2009 Audi S3 Sportback

Momentum is also available at the dynamic pinnacle of the A3 family: The S3 is joined by the Audi S3 Sportback. It has the same immensely powerful engine under its hood: The 2.0 TFSI has an output of 195 kW (265 hp); its maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) is constantly available from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. The turbocharged direct injection engine catapults the Audi S3 Sportback into the exclusive class of compact, fast sports cars.

In comparison with the A3, the two-liter engine in the S3 has been intensively further developed. The turbo, with its upsized turbine and compressor turbine wheel, builds up a relative charge pressure of up to 1.2 bar. A reengineered charge air cooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air and thereby increases the air mass required for combustion.

Pistons with reinforced pins operate within this, the most powerful TFSI engine; reinforced, newly mounted connecting rods transmit the forces onto the crankshaft. The cylinder block has been stiffened, with its head being cast from a new, high-temperature alloy. The exhaust camshaft timing has been adapted to the increased output, whilst the high-pressure injectors have been provided with increased cross-sections. With all of its concentrated technology, the highperformance, turbocharged engine weighs just 152 kg (335.10 lb), less than comparable engines from direct competitors.

5.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h: Concentrated dynamics

The Audi S3 Sportback implements its dynamic potential in full. The sprint to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes just 5.8 seconds, with propulsion only being ended at 250 km/h (155.34 mph) by the electronic limiter. However, the high-tech four-cylinder consumes an average of only 8.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (27.67 mpg) - further proof of Audi's successful efficiency strategy.

Like the S3, the Audi S3 Sportback is also a consistent driving machine. The six-speed manual transmission, which is also characterized by its high efficiency, is closely spaced with reduced shift travel.

It conducts the high-performance engine's output to its quattro powertrain, which is fitted as standard in all of Audi's S models. An electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which is located in the rear end for better weight balance, distributes the torque as required, ensuring uncompromising grip and maximum driving safety. All of the powertrain's components have been reinforced.

The A3's already excellent chassis has been further refined in the Audi S3 Sportback. Aluminum swivel bearings and wishbones reduce the unsprung masses to attain even greater dynamics. Stiffer chassis bearings and the electromechanical steering's sportier characteristic curve increase precision.

Alloy wheels with a diameter of 18 inches and 225/40 tires lead to high adhesion onto the road surface. A 17-inch brake system with sports brake pads ensures reliable deceleration; the black calipers at the front bear S3 emblems. The Audi S3 Sportback responds to all requirements with the lightning-fast, intuitive reflexes of an athlete. It reacts spontaneously to steering movements and remains stable, precise and almost entirely neutral at the handling limits.