It was only yesterday when we talked about Audi’s new A3 Sportback and today the Ingolstadt-based automaker has revealed the updated S3. Both cars will be shown next week when the Paris Motor Show starts. The S3 is scheduled to hit the market in Europe in early 2013, with prices starting in Germany from 38,900 Euros.
The biggest change compared to the previous model would have to be the all-new direct-injection, turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline engine which is 11 pounds lighter than the previous power unit and also more powerful. It is rated at 296 hp and 380 Nm, making it 35 hp and 30 Nm stronger than what is under the hood of the outgoing version.
All that power is sent to the four wheels through a standard 6-speed manual and the company’s quattro permanent AWD system. For more money, clients can get the 2013 S3 with the optional S tronic dual clutch transmission that allows the vehicle to do the 0-62 mph sprint in 5.1 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than with the manual gearbox.
As far as the fuel economy is concerned, the 2013 Audi S3 fitted with the aforementioned S Tronic is capable of returning 34.1 mpg US (6.9 liters / 100 km) or 33.6 mpg US (7.0 / liters) when equipped with the manual. It weighs 1,395 kg so it is 60 kg lighter than the old S3.
There isn’t a lot to report when it comes down to the styling of the car as it looks a lot like the regular A3 that has the optional S Line package. It is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40-series tires, a new look for the front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper with a diffuser and also the quad tailpipes. Inside there’s a flat-bottomed steering wheel, sport seats, gray instrument dials and several S logos spread around.
Source: WorldCarFans
