Audi has revealed details of its third-generation Audi S3, due to launch in 2013.
As with the regular A3 model, the S3 uses Volkswagen Group’s MQB (Modulare Querbaukasten) platform, which helps it to undercut the outgoing S3 by an impressive 60 kg. Providing the grunt is Audi’s long-stroke 2.0 TFSI which develops 221 kW (300 hp) of power and 380 Nm of torque, with power transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a manual six-speed transmission or optional six-speed S tronic allowing changes using the short selector lever or flappy paddles.
The sprint to 100 km/h takes 5.1 seconds the S tronic-equipped car (manual: 5.4 s), while top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Average fuel consumption for the manual is 6.9 litres every 100 kilometres (manual: 6.9 l/100 km) The S3 with S tronic consumes on average just 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (manual: 7.0 litres) with CO2 emissions of 159 (162) g/km. Impressively, models with the manual ‘box enjoy an improvement of 1.5 litres compared to their predecessor.
Visually, the S3 is a real wolf in sheep’s clothing, wearing xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, an S-specific grille with aluminum-look frame and matt platinum grey insert, aluminum-look grille bars, bumper ribs and mirror casings and side skirts. Moving towards the rear, there’s a larger roof spoiler and platinum grey diffuser which accommodates the four oval tailpipes. Five-spoke 7.5 x 18 alloy wheels, wrapped in 225/40 tyres, complete the exterior.
Moving inside, the cabin features S sill plates, automatic air conditioning, matt brushed aluminium inlays, seats trimmed in either Pearl Nappa leather/cloth, perforated Alcantara/Pearl Nappa leather or Velvet leather/Fine Nappa leather. The items shown are the optional diamond quilted S sport seats with integrated head rests.
Due to arrive in dealerships early next year, prices in Germany will start at €38,900.
[Source: Audi]