New Audi S3 pictures
We get behind the wheel of the all-new 296bhp Audi S3, ahead of its arrival in UK showrooms in July
The Audi S3 is powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged engine, putting out 296bhp and driven through Audi’s Quattro four-wheel drive system.
<span>The S3 isn’t just available as a 3-door hatch, either. It’s available in 5-door </span>Sportback<span>, 4-door </span>saloon<span> and 2-door </span>Cabriolet<span> forms, too.</span>
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<span>The interior of the A3 has always been one of its biggest selling points, and the S3 only adds to this.</span>
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<span>The S3 costs slightly more than its main rival – the BMW M135i, but <span>residual values should be strong.</span></span>
<span>Fitted with 25mm-lower suspension than the standard A3 and Quattro four-wheel-drive, the S3 sticks like glue through the bends.</span>
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<span>The S3 is available with either a six-speed manual or S Tronic automatic gearbox. The S Tronic is well suited to the S3’s hi-tech character, but can </span>be jerky around town.
<span>The standard <span>quilted leather wingback sports</span> seats are supportive when you’re pushing hard, but comfortable enough for long journeys.</span>
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<span>A turbo boost gauge in the rev counter <span>adds to the S3's sense of occasion.</span></span>
<span>A flat-bottomed S3 steering wheel helps remind you <span>that you’re in the 'S' version of the A3 range.</span></span>
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<span>Styling tweaks over the lesser A3s are subtle, including these silver wing mirrors and <span>quad exhausts.</span></span>
<span>The steering in the S3 is less impressive though. Due to the variable ratio system, there is next to no feel. </span>
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<span>As well as a sports exhaust, Audi has fitted a speaker in the bulkhead to pump artificial engine noise into the cabin,. There are surprisingly good results to be heard.</span>
<span>The 2.0 TFSI may be more powerful than the engine it replaces in the old S3, but it’s cleaner, too. With t<span>he six-speed manual transmission, fuel economy can be as high as 40.9mpg on the combined cycle.</span></span>
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<span>Boot space in </span>the S3 varies depending on the bodystyle. The three-door has 325 litres with the rear seats in place, while t<span>he 5-door Sportback has even more space with 340 litres. <span>The S3 Saloon boasts
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