We’re still waiting for the Mk8 Golf R, but the next generation of Volkswagen Group all-wheel drive turbo’d tearaways has officially arrived.
The 2021 Audi S3 hatch and sedan features the usual mix of hunkered-down looks, a 2.0-litre turbo, and all-wheel drive. It’ll be here in the second half of 2021.
Under the bonnet, the new S3 twins have a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine rated at 228kW and 400Nm – and Australia will get to enjoy the full power output, rather than a detuned version as is currently the case.
A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive are both fitted as standard.
Audi claims the sedan and Sportback are capable of completing the 0-100km/h dash in 4.8 seconds, and have an electronically-restricted top speed of 250km/h.
Compared to the regular A3, the S3 sits on a suspension setup that’s 15mm closer to the ground, and rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Externally the S3 features more aggressive bumpers at both ends, prominent rhombus patterns for the grille and vents, a large rear diffuser, and four exhaust tips.
Interior upgrades include sport seats with upholstery made primarily from recycled plastic bottles, and aluminium or carbon-style trim pieces.
A 10.25-inch digital instrumentation display, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Available options include 19-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers, a sportier suspension setup with adaptive dampers, and matrix LED headlights.
Other upgrade options include 12.3-inch virtual cockpit digital instrumentation screen, interior ambient lighting, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Deliveries of the new S3 sedan and hatch begin in October in Europe.
