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The Audi S3 Saloon In Europe This Spring

Topics:  Audi S3

The Audi S3 Saloon In Europe This Spring

Geoff Maxted
DriveWrite
January 15, 2014

With the 300bhp S3 sports variant, Audi delivers a flagship for its range of A3 saloons. The car maker believes the very smart saloon range will become the A3's best-selling body style, accounting for more than fifty percent of total volume because of strongly anticipated demand in markets where this body style is popular. It will be launched in Europe around February and then progressively worldwide.

To be built in Hungary, the new car accelerates from 0-62mph in a feisty 4.9 seconds - when using the Launch Control function available with the S-tronic 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Powered by a 300bhp 2.0L petrol direct-injection turbocharged engine, performance is aided by a very sporty power-to-weight ratio, thanks to the car's light weight at 1430kg. Top speed is limited to the now standard 155mph. Quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system is standard to help the driver keep control. Inside, you can have any colour you like as long as it’s the all-black interior including the standard inlays in matt brushed aluminium.

Currently, the five-door Sportback is the top-selling A3 body style, accounting for 60 percent of the range's volume, but this share will no doubt decline as the saloon rolls out globally. Audi began delivering A3 saloons to customers last October, now the S3 debuts next month in Europe.