TheAudiS3Sportbackhas been confirmed to make an appearanceat the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which starts on 5 March. The newly overhauled 2.0-litre engine delivers notable performance and the S3 Sportback weighs 70kg less than the previous model, thanks to its lightweight construction.

Audi S3 Sportback is lighter and consumes less fuel than before

Engine Capability

The Audi S3 Sportback is fitted with a 2.0-litre TFSI engine that delivers 221kW and 380Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed S tronic transmission. In S tronic guise, the Audi S3 Sportback sprints to 100km/h in 5 seconds while the manual transmission takes five-tenths of a second longer. Top speed is governed at 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.9-litres/100km with the S tronic transmission while in manual guise consumption is rated at 7.0-litres/100km. The engine therefore consumes 1.5-litres less per 100km when compared to the previous S3 Sportback.

The Audi S3 Sportback is also equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive as well as a re-designed multi-plate clutch which allows for quicker acceleration and remains stable in all conditions, including rain and snow.

Handling Features

In addition to the S sport suspension which lowers the car by 25mm, the axle-load distribution and the new progressive steering contribute to enhancing the handling dynamics of the vehicle. The Audi S3 Sportback is also fitted with 18-inch wheels which provide sufficient grip. The Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) reflects the latest-generation technology.

The Audi S3 Sportback is also fitted with Audi drive select which controls the characteristics of the electric gas pedal, shift points of the optional S tronic transmission and the steering ratio of the progressive steering. The driver pushes a button to specify whether these systems should operate in comfort, auto, dynamic or efficiency modes. The ‘individual’ mode is added on models equipped with the MMI Radio. The optional Audi magnetic ride system, which regulates the shock absorbers, is also controlled via Audi drive select.

The Audi S3 Sportback can be expected in South Africa later in 2013