2022 Audi S3 Gets More Power, Aggressive Styling
The next-generation 2022 Audi A3, which we covered a couple of weeks ago and is scheduled to go on sale in North America in mid-2021, is now being followed by the sporty S3.
The highlight, of course, is the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine now producing 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque instead of 288 and 280, respectively. A seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system handle power delivery to the four wheels.
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The new S3 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. Drivers can use the Audi Drive Select system to make the sound of the turbo engine even crisper.
The model-specific suspension gets firmer calibration, while the brakes are larger and internally ventilated. The company says the spread between comfort and dynamism is even wider than for the previous model in order to satisfy more drivers.
Aesthetically, the 2022 Audi S3 stands out with a more prominent grille and front air intakes (including three thin vents just below the hood), slightly tweaked headlights and distinctive 19-inch wheels. Let’s not forget the more aggressive rear spoiler and quad tailpipes built into the diffuser.
Inside, you’ll find a bit more space than in the previous generation including two extra centimetres of headroom for front passengers. The S3 also gets newly developed sport seats wrapped in a fabric largely made from recycled PET bottles, accentuated by stylish contrast stitching. The dashboard (including the 10.1-inch touchscreen angled toward the driver), digital instrument cluster (available in 10.25- or 12.3-inch sizes), centre console and trim elements have all been revised and look pretty impressive.
These go hand-in-hand with modern technologies such as a head-up display system, third-generation modular infotainment platform (with a processor that is 10 times faster than the old one), integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging and the possibility to turn your smartphone into a digital key.
It’s obviously too early to talk about pricing for the 2022 Audi S3 (the current model starts at $48,400), but we anticipate a very interesting battle with the BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe (301 hp, $50,900) and Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC (302 hp, $49,200). Later, we’ll get the high-performance Audi RS 3 variant, which should retain its expressive five-cylinder engine.