Audi S3 (2014)

The dynamic performance of the new Audi S3 becomes visible in the design of the exterior. The low engine hood, the characteristic tornado line beneath the windows and the strongly sloping C-pillars extend the body visually. It is 4,254 millimeters (167.48 in) long, 1,777 millimeters (69.96 in) wide and 1,401 millimeters (55.16 in) high.

The new Audi S3 features the single-frame radiator grille; its frame is chrome, the insert is kept in matte Platinum Gray, while the horizontal dual crossbars have a shiny aluminum look. The redesigned bumper has integrated air inlets with aluminum-look double ribs. There are faux air intakes on the sides.

As an alternative to the standard Xenon plus headlights Audi supplies LED headlights; previously available for high-end vehicles only, this technology is now being offered in the premium compact segment. The LED headlights give the top model in the series an unmistakable look and improve its lighting yet again.

Aluminum-look exterior mirror housings and special sill strips accentuate the side view of the new Audi S3. The rear bumper has been redesigned. The Platinum Gray diffuser with an aluminum-look double bar houses the exhaust system's four oval tailpipes, which sport chrome tips. Painted in the color of the car the S3 roof spoiler with side aerodynamics inserts visually lengthens the roof. The rear lights feature LED technology.

Kept totally in black, the interior takes up the sporty look of the exterior. The faces of the instruments are gray, the needles white. The dial of the rev counter has a charge pressure indicator. The colored driver information system is standard; the power-retractable 11-millmeter (0.43 in) on-board monitor (standard with the MMI radio and above) powers up to display a special S3 screen when the ignition is turned.

The optional leather multifunction sport steering wheel has been redesigned with the flat-bottomed rim. In models equipped with S tronic, it also has aluminum-look shift paddles. The pedals and footrest are made of brushed aluminum. As an alternative to the standard sport seats there are S seats with integrated head restraints and diamond quilting. The decorative trim is available in matte brushed aluminum or in black.

Above and beyond the standard fittings there are lots of attractive options available for the new S3. These include the infotainment system, with the MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch topping the range. Via a UMTS module its optional extension Audi connect delivers customized Internet services from the brand to the car. On request Audi equips the new S3 with all the driver assistance systems available for the series.

The new Audi S3 will arrive at dealerships in early 2013. The basic price in Germany is 38,900 euros.

Engine

Fascinating dynamics and astonishing efficiency - the new Audi S3 goes straight tro the top of its class. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes just 4.8 seconds when equipped with the optional six-speed S tronic (5.2 seconds with the manual transmission); Its electronically governed top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The new S3 with S tronic consumes on average just 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (34.09 US mpg), a CO2 emission of 159 grams per kilometer (255.89 g/mile) (7.0 liters per 100 km [33.60 US mpg], 162 grams per kilometer [260.71 g/mile]). Compared to the previous model with manual gear shift the consumption has fallen 1.5 liters per 100 km (156.81 US mpg). That equates to CO2 emissions of 35 grams per kilometer (56.33 g/mile).

The 2.0 TFSI marks another milestone in the downsizing strategy of Audi. Redesigned from scratch, the only thing it has in common with its predecessor, which was voted "International Engine of the Year" five times in a row, is the displacement of 1,984 cc (bore x stroke 82.5 x 92.8 millimeters, [3.25 x 3.65 in]). The four-cylinder engine is compactly built and weighs just 148 kilograms (326.28 lb), a good five kilograms (11.02 lb) less than its predecessor. At 5,500 rpm there is nominal output of 221 kW (300 hp), at 6,800 revolutions the rev limiter kicks in. From 1,800 to 5,500 rpm it delivers 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque.

As a genuine sports engine, the 2.0 TFSI responds spontaneously to commands from the gas pedal. Its sonorous sound becomes particularly intensive when the standard Audi drive select is working in dynamic mode. In this case the engine responds more directly to commands from the gas pedal; with the S tronic gear change the twin clutch reacts in a flash. In the event of greater loads and revolutions per minute the two sound flaps in the exhaust system open, producing an even richer sound. Two balance shafts, which rotate in opposite directions from one another at twice the revolving crankshaft speed, ensure highly efficient mechanical functioning.

Lots of details underscore the high-performance character of the new four-cylinder engine. Modified aluminum pistons and high-strength, re-pivoted piston-rods transfer the forces. The gray cast iron crankcase has been reinforced at the main bearing seats and at the main bearing cover. The cylinder head is made of a new, particularly lightweight aluminum-silicon alloy characterized by high strength and temperature resistance.

