Audi has revealed the latest model in the S-Series, with the S3 Saloon becoming the third vehicle in the manufacturer’s most recent quartet – preceding the release of the S3 Cabriolet.
The Saloon comes with a 2.0 TFSI engine with turbocharging and direct injection, helping the car to achieve a top speed of 155mph, reaching 62mph in just 4.9 seconds.
In the latest pictures from Audi, the S3 is shown in a sporty red paint-job, with an extended front grille, lower bumper air intakes and glowering headlights.
Under the bonnet, the car can achieve 5,500 rpm at peak power and the four-cylinder engine is able the push it as far as possible when it comes to output and economy.
The engine features new technologies, such as the use of both direct and indirect injection, as well as the integration of the exhaust manifold into the cylinder head and the use of innovative thermal management for faster warm-up.
Hopefully all that tech-jargon hasn’t lost a lot of people…
It goes fast and it makes a really great engine sound – if that helps?
The weight in the engine has been limited where at all possible, with the technology stepping off the scales with a total weight of 148 kg. This means it is five kilograms less than any previous engine design.
Body weight has been limited too, at only 1,430 kg – which is much less than other models in its sector. Light aluminium has been used on the bonnet, wings and front suspension subframe, but it still remains remarkably strong. That’s thanks to the ultra-high-strength steel passenger cell, which will make sure the driver and others inside remain safe.
The axle has been pushed forward by 52 millimetres in comparison to the previous model, which helps to increase distribution to promote impressive handling balance.
It also helps to increase the space inside, for both the passenger and to include more room for luggage.
The 35mm longer A3 Sportback wheelbase helps to give the passengers more legroom, while the boot is able to carry 390 litres of volume with the seats still up. This can be further increased by folding down the split in the rear back seats – perfect to load even more Christmas presents in the car!
As well as having a stunning, typical-Audi interior, the quality also spills into the inside of the car, with instrument dials in grey with needles in white, mimicking classic S quattro stylings. It also features a 5.8-inch power-retractable on-board colour monitor with a special welcome screen to welcome the S3 driver.
It is also available with fine Nappa leather-upholstered sports seats with integrated head restraints. Usable tech also come in the form of dual-zone electronic climate control, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, DAB digital radio, a Bluetooth phone interface and satellite navigation.
Passengers will also benefit from 4G/LTE to allow the Audi to connect to the world wide web. From the inside of the car, drivers can access traffic information and stream web radio, while those in the passenger seats can use their favourite social media sites on the go.
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