The Audi S3 Sportback is something of a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a real Q car if ever there was one and it packs a real punch as I discovered recently on a test drive in England.
Powering this engaging small Audi is a very potent two litre turbocharged TFSI engine with an output of 265bhp and its maximum torque of 350 Nm) is constantly available from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm.
This engine has been intensively developed, the turbo, with its upsized turbine and compressor turbine wheel, builds up a relative charge pressure of up to 1.2 bars. A re-engineered charge air cooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air and thereby increases the air mass required for combustion.
Pistons with reinforced pins operate within this, the most powerful TFSI engine; reinforced, newly mounted connecting rods transmit the forces onto the crankshaft. The cylinder block has been stiffened, with its head being cast from a new, high-temperature alloy. The exhaust camshaft timing has been adapted to the increased output, whilst the high-pressure injectors have been provided with increased cross-sections. With all of its concentrated technology, the high-performance, turbocharged engine is a light weight and weighs just 152 kg, less than comparable engines from its competitors.
This eager performing engine is allied to the S tronic transmission and of course the S3 Sportback further benefits from four wheel drive. I must add that S tronic is an option costing £1,400 plus.
Performance wise and the S3 Sportback can rocket you from standstill to 62mph in a mere 5.8 seconds and it is possible to achieve 27mpg from a gallon of petrol; I managed just over 24mpg on my test run. In the handling department this Audi excels; I must confess I had expected a bumpy and harsh ride, not so, comfort levels are excellent.
The A3's already superb chassis has been further refined in the S3 Sportback. Aluminum swivel bearings and wishbones reduce the unsprung masses to attain even greater dynamics. Stiffer chassis bearings and the electromechanical steering's sportier characteristic curve increase precision.
Setting the S3 Sportback apart from its stablemates are 18 inch alloy wheels shod with and 225/40 tyres and a 17-inch brake system with sports brake pads ensures reliable deceleration; the black calipers at the front bear S3 emblems.
The styling of the new S3 Sportback has not been overdone, a range of sharp lines, on the roof spoiler and the side sills. The radiator grille is fitted with chrome-plated, vertical double bars, the bumper with a powerful spoiler lip. Chrome rings border the fog lamps. A platinum gray diffuser and two large, oval exhaust tailpipes sharpen up the rear end.
Moving to the interior and sports seats with cloth and leather covers greet you and the race-style steering wheel further adds to the character of this car. You sink into the two tone Silk Nappa leather upholstery which not only is sporty looking, but smacks of quality.
My test car, in addition to S tronic already noted, had a number of options, including Satellite Navigation System Plus, Bose premium sound system etc. Of course you do not need to load with such an array of options.
A very impressive offering from Audi and one which delivers a most rewarding drive experience.
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