The German brand’s latest performance car is due to land in Australia very soon and it promises some big thrills.
Audi’s spicy little S3 hatchback and sedan are due to hit Aussie showrooms early next year.
Prices kick off at $69,900 (before on-road costs) for the hatch version – the sedan costs an extra $2500. This is an increase of more than $5000 compared to the outgoing version.
The Audi S3 shares its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Golf R, which is due to arrive in Australia next year.
The S3 provides plenty of sizzle for the money thanks to a feisty 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine making 228kW and 400Nm. This is a bump of 15kW and 20Nm over the previous version.
Peak torque is delivered from just 2000rpm, which should translate to plenty of oomph off the mark.
It’s equipped with a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive grip.
Audi claims the spritely hatch can hit 100km/h from a standstill in 4.8 seconds on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.
Drivers can choose between five driving modes that will alter the vehicle’s behaviour by changing the suspension firmness, throttle response, engine sound and steering responsiveness.
Big brakes with red calipers add stopping power to match the car’s performance.
Inside there is Audi’s excellent 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster matched to a 10.1-inch central touchscreen.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, digital radio and a 15-speaker Bang and Olufsen stereo add to the experience.
Audi has kitted out the S3 with plenty of driver aids.
Auto emergency braking will apply the brakes if the car detects a potential collision with a car, pedestrian or cyclist. Lane keep assist will help keep you in your lane and gently tug the steering wheel to direct you back in if it detects you wandering across lines.
Rear cross-traffic alert will alert you if a car is approaching as you reverse out of a driveway or parking spot, helping you avoid a potential collision.
Audi buyers can choose a prepaid $2580 servicing pack that includes five years of scheduled logbook services.
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