Prototype Drive of Audi S3: A Unique and Informative Experience
Audi has described its latest S3 Sportback as “more than a mere product upgrade,” and after analyzing the changes made to the car, it’s clear that there is substance behind this claim. The previous generation of the S3 had received criticism for its ride quality and interior feel, but it seems that Audi’s engineers have taken these concerns to heart and made significant improvements.
The new S3 is set to be released in a few months as part of a broader refresh for the Audi A3 range. While we cannot discuss the exterior or interior styling of the revised S3 due to the prototype status of the car, we can focus on the mechanical changes that have been made.
Under the hood, the S3 still features the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 2.0-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder engine. However, the output has been increased by 25bhp to 329bhp, and torque has been raised by 15lb ft to 310lb ft. The engine tuning has also been adjusted to preload the turbocharger under low to medium acceleration, resulting in faster power delivery when needed.
The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox has also been enhanced, with higher starting torque and reduced shift times under full load. Engine speeds have been increased under partial load when the transmission is in D mode. The most notable addition is the torque-splitter system from the Audi RS3 mega-hatch, which allows torque to be distributed between the two rear wheels in various ways depending on the driving mode.
A new mode called Dynamic Plus has been introduced, offering a faster idle speed, shorter shifts, and a more direct throttle response. This mode also sends as much drive torque as possible to the rear axle and from there to the outside rear wheel during cornering, enhancing handling and agility.
The sports suspension of the S3 has been improved with a new pivot bearing on the front MacPherson strut, allowing for more negative wheel camber and better steering response. Stiffer wishbones, bearings, and retuned adaptive dampers have also been added. The 19-inch wheels now come with two new 235/35 tire types, including a Falken sports set that significantly improves handling and braking. Larger front brakes with 357mm steel discs provide better stopping power, and the progressive steering system has been tweaked for improved responsiveness.
During a prototype drive in the coastal city of Salalah, Oman, the S3 demonstrated impressive ride quality on bumpy and dusty roads. It strikes a good balance between stiffness and comfort, making it more enjoyable to drive than some other hot hatches.
However, it is on the challenging switchbacks of the Dhofar mountains that the S3 truly shines. The torque splitter system allows for precise distribution of torque between the rear wheels, resulting in exceptional grip and composure during aggressive cornering. The car inspires confidence and allows for controlled rear-end slides, with the stability control quickly intervening to maintain stability.
The steering is nicely responsive in Dynamic modes, but some drivers may want it to be more involving. Nevertheless, the overall driving experience is enjoyable, and Audi seems to have successfully improved upon the previous generation’s shortcomings.
While the final version of the S3 still needs to be tested on familiar roads to assess ride quality and interior improvements, the early signs are positive. Audi has focused on the details, making significant enhancements to create a more well-rounded package.
The new Audi S3 Sportback is expected to be priced around £45,000 and will compete with rivals such as the BMW M135i, Mercedes-AMG A35, and Volkswagen Golf R.
In conclusion, Audi’s prototype drive of the S3 has revealed a car that has undergone substantial improvements in terms of performance and handling. With a more powerful engine, enhanced gearbox, torque-splitter system, and improved suspension, the S3 offers a unique and enjoyable driving experience. While we await the final version to assess interior upgrades and ride quality, Audi seems to have successfully addressed the previous generation’s shortcomings, making the new S3 a compelling option in the hot hatch segment.
