Early in 2020 Audi released engine info on its upcoming S3 models (a story which we covered here). Today the Germans pulled the covers of the Audi S3 Sportback and Sedan. You can read about the regular Audi A3 sedan at this link. Good news for anyone keen to buy an S3 is that Audi South Africa is planning to introduce the car into the local market in Q3 of 2021.

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Turbo and quattro

Audi has kept the VW Group’s 2,0-litre turbocharged inline-four for use in the S3. Peak power is rated at 228 kW with maximum torque of 400 N.m. (Read our review of the similarly powered Golf R by clicking here). The engine is mated with a seven-speed S-tronic (or DSG) transmission that feeds a quattro all-wheel-drive system. A multi-plate clutch moves torque between the front and the rear axles as required. Audi says that both S3 body types can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,8 seconds. An electronically controlled top speed of 250 km/h is also achievable.

Check out the world’s first Audi RS2JZ at this link.

Beefier looks

Audi S3 models are the intermediate performance versions of the A3 range, until the full-fat RS3s arrive. These two sporting derivatives are stylistically differentiated from their less powerful siblings. Bespoke touches that earmark the S3 twins are Audi’s signature Singleframe grille with rhombus-pattern, larger air inlets on the front bumper, aluminium finish mirror caps and beefier wheel arches. Viewed from behind, a diffuser insert and quad exhaust outlets give the game away. Audi S3 models come standard with 18-inch alloys as standard and a ride height that is 15 mm lower than an A3.

Upgraded interior

The model-specific touches continue into the cabin. Audi has adopted a new, stubby shifter for the standard dual-clutch transmission. Aluminium or carbon inlays are applied to the console and facia. Audi’s 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster is standard fitment. New, figure-hugging sport seats are covered in material that is made from recycled PET bottles. In the middle of the dashboard is a 10,1-inch touchscreen that is the infotainment interface; the system also offers voice-control.