2017 Audi S3 Sportback Gets Updated Drivetrain, Technology
Audi already unwrapped its new A3 family, which included a hatchback, sedan and cabriolet—all of which have quite powerful performances on the road. The hatchback version, however, deserves special attention, especially as it comes both in three- and five-door body styles.
Similar to the rest of the A3 family, the Audi S3 Sportback has a redesigned front fascia, updated rear end, enhanced technology, and a slightly more powerful drivetrain. It’s a good facelift and has a pretty improved engine, but it’s clear why Audi came up with it—to satisfy clients while waiting for the next generation model.
The S3 is inspired heavily by the new generation A4, and used many of the sedan’s sharper features and more aggressive body lines. The engine hood and the bumper have a more muscular appearance. It also has larger air vents and a U-shaped gap under the grille.
Looking closely at the style, you’ll find new taillights with horizontal LED strips, a reshaped bumper, and a new diffuser with larger fins. There are six color palettes available—Ara Blue, Cosmic Blue, Nano Grey, Tango Red, and Vegas Yellow.
Inside, Audi didn’t change much in the S3 Sportback. There are a few changes, of course, such as the mildly redesigned three-spoke steering wheel, an optional heating function, and leather-wrapped driver seat with massage function.
The important changes are all in the tech department. There’s Audi’s virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT screen with multiple display modes, navigation, audio system and phone info. It also offers LTE connectivity that provides WiFi hotspot for mobile devices, Google Earth, Google Street View, parking and traffic info, and weather.
The S3 comes with the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an output of 310 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Transmission options include a seven-speed S Tronic automatic and a six-speed manual.
That power can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds with the manual gearbox and 4.9 seconds with the automatic. Top speed is put at 155 mph.
Audi is not selling the S3 in the US, or any of the models in the A3 family. Prices, if you’re interested to know, will be around €42,600 in Germany.
