Power boost coming for Audi S3

AUDI has revealed details of its facelifted S3 this week, the hot hatch and sedan range now matching the power and torque values offered in the related Volkswagen Golf R at 245kW and 420Nm – an increase of 17kW and 20Nm respectively.

The improvement shaves 0.1 seconds from the 0-100km/h sprint time of the S3, down to 4.7 seconds, and is backed by a rear-biased Dynamic Plus drive mode shared with the RS3 Audi says aims to increase rear axle oversteer.

When selected, Dynamic Plus also benefits by shortening gearshift timing by half, the S3 receiving a remapped engine and transmission tune providing higher start-off torque and lower idling speeds (down 200rpm to 1300rpm). In all there are six driver-selectable modes available.

The model also scores the RS3’s rear axle torque splitter to enable variable torque distribution between the left and right wheels.

Other revisions see the 2024 Audi S3 equipped with firmer lowered suspension, a unique steering map, recalibrated stability control and torque vectoring systems, and larger diameter (357mm) front brake rotors for improved stopping power.

The S3 joins the recently updated Audi A3 in receiving a handful of exterior design changes including a wider and flatter hexagonal Singleframe grille, revised lower bumper treatment over quad exhaust outlets, and newly sculpted rear bumper cover.

Alloy wheel designs are offered in 18- and 19-inch sizing and are now shod with Falken-sourced tyres.

The paint palette grows by four to include Ascari Blue, Distinct Green, Matte Daytona Grey, and Progressive Red.

On the technology front, we find driver-selectable daytime running lights paired with Matrix LED headlights, a revised tail-light design, 30-colour interior LED ambient lighting – now extended into the door panels, an optional Sonos premium 3D sound system, updated gearshift toggle switch, and adaptive cruise control lane change function (as part of the blind spot monitoring system).

“The four DRL signatures offer our customers a higher degree of personalisation,” said Audi light experience head of design Cesar Muntada.

“They can change the expression of their model at any time. The signatures interpret self-confidence and agility in different ways. This is also true for the coming home home/leaving home scenarios, which were designed individually for each signature.”

In its home market, the updated Audi S3 is available from €55,600 ($A91,415). Local pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the model’s Australian launch.

The current S3 is available from $75,400 plus on-road costs. Class competitors include the BMW M135i xDrive (from $76,600 + ORC), Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic (from $87,900 + ORC) and Volkswagen Golf R (from $70,590 + ORC).