A 300-horsepower 5-door hatchback!

The high-performance version of the premium compact car "A3," the "S3," debuted at last year's Paris Motor Show 2012. Now, the 5-door version, the "S3 Sportback," has finally been announced.

The engine is a 2-liter, inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, the "TSFI."Previous S3 SportbackCompared to the previous generation "S3 Sportback," maximum output is up by 44ps to 300ps/5,500rpm. Maximum torque is up by 50Nm to 380Nm. This is generated across a very wide rev range, from just 1,800rpm up to the 5,500rpm where maximum output is produced. It is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, with Audi's renowned quattro 4WD system as standard.

The vehicle weighs 1,445kg, achieving a weight reduction of 70kg compared to the previous model. Combined with this lighter body, the S tronic model completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.0 seconds. This is 0.6 seconds faster than the previous S3 Sportback's 5.6 seconds, achieving performance comparable to the 3-door version of the "S3" that was announced earlier.



Despite such performance improvements, fuel efficiency has also increased. While the previous model achieved 8.4ℓ/100km (approx. 12km/ℓ), the new model records an impressive 6.9ℓ/100km (approx. 14.5km/ℓ).

It also features "progressive steering," which variably controls the steering ratio. This provides optimal steering feel in various driving situations. It achieves sharp handling response required for sporty driving without sacrificing maneuverability in parking lots or narrow streets. These features are integrated with "Audi drive select" to control the S tronic and electronic accelerator pedal response.

The price in Germany is 39,800 euros (approx. 4.94 million yen), with deliveries scheduled for September of this year.

Audi S3 Sportback | アウディ S3 スポーツバック
Body Dimensions | Length 4,324 × Width 1,785 × Height 1,404 mm
Wheelbase | 2,631 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,535 / 1,511 mm
Weight | 1,445 kg
Engine | 1,984cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection DOHC Turbo
Maximum Output | 221kW (300ps) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 380Nm (38.7kgm) / 1,800-5,500 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Manual / 6-speed S tronic
Drivetrain | 4WD (quattro)
Tires | 225/40R18
0-100km/h Acceleration | 5.0 seconds
Fuel Consumption | 6.9ℓ/100km
Price | 39,800 Euros