Renewed Audi S3 (2024): 10 updates in a row
1 – More power for Audi S3
With 245 kW (333 hp) and 420 Nm of torque, the updated Audi S3 is more powerful than ever. The 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder now produces 23 hp and 20 Nm more than in the previous model. Result: even more pulling power and even faster acceleration. Maximum torque is available between 2,100 and 5,500 rpm. The S3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h.
2 – Improved engine management
The 2.0 TFSI builds its power even more spontaneously. At constant speeds or low to medium acceleration under partial load, the turbo maintains a constant speed. For faster torque build-up, throttle operation has also been optimized. Especially in Dynamic Mode and in the new Dynamic Plus program, the faster response of the engine is evident.
3 – Sportier setup of the transmission.
Because the clutch plates of the seven-speed S Tronic can handle higher forces, the Audi S3 gets off to an even faster start. In addition, the shift times under full load have been halved, while under part load – when the transmission is in “D” – the engine revs more. This has further improved the responsiveness of the driveline.
4 – Torque splitter
Like the RS 3, the S3 now features a torque splitter, which provides greater stability and agility. The torque splitter distributes torque between the individual rear wheels completely variably, using an electronically controlled lamellar clutch on each driveshaft. When cornering, torque can thus be optimally distributed between the inner and outer rear wheels – depending on driving conditions and the selected Audi Drive Select Mode.
5 – New Audi Drive Select Mode
The new Dynamic Plus Mode guarantees extreme driving sensations. The torque splitter sends as much torque as possible to the rear axle, as well as to the rear wheel on the outside of the corner, so the car tends to oversteer. The ESC is automatically in “sport mode”: subtle interventions provide an even more intense driving experience. The engine and transmission also have specific tuning in Dynamic Plus. Compared to Dynamic, the idle speed is increased by 200 rpm (to 1,300 rpm), so the car gets out of the starting blocks even faster from a standstill. The engine responds even more sharply to the throttle. In addition to shorter shift times, the transmission also shifts up later and down earlier.
6 – Sportier front axle
The McPherson struts have a new pivot bearing. This results in greater negative camber. In fact, compared to the previous model, wheel travel has more than doubled, to just under 1.5 degrees. As a result, the car responds even faster to steering movements and has more grip when cornering. Stiffer wishbones also contribute to improved handling.
7. Improved progressive steering
The S3 has standard progressive steering, where the transmission depends on the steering angle. The further the wheel is turned in, the more direct the steering responses. For better feedback, the steering characteristics have been modified. Especially in the straight-ahead position, the steering centers more emphatically, for better steering precision and feedback.
8 – More powerful brakes
Improved handling allows the brakes to be subjected to heavier loads. Therefore, the S3 now has larger ventilated brake discs at the front, 357 mm in diameter and 34 mm thick. Dual-cylinder calipers and larger brake pads improve deceleration. Improved thermal capacity allows the brake discs to be subjected to heavier loads.
9 – Sportier tires
With the upgrade of the S3, two new 19-inch rims with 235/35 tires have been added to the specification list. These high-performance tires from Falken provide optimal handling and better deceleration. The tires offer remarkable grip, steering precision and stability, and guarantee perfect handling across the entire speed range.
10 – New generation ESC
All chassis control systems are specifically tailored to the dynamic steering and handling characteristics of the redesigned Audi S3. Torque control on the four individual wheels – a function of the ESC, which slightly brakes the inner wheels when cornering quickly – was further developed. As a result, the S3 steers more sharply into a corner and follows the steering angle more accurately. The ESC’s sport mode is tuned for maximum dynamics and works closely with the engine, transmission and torque splitter.
Audi announces more information, specifications and prices of the updated Audi S3 ahead of its Dutch market launch.
