The all new Audi S3 Hatch back is here, it is scheduled to launch in early 2013, the lightweight premium compact model combines its dynamic performance with groundbreaking efficiency and comes packed with all the high-tech features Audi has to offer in every field of technology.
Powertrains-
The A3 Sportback will be available with a number of turbocharged four-cylinders burning gas or diesel:
1. Gasoline engines include a 105-hp, 1.2-liter unit.
2. A 1.4-liter in strengths of 122 hp and 140 hp
3. And a 180-hp,1.8-liter. Some time after the Sportback’s launch, there will be a 2.0-liter making roughly 220 hp, as well as an S3 utilizing another turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder cranking out close to 300 hp.
Diesel choices consist of:
1. A 105-hp, 1.6-liter TDI.
2. And the 2.0-liter TDI available in 150-hp and 184-hp.
A 110-hp natural gas–powered version will follow next year, and 2014 will see a plug-in hybrid added to the lineup.
The Audi S3 delivers impressive performance, It zooms from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.1 seconds when equipped with the S tronic (5.4 seconds with the manual transmission). The electronically limited top speed remains at 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
The S3 with S tronic consumes on average just 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (manual: 7.0 liters) 34.09 MPG and 33.60 mpg respectively. This corresponds to CO2 emissions at 159 (162) grams per kilometer (255.89 and 260.17 g/mile) and for models equipped with the manual transmission, an improvement of 1.5 liters compared with the previous version.
For the chassis, there are MacPherson struts, up front, a four-link setup in the rear, stabilizer bars at both ends, electric power steering, and a 25-millimeter lower ride height than the regular A3. An Audi drive select feature, which comes standard on the S3, lets you choose number of the settings such as the throttle response, power steering assistance, shift points for the S tronic dual-clutch, and available magnetic dampers.
Exteriors-
The Audi S3 sports the S-specific single-frame grille as a symbol of uncompromised sportiness. The frame has an aluminum-look finish, and the insert is matt platinum gray. The horizontal double bars also shine in an aluminum-look finish. The newly designed bumper features aluminum look double ribs integrated into the lateral air inlets. Clearly marked edges frame the large air inlets with the high-gloss black honeycomb inserts. Additional implied air openings are found towards the wheels.
When viewed from the side, the aluminum look exterior mirrors and the pronounced side sills are damn attractive. The rear bumper has also been redesigned, the platinum gray diffuser houses the exhaust system’s four oval tailpipes, which sport chrome tips. A large roof spoiler generates downforce on the rear axle.
S badges adorn the rear and the single-frame grille. There are 14 colors that are available for the Audi S3, which have the exclusive crystal-effect finishes, like Panther Black and Estoril Blue. A set of 18-inch alloy wheels are standard and house vented steel brake discs, the parking brakes are electronic, and the black brake calipers are engravedwith S3 logos.
Audi adds xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights as standard. The flat rear lights, into which the adaptive brake light is integrated, are also fitted with light-emitting diodes. The xenon-based Audi adaptive light links into curves. It is also linked to the navigation system and can be upgraded with special lighting functions of Urban, Interurban and Highway driving, as well as for Intersections and Tourist attractions. A first time in the premium compact class are the optional LED headlights, which previously have only been available in full-size models. The low beams are generated in two free-form reflectors with a total of nine high-performance LED chips. Ten high-performance LEDs in the matt aluminum trim provide the high beams. Depending on the features chosen, the high beams are switched on automatically and LED cornering lights illuminate tight corners, and also the all-weather lights enhance safety in fog or snow.
Total weight of the vehicle comes in at 3,075 pounds, which is around 132 pounds less than the outgoing model. Thanks to more aluminum used in its construction than the previous car. Overall dimensions are a length of 14 feet, a width of 5.8 feet, a height of 4.7 feet and a wheelbase stretching 8.5 feet.
Interiors-
There is an instrument panel which appears to float on the center console, there are large and round air vents, the elegant control panel for the air conditioning and the decorative inlays are in matt brushed aluminum or a black 3D look provide exquisite accents. Luggage capacity is 365 liters (12.89 cu ft), which can be increased to 1,100 liters (38.85 cu ft) by folding down the rear seats. The sport seats come with the pull-out seat cushions, which are totally a new development from Audi. The seat coverings are one of three variants: In the first, the large side bolsters are covered in Pearl Nappa leather while the seat center sections are covered in cloth. The second is a combination of perforated Alcantara and Pearl Nappa leather. The third variant is a mix of Velvet leather with Fine Nappa leather. Audi also offers optional S sport seats with integrated head restraints and diamond quilting.
Infotainment-
The Audi Phone Box connects cell phones to the vehicle in a convenient way, and the sound system from Bang & Olufsen offers pure hi-fi enjoyment. The available Audi Connect internet connectivity setup allows operation of up to eight devices and powers Google Earth navigation, Facebook, and Twitter, all of which are integrated within the infotainment system. Such features are accessed via a 5.8- or 7.0-inch central monitor that rises from the dashboard. A touch-sensitive pad has been placed on top of the knob that controls Audi’s MMI-this will allow users to write letters and numbers with a fingertip to input, say, destinations.
Other features-
The assistance systems in the Audi S3 comes directly from the full-size class. The range begins with adaptive cruise control, which when combined with the safety system Audi pre sense’s the front, brings the car to a stop autonomously from speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), and continues through Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist and camera-based traffic sign recognition to the park assist system. There are also a number of sporty and convenient options, including adaptive light (also with variable headlight range control), the convenience key and the panoramic glass roof.
This model from Audi wont be available to the U.S customers, the new Audi S3 will make its official debut next week at the 2012 Paris Auto Show alongside a new A3 Sportback, another model that again U.S. won’t be getting. But it is believed that instead, of these models, U.S will get a new A3 Sedan sometime soon. Both vehicles hit the European market early in 2013. The Price of this new Audi S3 falls around, for the German markets starting at €38,900 ($50,699 USD).
