For the first time ever, the Audi A3 Sportback is available in S3 guise. The new Audi S3 Sportback has an unmistakably sporty ambience about it. It makes its mark with the customary understated distinguishing features, inside and out.

Yet the difference cannot just be seen, it can be felt too. This is particularly true of the special S sports suspension, which lowers the body by 25 mm, as well as the exclusive standard equipment and optional extras that come with the Audi S3 Sportback.

Even sportier profile

The Audi S3 Sportback can be distinguished by the pronounced, three-dimensional contour of elements like the outer air intakes and rear diffuser. The architecture and proportions are agile and compact, the vehicle is characterised by striking lines on the bumpers, roof spoiler and radiator grille. The aluminium-look exterior mirrors add an extra touch of class.

The driver and front passenger are greeted by Alcantara/leather sports seats, while Aluminium pedals, three different styles of inlay and a black or silver headlining further help to create the sporty look and the range of standard features include deluxe automatic air conditioning, an anti-theft alarm and xenon plus headlamps with LED daytime running light.

Powerful drive

Under the hood the re-engineered 2.0T FSI® engine boasts an output of 188 kW. And with 350 Nm of torque available constantly from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm, the direct-injection, two-litre turbo catapults the S3 Sportback from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 6.0 seconds, while the top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h. Yet the Audi S3 Sportback’s fuel consumption is astonishingly low, at an average of 8.5 litres per 100 km.

A six-speed manual transmission handles the business of getting the power from the engine to the standard quattro® driveline; while 18-inch wheels provide a firm grip on the road. The sport suspension holds the body 25 millimetres lower and integrates lightweight aluminium components. Black brake callipers act on 17-inch disk brakes.

The S3 Sportback offers the reflexes of a top athlete. It reacts spontaneously to steering movements and its handling remains stable, precise and almost neutral right up to its physical limits.