tuning and sweet flavors of the RS3!

Audi has just lifted the curtain on a facelifted version of its S3, a few weeks after presenting a facelifted version of its A3. So the stylistic evolution is not surprising, however we can notice some interesting new features in the mechanical department, especially gaining power as well as the integration of a torque distribution system, like its older sister RS3 . The Audi S3 will be available from the second quarter of this year, with a base price of 63,000 euros for the Sportback version and 63,565 euros for the sedan.

The improvement of the Audi A3 range continues. After updating the most sensible versions of the German compact, it is now the turn of the “small” sports car to be updated, before the brand tackles the best segment, the RS3. The central variant is therefore entitled to a facelift, lighter on the outside, more pronounced on the inside and deeper as far as the mechanical part is concerned.

Visually, we knew roughly what to expect with this remake. The facelifted S3 incorporates the styling cues we spotted on the facelifted A3. So there is no distortion, even if the lines are refined, especially at the level of the Single Frame Grill. The designs are also revised, while the front shield widens and the air intakes are redesigned. The rear shows the familiar diffuser, which includes two exhaust outlets. Overall more powerful, the revised S3 remains faithful to the design we knew. As is customary at Audi, this new look is accompanied by new configurable light signatures.

RS3 genes are more visible than ever

The interior has also been the subject of design work, as even if the layout remains the same, some things are new. This is for example the case of a gearbox lever, better integrated in the central console. Audi has also redesigned the air vents and door panels. Standard equipment for this S3 includes ambient LED lighting, which extends from the dashboard to the pedals, but also on the door panels.

But it’s really on the technical level where this revised Audi S3 excels. Under the hood, we find the TFSI 4-cylinder 2.0 which generates 23 horsepower, for a total of 333, while the torque increases to 420 Nm. Performance is therefore logically improved, with 0 to 100 km/h dropping in 4.7 seconds. The top speed is still electronically limited to 250 km / h. The engine is linked to a 7-speed S Tronic gearbox. This has also been improved, just like the turbo and clutch system, to improve acceleration response.

In addition to these improvements, the Audi S3 now has a torque distribution system, borrowed from the RS3. Thanks to this device, the driver can choose to send more or less torque to the rear, but the system can also act freely and favor the rear wheel out of turn, causing oversteer. This torque converter works differently depending on the selected driving mode (Auto, Comfort, Power, Individual, Efficiency, Dynamic Plus).

Audi announces the arrival of this facelifted S3 in the dealership in the second quarter of 2024. Prices have already been confirmed. It will cost 63,000 euros for the S3 Sportback, compared to 63,565 euros for the sedan.