The new flagship of the A3 range – the Audi S3 Sportback – has arrived.

Priced at $68,310 (RRP), this dynamic and sporty addition further enhances the class-leading A3 range.

The new Audi S3 Sportback comes with the renowned 2.0 TFSI engine, category class winner for four successive years at the International Engine of the Year awards. With an output of 188 kW, this powerful turbo charged direct injection engine catapults the new S3 Sportback into the exclusive class of fast compact sports cars. Maximum torque of 330 Nm is constantly available from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm.

The new S3 Sportback sprints to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h. However, the high-tech four-cylinder consumes an average of just 8.5 litres per 100 km on the combined cycle – further proof of Audi’s successful efficiency strategy.

A six-speed manual transmission with reduced shift travel is featured in the new S3 Sportback. It transmits the high-performance engine’s output to the 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 for better weight balance, distributes the torque as required, ensuring uncompromising grip and maximum driving safety.

The A3’s already excellent chassis has been further refined in the S3 Sportback. Aluminium 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.

The sports suspension integrates a range of lightweight aluminium components, and lowers the body by 25 mm. A 17” brake system with sports brake pads ensures reliable deceleration and the black callipers at the front bear S3 emblems.

At a length of 4,302 mm, the new S3 Sportback is +72 mm longer than its 3-door stable-mate and stands +3 mm higher. Overall width remains the same at 1,765 mm.

Available for the first time in this model range, the S3 Sportback can be optioned with Audi magnetic ride. As seen in the R8 and TT, Audi magnetic ride is an electronic suspension control system. A synthetic hydrocarbon oil, in which magnetic particles with a grain size of just three to ten micrometres are enclosed, circulates in the shock absorber plungers. Audi magnetic ride is available as a $2,400 option.

Audi Park Assist is a new system that uses special ultrasonic sensors on the driver and passenger sides to determine a suitable sized parallel parking space. If a space is sufficiently large enough to reverse into, corresponding information is displayed in the instrument cluster and once reverse gear is engaged the Park Assist system performs the necessary steering movements while the driver performs longitudinal movements by operating the brake, accelerator and clutch. The system is priced at $950.

The new S3 Sportback features exterior design cues including a chrome-plated radiator grille, vertical double bars, and a front bumper with powerful spoiler lip.

Chrome rings border the fog lamps. A platinum grey diffuser and two large oval exhaust tailpipes sharpen up the rear as do the redesigned tail light clusters. S-specific exterior mirrors with indicators round out the design. Fitted as standard are new S design 18” alloy wheels and Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights.

Inside, embossed Silk Nappa leather sport seats, S design multi-function leather sports steering wheel, BOSE speaker system and Bluetooth mobile phone preparation are amongst some of the many standard features. From the Audi exclusive quattro GmbH range, a new flat-bottom design multi-function leather sports steering wheel is also available as an option. Aluminium-look pedals and S3 door sill strips come as standard to enhance the sporty appeal of this new model.

Safety is not compromised as the new S3 Sportback comes standard with an Electronic Stabilisation Programme ESP incorporating ABS, Traction Control ASR, and an Electronic Differential Lock EDL. SIDEGUARD head and curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, together with side and front airbags round out the passive safety package.