The large turbocharger, another newly developed product, is designed for exhaust gas temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Celsius. With a maximum charge pressure of 1.2 bar it concentrates 1,000 kilograms (2204.62 lb), in other words 850,000 liters (30,017.47 cu ft) of air per hour. An efficient air-air-charge air cooler considerably lowers the temperature of the compressed air, thereby increasing the mass available on combustion, and thus the oxygen content. The electronically-controlled waste gate works extremely quickly and precisely; it reduces the charge cycle work, as under partial load it lowers the basic charge pressure and thus the exhaust gas pressure.

Dual injection: Fit for the future

In many areas of engineering the 2.0 TFSI delivers pioneering solutions from the Audi efficiency module. One of these is additional indirect injection, which complements the FSI direct fuel injection. It reduces consumption and particle emission - the four-cylinder already adheres to the limits, which in the second level of the Euro-6 norm will apply from 2017. The FSI injection, which works at pressures up to 200 bar, is used when starting and at higher greater loads: each of the enlarged injection valves has six holes.

The four cylinders are well filled at all times. The inlet camshaft can be infinitely adjusted through a crank angle of 60 degrees, the outlet camshaft by 30 degrees; moreover, on the outlet side the Audi valvelift system varies the valve lift in two stages. What are known as drumble valves direct the incoming air in a specific direction.

The exhaust manifold is integrated in the cylinder head and has coolant flowing around it - a solution, which lowers the temperature of the waste gas and accelerates the warming of the engine after cold start. With the 2.0 TFSI's innovative thermal management system, two rotary slide valves consolidated in a single module regulate the flow of coolant. They ensure that after ignition the engine oil quickly reaches operating temperature. This way they always achieve the best relationship between minimal friction and high thermodynamic efficiency.

An innovative coating for the piston skirt and the anti-friction bearing of the balance shafts keep friction low, the oil pump operates according to needs. A standard start-stop-system rounds out the efficient technology package.

Power transmission

In the new Audi S3 a standard manual six-speed gear box with a light magnesium housing performs the power transmission; covering extremely short distances, changing gear is easy and accurate. As an alternative, Audi offers the S tronic. Like with the manual gear box the lower gears have a low ratio, whereas the sixth gear has a consumption-cutting high ratio. The high degree of efficiency is another feature that is common to both.

The driver of the new S3 can control the twin-clutch gearbox by means of the gear selector or the optional paddles on the steering wheel. Two fully automatic programs are available in addition to the manual mode. The D mode is configured for low fuel consumption and low engine speeds, while the S mode is mapped for a sporty driving style and a higher level of engine speed.

The launch control system manages full-throttle acceleration from a standing start. Fuel-saving coasting is another feature of the six-speed S tronic. It kicks in when the efficiency mode is selected in the Audi drive select system and the driver takes his foot off the gas pedal.

The six-speed S tronic consists of two sub-units, which are alternately actuated by two multi-plate clutches. The large K1 clutch located on the outside directs the torque via a solid shaft to the gear wheels for gears 1, 3 and 5. A hollow shaft rotates around the solid shaft. It is connected to the smaller K2 clutch, which is located inside its larger sibling, and which acts on the gear wheels for gears 2, 4 and 6, as well as reverse.

Both transmission structures are continuously active, but only one of them is connected to the engine at any one time. For example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission section. The shifting process takes place as the clutch changes - K1 opens and K2 closes. It only takes a few hundredths of a second and happens quickly, gently, and without only noticeable interruption to the pulling force.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard in the new Audi S3. The Audi S3 can accelerate earlier and more safely when exiting a corner. It is dynamic and has good road holding in all conditions, demonstrating its superiority in particular in rain and snow.

The new multi-plate clutch with electronic control and hydraulic activation is the centerpiece of the quattro drive. The compact, robust clutch is positioned at the end of the output shaft in front of the rear axle differential, where despite its relatively low weight it helps balance the load on the axle. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath. The metal friction rings are arranged behind one another in pairs - one ring of each pair is rigidly meshed with the housing, which rotates with the prop shaft; the other ring is meshed with the output shaft to the rear axle differential.

During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine's power to the front wheels. If traction decreases there, the clutch can transfer torque seamlessly to the rear axle in just a few milliseconds by forcing the packages of plates together via controlled action.

