a more blaring cacophony, an optional performance exhaust system can be fitted as an option. 

Four exterior shades are available for the S3: District Green, Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and, for the first time, Daytona Grey in a matte finish.

Inside, the S3 gets the same 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Other notable changes include a smaller e-shifter, new fabric inserts with lighting elements, and decorative cabin lighting now with 30 colour options. 

The Audi S3 in general is a remarkable piece of technology that has matured through the years. With its latest updates, the S3 aims to establish itself as a high-performance model, further enhanced by the stature associated with its premium badge. 

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