Audi is using the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show early next month (March 4th-5th) as the platform to unveil its latest vehicle – its first ever convertible ‘S’ model.
The 300PS S3 Cabriolet has been described by the manufacturer as “an exhilaratingly fresh approach to open-air motoring”. The soft-top roof is powered by an electrohydraulic drive and uses magnesium, aluminium and high-strength steel to keep the weight as low as possible. It can be opened or closed in 18 seconds – a time achievable when travelling up to 31 mph.
It is also delivered with insulating foam, so that noise levels are kept to a minimum and warmth is still possible on less than sunny days.
Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre TFSI engine, delivering 300PS – as the name suggests – and between 5,500 and 6,200 rpm. Torque of up to 380 Nm can be achieved between 1,800 and 5,500 rpm.
This means the four-seater car can hit an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, while 0-62 mph acceleration can be accomplished in just 5.4 seconds.
The Audi S3 Cabriolet with S tronic can deliver 39.8 mpg combined, equating to just 165g/km of CO2 emissions.
Of course, it wouldn’t be an ‘S’ model without being equipped with quattro technology. This allows for permanent all-wheel drive, giving expert handling and traction regardless of the weather conditions or quality of the road.
Audi is the only manufacturer to offer permanent all-wheel drive in the premium compact segment. This strength provides extreme grip on the road when exiting a corner, something that a standard two-wheel drive model would struggle to achieve.
The inside continues the classy persona, adorned completely in black and providing a clean, stylish and elegant appearance.
However, just because it’s a soft-top and is obviously a high-performance model, that doesn’t mean it can’t be practical too.
In fact, it boasts 285-litres of luggage capacity in the boot, which can be further expanded by folding down the rear seats.
It comes with S sports seats that help to support the drivers body, while they are finished in Fine Nappa leather complete with S embossing and contrasting stitching.
Drivers can also select the Parade red design package, complete with shoulder sections and door trim inserts with the colour signature.
This also provides a special colour pigment which prevents the leather getting too hot when out in the sun.
It is delivered with a leather multi-function sport steering wheel with a flat-bottomed rim and shift paddles, as well as other standard features including brushed stainless steel pedals and aluminium door sills with the S3 logo.
Heated front seats are an additional feature, as well as Xenon plus headlights. However, drivers could select LED headlights as an alternative option.
A 13-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system also allows drivers to make some noise as they drive with the top down.
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