Audi-cious

The S3 redefines the standards of its class at the level of a sports car - it races from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.7 seconds, and its forward urge remains unbridled until it reaches 250 km/h. Aggressively hard-hitting, free-revving and with a sonorous acoustic profile, the powerful 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder unit with FSI petrol direct injection proves to be a smooth, high performance engine.

This power is transmitted by the six-speed gearbox and quattro permanent four-wheel drive to the large alloy wheels. The power plant of the S3 delivers all that is expected of a powerful sports engine, and does so supremely well -the 2.0 TFSI, developed by Audi AG, combines direct injection and turbocharger technology that delivers 265bhp at 6,000 rpm. And at just 2,500 rpm, it already musters up an impressive 350 Nm of torque – this pulling power remains constant up to 5,000 rpm. In the combined driving cycle, the 2.0 TFSI displays another welcoming trait, consuming just 9.1 litres of petrol over 100 km - proving the forward-looking efficiency of TFSI technology developed by Audi.

The new turbocharger with its enlarged turbine and compressor rotor generates 1.2 bar of boost pressure – an unusually high figure. A modified intercooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air, thus increasing the air mass that is necessary for combustion. The new high-performance TFSI engine features pistons with stronger pins, while strengthened connecting rods with new bearings transmit the powerful forces to the crankshaft. The cylinder block has been reinforced, and the head is made of a new, highly heat-resistant alloy. Its exhaust camshaft timing has also been adjusted to accommodate the increased power output.

To go with its sporty nature and firm handling, the new Audi S3 has a six-speed, close-ratio manual gearbox. Gearshift travel has been reduced for the S3, permitting even sportier and more precise gear changes. As is the case for all Audi S models, the new S3 drives all four wheels by means of quattro permanent four-wheel drive. All the drivetrain components have been strengthened to cope with the high level of engine torque.

The Audi S3 2.0 TFSI quattro manual retails at S$166,700 inclusive of COE. The 5-door S3 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro, however, will only arrive in Singapore next year. This version will come with both manual and S-tronic options.

Credits: Story by Azfar Hashim, pictures courtesy of Audi Singapore