Chassis

The new Audi S3 offers drive features that set new standards in this class. It responds to steering input precisely and spontaneously, and takes all types of corners at high speed and with little body movement. Its handling is accurate, robust and almost neutral; the suspension nonetheless ensures a high level of comfort.

In comparison with its predecessor the front axle has been moved forward by 42 millimeters (1.65 in), the new 2.0 TFSI is assembled with a 12-degree slope backwards. The subframe and the hinge bearing for the front suspension are made of aluminum, as are the front fenders and the hood. Together with the lighter engine they save around 22 kilograms (48.50 lb) of weight.

Different gear ratios: Progressive steering

Progressive steering is one of the innovations the new Audi S3 boasts. Its rack is meshed such that the gear ratio varies independently of steering input, making it more direct in the event of strong steering maneuvers. In any situation this engineering gives the driver the steering characteristics he desires.

The powerful electric motor providing the servo boost harmonizes perfectly with the character of the steering system, decreasing its output as speed increases. The progressive steering works closely together with various systems on board the new S3, such as the standard rest recommendation and the optional Audi active lane assist and park assist systems.

The front suspension is a McPherson construction. It has a track width of 1,535 millimeters (60.43 in). A stabilizer bar is used front and rear. The four-link rear suspension has a track width of 1,511 millimeters (59.49 in). Its sword-shaped trailing arms absorb the drive and braking forces. For the sake of travel comfort their bearings are large in volume and relatively elastic. On the other hand, the three wishbones per wheel for absorbing lateral forces are attached very rigidly to the steel subframe for enhanced handling.

The links of the rear axle are made of high-strength steels; the wheel carriers are aluminum. The shock absorbers and the compact coil springs are separated from one another, resulting in sensitive response and a large trunk. The sport suspension lowers the body by 25 millimeters (0.98 in) compared with the A3.

As standard the new Audi S3 has 7.5 J x 18 wheels. The tires have a 225/40 format; despite their dynamic qualities their low rolling resistance increases efficiency. The wheels, sporting the five parallel spoke design specific to the S, are made using the flow-forming technique. The outer rim is rolled out over a cylinder at high pressure and high temperature. While the system is shaping the wheel blank it is also strengthening the material, which allows for thinner wall thicknesses - the wheel is lighter, yet stronger. As an alternative Audi mounts 18-inch wheels in three other versions, for the winter there 17 and 18-inch wheels. A tire pressure indicator is standard.

The brakes of the new Audi S3 can be calibrated exactly. All the discs are internally ventilated and are 340 millimeters (13.39 in) in diameter. The brake calipers are painted black and have an S3 badge. They are also available painted red.

The new electromechanical parking brake, which the driver operates via a button, is integrated into the rear axle brake system. The ESC electronic stabilization control boasts a new level of evolution and operates extremely sensitively. In the event of a crash, the standard secondary collision brake assist prevents the new S3 from continuing moving uncontrolled.

Driving dynamism at the touch of a button: Audi drive select

The Audi drive select driving dynamics system embraces the characteristics of the electronic gas pedal, progressive steering support and the shift points of the optional S tronic.

The driver determines with the push of a button whether these systems operate in comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency or individual mode. In individual mode (available with the MMI radio or above), drivers can compose their own preferred profile within certain limits. In the efficiency mode, systems are optimized for fuel efficiency, including the optional comfort automatic climate control system, cruise control system or adaptive cruise control and adaptive light.

Another optional module integrated into Audi drive select is the electromagnetic damper control system Audi magnetic ride. The damper pistons contain a synthetic hydrocarbon oil containing microscopically small magnetic particles. When a coil applies a voltage, the particles align perpendicular to the direction of flow of the oil, impeding its flow through the channels in the pistons.

The system's control unit permanently analyzes the condition of the road and the driving style and keeps adapting the damping forces in milliseconds. The driver is able to switch these systems between three different modes. In the auto mode the new S3 moves smoothly and in the comfort mode relatively gently. In the sport mode, on the other hand, it holds close to the road - the steering commands are implemented even more spontaneously and rolling movement minimized.

Body

One of the core areas of expertise of Audi is the field of lightweight engineering. Including its quattro drive the new S3 weighs in at a mere 1,395 kilograms (3,075.45 lb). Compared with the previous model the curb weight has fallen by 60 kilograms (132.28 lb); With regard to this reversal of the weight spiral the body accounts for 28 kilograms (61.73 lb).

