► Audi’s punchy S3 returns
► 306bhp, all-wheel drive
► Available as a hatch or saloon
The hot hatch (and saloon) from Ingolstadt returns: this is the latest Audi S3. It’s been revealed ahead of the next Volkswagen Golf R, with the first ones arriving in October 2020.
We drive an Audi S3 prototype
What’s underneath the angular bodywork?
A predictable powertrain: a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo making 306bhp and 295lb ft, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto with power going to all four wheels. Audi says both the Sportback hatch and saloon are capable of 4.8sec sprints to 62mph and limited top speeds of 155mph.
Standard sport suspension drops the ride height by 15mm compared to a regular A3, with adaptive dampers as an option. You get 18-inch wheels as standard, 19s as an option.
Anything different inside?
Newly-developed sports seats that use recycled plastic bottles in its construction, a 10.25-inch driver display that can be upgraded to 12.3-inches if you go for Virtual Cockpit Plus, and a 10.1-inch central infotainment display. That’s kind of it.
When and how much for?
Audi says the first models will arrive at dealers in October 2020, with German prices starting at €46,300 and €47,200 for the Sportback hatch and saloon respectively, so expect a UK price tag of around £40,000 and £42,000.
Those at the front of the queue get first dibs on the Edition One version, loaded with kit and finished in Python Yellow or Tango Red for the Sportback and saloon respectively.
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