Ken Chester, Jr., Motor News Media Corporation 7 a.m. CST January 13, 2016

2016 Audi S3 sedan(Photo: Motor News Media Corporation)

Introduced to the American marketplace last year, the all-new S3 Sedan expands upon the already sporty character of the A3 sedan, adding S-model-specific details that underscore the high-performance for which Audi S models are known. The 2016 Audi S3 sedan features a unique S-model exterior kit which differentiates it from the standard A3. These changes include: trunk lip spoiler, aluminum-optic mirror housings and front & rear diffuser blades, aluminum door sills with S3 emblems, quad exhaust pipes with finishers, and Platinum Gray matte front grille with chrome struts.

Available in Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels, upgrades and enhancements for 2016 include the following newly standard equipment: rear view camera, parking system plus, auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass, Technology package (MMI Navigation plus package & Audi side assist), and available S3 Black optic performance package. Prestige adds standard active lane assist, Audi pre sense front, Audi adaptive cruise control, and available Red brake calipers.

Power for the S3 is generated by a high-output 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder engine with quattro all-wheel drive that is bolted to a six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain allows the S3 to achieve a speed of 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The sporty personality of the S3 sedan can be traced in part to an optimized distribution of axle loads and a sophisticated chassis. The MacPherson front suspension contains some aluminum components, while the four-link rear suspension handles longitudinal and lateral forces separately. A sensitive power-steering system features an electromechanical drive for high efficiency. Audi can also install progressive power steering, which varies the steering ratio. Electronic limited slip differential an intelligent subsystem of electronic stabilization control (ESC) makes handling even smoother and safer during fast cornering. The S3 comes standard with S design 18-inch wheels with summer performance tires (19-inch wheels available as part of the 19 Performance package)

Exclusive to its segment, the Audi S3 offers an available Audi magnetic ride sport suspension which can be adjusted via the standard Audi drive select system

Inside the passenger cabin, the roomy interior is refined and straightforward. Its instrument panel is lean; the center console is slightly angled toward the driver. The large round air vents, the three-dimensional decorative inlays and the air conditioners elegant control panel evince the attention to detail that Audi devotes to every vehicle. As in all Audi models, controls are easy-to-use and self-explanatory. The large luggage compartment can be extended by folding down the 60/40 rear seat backs.

The S3 sedan marks the first time that a vehicle in this segment will offer MMI technology, Audi drive select, 4G LTE connectivity and Bang & Olufsen audio. Delivering the same prestige and high-quality materials found in the brands flagship A8 model, the compact S3 will also feature standard leather seating surfaces and exceptional ergonomics. The MMI Pluss ultra-sleek seven-inch screen extends electronically from the instrument panel. The user terminal has a turn/push control designed as a touch wheel with MMI touch the touch wheels top surface is a touch-sensitive pad for inputting letters and numbers.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 103.6; overall length: 175.9; width: 77.2; height: 54.8

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.0L turbocharged direct injection four-cylinder 292 hp at 5,400 6,200 rpm and 280 lbs-ft of torque at 1,900 5,300 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 23 city/31 highway

Cargo capacity: 10.0 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, dual front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, dual front knee airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, secondary collision brake assist, traction control, anti-theft alarm, engine immobilizer, power central locking system, automatic Xenon plus high-intensity discharge headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, LED rear fog lights, Bluetooth hands free phone system, Audi advanced key keyless stop, start and entry, parking system plus front/rear parking sensors, rear view camera, Audi pre-sense basic, rain sensing windshield wipers and tire pressure monitoring system. Prestige adds full automatic LED headlights, navigation plus, Audi Connect, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, active lane assist and side assist.

Optional safety features include first aid kit, and rear door mounted side-impact airbags.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile

Free Maintenance: 12 month/5,000 mile

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Audi S3 sedan starts from $42,500 for the Premium Plus and $48,650 for the Prestige. Destination charges add $925.

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