In the occupant cell of the new Audi S3 hot-stamped pieces of steel create a strong composite; they owe their extreme tensile strength and the associated low weight to a drastic leap in temperature during shaping. They account for 26 percent of the body. A tailored rolled blank connects the floor with the rear of the car. The front fenders and the hood are made of aluminum.

The aluminum parts are treated in a highly demanding way - in this Audi benefits from the lightweight engineering know-how gained over the course of several years. The entire body of the new S3 is dominated by a level of precision, which makes the brand stand out in all areas. Between the side walls and the roof, which are made of steel, a plasmatron-soldered seam creates the link. The permitted tolerance is just a few tenths of a millimeter - the seam creates a practically invisible zero joint.

The body of the new Audi S3 has other strengths as well. It achieves very good static and dynamic torsion stiffness levels - this way it lays the foundation for the high level of precision in manufacturing and comfortable noise levels on board. A sound-insulating windscreen standard, and lots of other measures reduce noises on the inside.

The crash safety of the new Audi S3 is second to none. With regard to the aerodynamics and aeroacoustics countless detailed solutions interact. The undercarriage is for the most part covered and the engine bay is optimized for low-loss through-flow. The new Audi S3 is 4,254 millimeters (167.48 in) long, 1,777 millimeters (69.96 in) wide and 1,401 millimeters (55.16 in) tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,596 millimeters (102.20 in), 18 millimeters (0.71 in) more than its predecessor.

Exterior design

With its coupé-like lines the three-door vehicle make a streamlined impression on the road. Each individual design element makes a precise, striking impression on observers. The low hood, the characteristic tornado line beneath the windows and the strongly sloping C-pillars extend the body visually.

The new Audi S3 features the single-frame radiator grille specific to the S. The insert is kept in matte Platinum Gray, its frame in chrome. On the redesigned bumper edges surround the large air inlets, while aluminum-look double ribs give structure to the black diamond-shaped inserts.

The standard headlights feature Xenon plus technology. On its upper and inner edges the LED daytime running light forms a slender, visually homogenous contour of light resembling an eyebrow. In addition adaptive light, which illuminates the road superbly, is also available. S3 customers can also order it with a sliding headlight range control.

With the optional LED headlights Audi is equipping compact cars with premium-range technology. The high-end headlights combine numerous functions - dipped, full beam, daytime running, flashing light, indicator, all-weather light and interstate light. The light distribution adapts to the speed at which the vehicle is moving, in conjunction with the optional MMI Navigation plus there is also a special junction light.

The design of the LED headlights is as fascinating as its technology. Nine high-performance LED chips in two free-form reflectors generate the low-beam light, while the high beam uses ten high-performance LEDs to emit light through an aluminum trim aperture. The low-beam and all-weather light are located in a module of their own; the daytime running and flashing light, which are generated by a light conductor, form a slender contour running along the upper section of the housing. A wing gives structure to the interior of the headlights.

Aluminum-look exterior mirror housings and special sill strips accentuate the side view of the new Audi S3. The long roof spoiler is painted in the color of the car, its small side conductor bars are bright black.

Audi has a choice of 12 body colors. The solid colors are Ibis White, Brilliant Red and Brilliant Black. The metallic hues are called Beluga Brown, Ice Silver, Glacier White, Monsoon Gray and Scuba Bleu. The colors Misano Red and Phantom Black come with a pearl effect finish. The crystal-effect colors Estoril Blue and Panther Black are exclusive to the new S3. In the Audi exclusive program customers can choose their personal desired color.

The rear bumper has also been redesigned. The Platinum Gray diffuser, separated from it by an aluminum-look double bar houses the exhaust system's four oval tailpipes, which sport chrome tips. For the most parts the rear lights use LED technology. The last light, generated by a light conductor, looks like a flat arch.

The interior

The roomy interior of the new Audi S3 continues the dynamics of the exterior design. A detached arch runs round the low, slender instrument panel, which seems to be hovering above the center console. The round air vents and the operating panel for the air conditioning are visual and tactile highlights. As in every Audi, operating them is intuitive, the quality high-end. The trunk offers a base capacity of 325 liters (11.48 cu ft), which can be increased to 1,060 liters (37.43 cu ft) by folding down the split rear seat backs.

