Audi S3 : a prestige compact car
A sporty model that sets the bar even higher than that of its predecessor.
The new Audi S3 is due to arrive in December. A very sporty model that sets the bar even higher than that of its predecessor.
From the very first glance, one sees that this 3-door model hides none of its dynamism nor its resulting potential. The front bumper is fitted with a spoiler with large air in-takes, the side sills have been redesigned and the single-frame grille has a chrome trim. Add to this two oval chrome tailpipes incorporated into the rear skirt (typical of “S” models), aluminium-look door mirrors and a body-colour roof spoiler, and you already have a good grasp of the overall design. Audi proposes only three standard colours for the paintwork (Ibis White, Brilliant Red and Brilliant Black), though eight more are available as options (Metallic Silver, Metallic Dolphin Grey, Pearly Phantom Black, Imola Yellow, Magma Orange…). The last is exclusively reserved for the new S3. The S3’s sporty personality is echoed inside where the quality of the materials are on a par with the painstaking craftsmanship. Sports seats (of course !) with prominent padding for the back and thighs (upholstered in fabric/leather, Alcantara/leather or all-leather), a black or silver sky roof panel, an instrument cluster with dials and needles characteristic of all “S” models, and the red and silver “S3” emblem on the leather sports steering wheel. The monogram is also to be found on the gear lever knob and door sill trims, and appears on the screen of the optional radio Plus navigation system. The new Audi S3 has a longer wheelbase, providing extra space in the passenger compartment. Passengers at the rear benefit from an additional 29 mm in knee-room, 23 mm for the shoulders and 42 mm in front. The boot with its two practical hooks easily accommodates bulky objects. The 265 hp engine, the new high-performance TSFI, only weighs 152 kilos, which has a positive effect on axle load distribution. Just like all “S” models, the S3 has integral transmission quattro permanent 4-wheel drive and, in terms of handling, demonstrates qualities essential to a high-performance sports car. Its braking system is one of its many assets : the four large disc brakes with internal ventilation guarantee safety and efficiency. As standard features, one finds braking assistance and ESP dynamic stabilization control. For passive security, six airbags (frontal, lateral incorporated into the seats, and Sideguard for the head between the fore and rear uprights), front seats whose design has been studied to support the upper part of the body and reduce shocks to the head in the event of a rear collision, and a tension limiter on the safety belt. Ultra-modern communication options include a universal interface for cell phones, another for i-Pods, three last-generation radios, a Bose sound system with a 6-channel amplifier and 8 high-performance loudspeakers. Sophisticated, top-notch features in every field.
By Cécile Olivéro - photos : press
