Sharper suit for Audi's updated S3, available in both sedan and Sportback guise.

The signature Audi compact family performance car range gains all the styling and design drama you would expect from an S3.

In terms of size, the new S3 Sportback and sedan variants are longer than before, by 30- and 40mm – respectively. Balancing the increase in bumper-to-bumper length, is 30mm increase in width, rendering both the Sportback and sedan with some rather tidy proportions. These new S3s also ride 15mm lower than Audi’s conventional A3 models

Distinguishing these S3 models from other fourth-generation A3s are larger front air intakes, a diamond pattern grille and aluminium lookalike wing mirror end caps. At the rear Audi’s designers have integrated a functional diffuser, which is framed by twin exhaust ends at each corner.

Inside the S3 design theme is underscored by additional aluminium and carbon-fibre trim inserts. Practicality has always been an S3 attribute and the latest Sportback version carries 325-litre of luggage, whilst the sedan can accommodate 370-litres in its boot.

Powering the fourth-generation S3 range is Audi’s 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It produces 228 kW and 400 Nm and of course, those outputs are channelled to all four wheels, via a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission.

With the benefit of Quattro traction and the S Tronic’s rapid electromechanical shifting interface, both the four- and five-door S3s can run a benchmark 0-100kph sprint in a claimed 4.8 seconds. Top speed buffers against the mandated 250kph limiter.

Deceleration should be marginally better than before, thanks to Audi’s electric brake booster function being onboard. S3 drivers who desire a superior balance between ride comfort and dynamic ability, can add adaptive damping.

Audi will also offer new S3 customers the option of two limited edition colours: Python Yellow or Tango Red. Standard wheels size to 18-inches, whilst there is also a 19-inch rim upgrade available.

Audi South Africa has confirmed the new Audi A3 range is due for local market introduction around the 2nd quarter of 2021, and we expect these performance versions to follow.

Further Reading

Audi Reveals All-New A3 Sedan

Audi A3 Sportback: Old vs New

Audi A3 Sportback (2020) International Launch Review

2021 Audi A3: SA Details Emerge

Audi's '310-kW' RS3 almost ready