AUDI S3 SALOON

Warmed-up version of A3 sets out stall with more power and RS3-spec driveline tech

- FELIX PAGE

Somewhat unexpectedly, the S3 has been updated rather more tangibly than the standard A3, although to look at it, you might be forgiven for thinking otherwise.

The grille is wider, the badge affixed to it is mounted higher, there are new colour options, the headlights have four custom signatures and the rear diffuser has been reshaped. It's not really a lot to get your head around.

The interior modifications, following those to the A3, are more obvious, but it's the revisions to the engine and drivetrain that most overtly differentiate Audi's take on the Volkswagen Golf R, post-update.

Output from the venerable EA888 turbocharged four has been ramped up from 306bhp to 329bhp, and torque is up to 310lb ft, from 295lb ft. Additionally, the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox now squeezes its clutch packs more firmly so it can handle higher torque loads from rest. It is said to shift more quickly to boot.