The all-new Audi S3 has arrived in Ireland with prices starting at €45,260. The new model manages to be both bigger and lighter than its predecessor, as Audi strives to maintain a good balance between power and economy.
Exterior
Buyers can choose from a pallet of 14 colours for their S3. The front grille and rear diffuser both feature red accents, while the aluminium-look door mirrors and chrome-tipped quad exhausts add a bit of sparkle. LED lighting features front and rear while a roof spoiler reduces lift at the back. The standard-issue 18-inch alloys feature a design exclusive to the S3.
Interior
Greeting you when you open the door is a sea of black leather - and 'S' badges appear everywhere. Standard-fit seats feature pull-out cushions, while diamond-quilted sports seats can be had as optional extras. Dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, Audi Drive Select and MMI navigation with MMI touch all appear in the standard equipment list. The infotainment system also features Audi's 'Phone Box' that boosts signal, while a Bang & Olufsen stereo system fills the car with high-quality sounds. Options include a panoramic sunroof and adaptive lighting.
Mechanicals
Under the bonnet is a redesigned and lighter version of the 2.0-litre TFSI engine found in the previous S3, connected to Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. Power is rated at 300hp, and peak torque comes in at 380Nm. Thanks to its lightweight construction, the S3 gets from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds and onto a limited top speed of 250km/h while returning an impressive 40.9mpg. A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard, while the optional S-tronic transmission improves both economy and acceleration.
Park Assist is fitted to the S3 as standard, while Audi pre-sense, side-assist, active lane assist and traffic sign recognition systems are optional extras that question the need for a driver altogether.
Anything else?
The €45,260 entry-level price gets you into an Audi S3 with the six-speed manual gearbox, with the S-tronic version demanding a slightly larger cheque. Order books are open now.