Audi S3 Sportback and Audi S3 Limousine
More than twenty years ago, Audi first introduced the S3 and in doing so created a new market segment – premium compact sports cars. Today, the four rings represent the new generation of the Audi S3 Sportback and Audi S3 Limousine.
New Audi C3.
Their 2.0-litre 2.0 TFSI engine develops 228 kW (310 hp) and 400 Nm of torque. Both models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission, quattro all-wheel drive with intelligent steering and the sport suspension (optionally with damping control) that only the S models can boast, direct the engine's power straight to the road. The technology behind the new S3 models is complemented by a range of first-class solutions, including a new operating concept, infotainment and driver assistance systems.
Distinctive design and signature fixtures
The new S3 models show their dynamic character at a glance. The front of the car is dominated by the Singleframe grille, with a large diamond-shaped grille and impressive air intakes. The exterior mirror housings are painted in brushed aluminium. The strong lines of the body arms run the length of the car from the headlights to the taillights. The areas below the shoulder line are concave, a new design element from Audi that emphasizes the shape of the wheel arches. The new S3 Sportback and S3 Limousine can be equipped with Matrix LED headlights on request. Their digital daytime running lights consist of a pixel array of fifteen LED segments, ten of which form two vertical lines. A large diffuser and four tailpipes at the rear of the car underline its sporty look.
Powerful drive
Both new S3 models are equipped with a 2.0 TFSI engine with 228 kW (310 hp) and 400 Nm of torque (S3 Sportback: combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.4; CO2 emissions combined in g/ km: 170-169 S3 Limousine: combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.3-7.2, combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 166-165). The advanced technology, the Audi valvelift system (AVS), variable valve timing (AVS) changes the valve lift in response to engine load, resulting in better filling of the combustion chambers, while temperature control helps to achieve high efficiency. The Audi S3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds in both Sportback and Limousine versions and is electronically limited to 250 km/h. For a more pure-blooded sound from the powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the driver can use the Audi drive select system as standard.
The lightning-fast seven-speed S tronic with freewheel function and quattro all-wheel drive transfers power directly to the road. The hydraulic multi-plate clutch in front of the rear axle works very flexibly and distributes the torque between the front and rear axle as needed, combining dynamic performance with stability and efficiency with driving pleasure. Its operation is controlled by the Modular Dynamic Ride Control system, a new system that closely links the quattro drive with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and variable dampers available as an option.
dynamic suspension
Standard suspension with four wishbones on each wheel of the rear axle and a progressive steering system provides everything you need for a pleasant ride. Thanks to him, the entire body is lowered by 15 millimeters. Upon request, Audi also offers an S sports suspension with adjustable dampers. In this case, the valves control the oil flow in the shock absorbers in such a way as to adapt their operation to the wishes of the driver and the current driving situation within a few thousandths of a second.
The range of adjustment possibilities, from comfort to sporty dynamics, is even greater than that of the previous model. The new electric brake assist system provides powerful and spontaneous braking. All four brake discs are internally ventilated. Brake calipers are available in black as standard and optionally in red. S3 models come standard with 18" wheels, with 19" wheels available as an option.
Space concept
Compared to their predecessors, the new S3 models are larger. The Sportback is three centimeters longer, and the Limousine is four centimeters longer. Both are also three centimeters wider.
So, the length of the five-door version is now 4.34 m, and the four-door version is 4.50 m. In addition to minor differences, both versions of the body are identical in width (1.82 m), height (1.43 m) and wheelbase (2. 43 m). 64 m). There is a lot of space in the cabin, especially in width. Depending on rear seat settings, the boot capacity of the S3 Sportback is between 325 and 1,145 liters, while the boot capacity of the S3 Sedan is 370 litres.
Sports interior
The sporty flair of the new S3 models continues in the interior, with a new compact S tronic shifter and trim panels in aluminum or carbon fiber that are inspired by the headlights. The cab is driver oriented. Characteristic air vents form a single unit with the visor above the watch, emphasizing the sporty character of both models. A 10.25" digital display is offered as standard. Alternatively, you can choose the Audi virtual cockpit and its plus version. Both versions are 12.3 inches, with the latter also offering three different screen designs. The optional Decorative Lighting Plus package provides targeted lighting effects. The sports seats have been redesigned, with standard upholstery mostly made from recycled PET bottles and adorned with stylish contrast stitching.
At the center of the dashboard is a 10.1-inch touchscreen display built into a large black stylish panel. The display recognizes manually entered letters and provides audible feedback. In addition, the infotainment system is voice-operated as standard using spoken language. Audi also offers a head-up display as an option.
The next generation of infotainment systems
The MMI control system of the new S3 models is based on the third-generation infotainment platform MIB 3. Its computing power is ten times higher than that of the previous version. All connection tasks are performed at the data rate of LTE Advanced. The platform also has a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Route guidance is flexible and accurate. The navigation system offers traffic forecasts, high resolution satellite imagery from Google Earth and traffic information. Individual settings such as frequent destinations or air conditioning settings can be stored in six user profiles.
Audi connect online services include a car-to-X package that helps the driver find suitable parking spaces on the street and keep the driver informed. green wave - when communicating with a traffic light in German cities such as Dusseldorf or Ingolstadt. Connecting the new Audi S3 to the user's smartphone is possible via the myAudi app, as well as via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the Audi phone box. The latter also connects the smartphone to the car's antenna and allows inductive charging of the mobile device.
Another convenience is the Audi connect key, which allows an authorized user to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using an Android smartphone. Fans of high-end music sounds can opt for a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D audio capability.
Helpful driver assistance systems
The driver assistance systems of the new S3 models demonstrate the technical sophistication of the Audi brand. Audi pre sense front, Lane Keeping Assist and Turn Assist have accident prevention potential and are standard on both models. Other systems such as lane change warning, lane departure warning, as well as rear cross traffic alert and park assist are available as options. Adaptive cruise control assists the driver. It senses the speed and distance to the vehicle in front and helps you stay in lane by gently intervening with the steering system. Efficiency Assistant promotes economical driving style.
The opening of the collection of orders for new S3 models on the Polish market and the launch of the Polish version of the model configurator will take place this Thursday, August 13th. The first copies will arrive at dealerships in early October. The market premiere of the models is accompanied by a limited "series" in specially selected body colors: Python Yellow (Sportback) or Tango Red (Limousine) with black accents, 19-inch wheels and sports seats.
Photo: Audi