Audi S3

© Cyril de Plater / F. Veillard

Life is more than just R8s and TTs. Not everyone necessarily has the financial means; not everyone can be satisfied with a small passenger compartment, better suited to childless singles.

But that doesn't mean others will be frustrated. Audi now offers them the new generation of S3s, the sporty version of the compact A3. The previous generation of Audi S3s boasted a 210 hp 1.8-litre turbo engine, and a so-called 'quattro' transmission which was essentially front-wheel drive as the rear end got only 18% of the torque.

This new generation, only proposed in the 3-door version, is clearly more ambitious, with transmission to the four wheels on an equal basis, and a far more powerful engine. It is still a four cylinder, but a 2 litre FSI petrol direct injection with a turbocharger generating a boost pressure of 1.2 bar, which is by no means current. We have already seen it under the bonnet of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, where it delivers 200 hp. Here, fortified by a higher boost pressure, an intercooler with better performances, a reworked high-performance engine, new high pressure injectors and far higher revs per minute (6,000 rpm as against 5,100 in the Golf), it boast no less than 265 hp.

The new S3 accelerates from 0 à 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, not bad at all, then on to a governed top speed of 250 km/h, as before. Last but not least, this very high performance, rather aggressive engine seconded by a manual six-speed gearbox, is nevertheless very economical as it consumes on average only 9.1 litres of fuel per 100 km. Enjoy driving sportily without ruining your family.

As for its chassis, the Audi S3 sits firmly 25 mm lower than the A3 and has fine 18 inch wheels fitted with generously large 225/40 tyres. The S3 distinguishes itself from its little sisters of the A3 family by a more aggressive front splash apron emphasising the usual trapezoidal single-frame radiator grille.

The specific car body bottom remains rather discreet, while the fake air extractor at the rear serves merely to enhance the two chromed tailpipes and also the outside mirrors. In the passenger compartment, Audi is also chic in an understated manner. After all, the other members of the family have to be won over, without being put off by anything.

The sporty treatment is limited to half bucket seats, aluminium pedals, some rather cute inlays in piano-finish black, and a speedometer graduated to 300 km/h - excessive to say the least. Those who feel the need can improve the standard equipment with a sports steering wheel with integrated controls (which will set you back £262 ...) or leather upholstery costing £2,200 ... on top of the £2,750 price to drive away with this car. No bargain, even if the standard equipment is rather generous with, for instance, Xenon headlamps and a satellite location and immobilisation system in the event of theft. This last feature is an excellent initiative though when you bear in mind the immoderate liking of fourwheel drive Audis on the part of all kinds of hold-up men.