2021 Audi S3 Sportback And S3 Sedan Debut With 306 HP, 0-62 MPH In 4.8 Seconds

Audi Sport has unveiled the new generation S3 in Sportback (hatchback) and Sedan body styles, which will act as the range-topping members of the lineup until the RS3 breaks cover.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine sits at the heart of the two models, developing 306 HP (310 PS / 228 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. The TFSI unit is paired to a seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system, a setup that allows the cars to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.8 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

The standard suspension features a four-link rear axle and progressive steering, dropping the body by 0.6 inches (15 mm) over the standard A3. However, the S sport suspension with damper control can be installed on request, enhancing both comfort and dynamism. Stopping power is provided by the new electric brake booster and four ventilated brake discs.

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Dominating the front end is the Singleframe grille with large rhombus pattern, three air intakes between the bumper and hood, as well as generous openings beneath the headlamps. The back end sports a four-fin diffuser with cutouts for the quad exhaust pipes and darkened taillights. There are also new side skirts, blacked out emblems and standard 18-inch or optional 19-inch wheels that accentuate the sporty looks of the new S3 Sportback and S3 Sedan.

The driver-oriented cockpit is defined by the newly developed sports seats, aluminum or carbon inlays, and flat-bottomed steering wheel. The infotainment system and digital gauges can be supplemented by the head-up display, which is an optional extra, alongside the ambient lighting package and more. Audi connect key, which lets drivers lock and unlock the doors and start the engine by using the Android smartphones, and Bang & Olufsen premium sound system are also available.

A host of safety systems are on deck, including lane departure warning, pre-sense front and swerve assist with turn assist, with the lane change and exit warnings, cross-traffic and park assist systems being optional.

Pre-sales will commence this month in Europe, and the first cars will arrive at dealers in early October. In Germany, pricing will start at €46,302.53 (equal to $54,475) for the new S3 Sportback and €47,179.83 ($55,505) for the S3 Sedan. An Edition One model will be available for a limited time, in Python Yellow for the Sportback and Tango Red for the Sedan, with 19-inch wheels, black accents and fine Nappa leather upholstery. In the UK, the hot hatch starts at £37,900 ($49,525) and the sporty saloon at £38,465 ($50,265).