The Audi A3 is preparing for a mid-career restyle. To confirm the imminent debut of the revamped Sportback and Saloon, Audi shows us the first camouflaged photos of the prototypes of the S3, the sporty version of the range.
The curious thing is that the five- and four-door Audi S3 restyling prototypes are announced with several mechanical updates, which is not too common for a restyling. In fact, the cars sporting the typical Audi Sport livery hide an updated version of the well-known 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder turbo petrol engine under the bonnet, which reaches 333 PS (+23 PS compared to the outgoing model) and 420 Nm of torque (+20 Nm).
Shift times halved
The upgraded engine of the new Audi S3 is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with shifting times halved when accelerating at full throttle. Perhaps even more important is the addition of a rear splitter inherited from the RS 3.
Audi S3 restyling (2024), camouflaged prototypes
Although it does not have a dedicated drift mode, the new hardware should make the S3 more fun when pushing hard into corners. Drivers are likely to feel more confident behind the wheel thanks to better grip achieved with optimal torque distribution between the two rear wheels.
Big brakes
With great power comes great responsibility, which is why Audi have fitted the S3 facelift with bigger brakes on the front axle. The 18-inch steel discs are 357 mm in diameter and have been made 4 mm thicker to 34 mm. The front discs are embraced by new twin-piston calipers and are fitted with larger pads to provide a greater friction surface. Audi has worked with Falken on a new set of 235/35 tyres that are more grippy for the 19-inch wheels.
Audi S3 Sportback restyling (2024), the wheel detail
In addition to more powerful brakes, the front axle features a new MacPherson strut bearing and stiffer swing arms. Thanks also to the evolution of the progressive steering system and tuned dampers, the German luxury brand claims that the S3 is now sharper than ever.
Waiting for the restyled Audi A3 2024
The full reveal is scheduled for 2024, when Audi will present the entire updated Audi A3 family. Logic tells us that the engine range should mirror that of the recently unveiled Volkswagen Golf .
Audi S3 Sportback restyling (2024), the instrument cluster
The RS 3 will also receive changes, perhaps with more power from the five-cylinder engine without resorting to electrification. The Ingolstadt brand has hinted that the 2.5-litre TFSI could be modified to make more power than the current 401 PS (394 PS in Europe).
Audi A3, S and RS 3 Restyling Spy Photos:
Source: Audi