The sporty character of the premium compact car is apparent in many of the details. The instrument dials have an S-typical design, with gray taken as the color of the dial faces, and the numerals and needles are in white. The rev counter boasts the S3 logo with a 3D look and tire pressure indicator. The colored driver information system with rest recommendation is standard; the power-retractable on-board 11-millimeter-thin screen (standard with the MMI radio and above) powers up to display a special S3 screen when the ignition is turned. A leather sports steering wheel bearing the S3 emblem is likewise a standard feature and on request Audi can provide two multifunctional leather sports steering wheels, both with the rim flattened downwards. Together with the optional S tronic, the wheel comes with aluminum switches. Other S-specific features include the red ring on the start-stop-button and foot pedals made of brushed stainless steel.

The sports seats have been specially developed. The seat cushions can be extended and the armrests bear the S3 logo. The angle and lengthwise position of the central armrest can be adjusted, optimizing comfort.

There are three upholstery versions available. In the first, the large side bolsters are covered in Pearl Nappa leather while the seat center sections are covered in cloth. The second consists of a combination of perforated Alcantara and Pearl Nappa leather; the third combines Velvet and Fine Nappa leather. Audi also offers optional S sport seats with integrated head restraints and diamond quilting. All versions can be combined with seat heating.

The interior of the new Audi S3, and this includes the inside roof lining, is finished in black. Decorative trim in satin brushed aluminum or in black set refined highlights. An especially exclusive version: the two-color Audi design selection in black/korso red. The Audi exclusive line also provides any number of other special fine veneers.

The equipment

The new Audi S3 will be delivered to dealers in mid-2013. The basic price in Germany will be 38,900 euros or 40,800 euros in the six-gear S tronic version.

The standard features of the new top model in the A3 series are quite astonishing. Alongside the special modifications as regards the exterior, the interior, the drive, power transmission and chassis, it includes Xenon plus headlights with LED light for daytime running, comfort automatic air/con controls with a two-zone setting, a glove compartment package and an alarm system.

The range of sporty and comfortable added extras is unique to the class. Among others, the spectrum includes the adaptive light for the Xenon plus headlights, complete with sliding headlight range controls, LED headlights, the lighting package, a comfort key, a panorama glass roof and darkened side and rear windows.

On request, Audi can equip the new S3 with driver information systems that include all the trailblazing technologies available in the series. The core module is the adaptive cruise control, which ensures mfdd for the car when linked to the Audi pre sense front safety system for speeds of below 30 km/h (18.64 mpg). Then there's the Audi pre sense basic, the Audi side assist, the Audi active lane assist and the camera-based traffic sign recognition system, and the range is rounded out by a parking assistant that handles the steering for the driver when parking or unparking the car.

The Infotainment package is based on a modular system, with pride of place going to the MMI Navigation plus including MMI touch. The high-end system catches the eye with an 11-millimeter-thin electrically extending 7-inch flatscreen and a new user concept that turns the MMI touch into a Touchwheel by means of a rotary pushbutton. The pack is rounded out by a powerful integrated voice control feature.

The Audi Phone Box is another option and combines mobile telephony comfortably with the auto, thus enhancing phone signal reception and transmission. The Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers refined hi-fi pleasure. Discreet LED light guides emphasize the woofers in the doors.

Audi connect

The term Audi connect embraces all the technologies that connect the driver of an Audi to the car, the Internet, the infrastructure, and other vehicles. The Audi connect forms the basic hardware component, which constitutes the MMI Navigation plus extended to feature a UMTS module.

Audi connect hooks the car up to the Internet. Via the integrated WLAN Hotspot, passengers can surf and mail at will using as many as eight different mobile devices. The system delivers Internet services to the car tailored to the driver's needs - from navigation with Google Earth images and Google Maps Street View to Webradio Audi music stream through to online traffic information. Moreover, Audi connect downloads flight and train information as well as current fuel prices. The City Events service offers information on current events.

Access to the Facebook, Twitter and online news, as well as navigation destination services not to mention the image sources for the new Picturebook Navigation can all be configured using an active myAudi account linked to the vehicle, enabling the driver to customize them to his or her personal needs. The e-mail service transmits incoming messages from the mobile phone to the vehicle via voice output. In the case of Facebook and Twitter there's a text function available enabling you to transmit pre-set text modules, combined with data such as your current location if you so wish.

The messages service allows drivers to simply and swiftly send text messages without having to touch a mobile phone in the process. You simply speak the text into the system and it is displayed on-screen for verification or correction before being sent.