Audi S3 Pre Model 2.0 TFSi quattro S tronic 3dr Car Review - May 2013

The 2.0 litre engine that is included with the new S3 is a step up over the previous model, and acceleration is particularly impressive, as the smooth S tronic gearbox features a launch control system that sends the car from 0-62mph in just 4.8 seconds. The top speed of 155mph is electronically limited, and this gives it plenty of go for motorway driving, while the ride is also quite comfortable considering its performance. The car handles very well responding quickly to the wheel and feels stable with plenty of grip around the corners too.

Getting comfortable in the car is not a problem with the supportive S3 seats an improvement over the regular A3 ones, while the steering wheel and seat both adjust for height and reach. Refinement in the cabin isn't particularly good, but this is a conscious decision from Audi who have looked to allow drivers to enjoy the sound of the engine as it is pushed through its paces.

At first glance the S3 is very similar to the standard looks of the A3, with the angular Audi headlight clusters and Xenon headlights being a nod to the differences in the car. The four chrome exhaust pipes and the large alloys are another sign that this is a very different beast from the A3 which is a common sight on Britain's roads. Inside the car is given a sportier look, with contrast stitching in the seats, and a classy steering wheel that provides easy access to the paddles for the gearbox.

The multimedia system is one of the highlights of the equipment included with the S3, with a clever screen that pops out from the dashboard. The car also enjoys keyless ignition, air conditioning and an electric parking brake, while the inclusion of parking sensors also helps to give the car a premium feel.

The S3 is very similar to the A3 when it comes to practicality, with headroom and legroom in the rear of the car sufficient for most people, and the boot is also quite large, although doesn't quite get as much space as the Ford Focus ST. The folding seats can be used to increase load space in the back of the car, while it also enjoys a good selection of small clever storage spaces to hold those little items.

As you would expect, the S3 received top marks in the Euro NCAP safety test and comes with a range of air bags. It also enjoys a range of electronic systems including a rest recognition which will advise the driver to take a break if it senses the driver is tired. Audi has long had a reputation for building reliable cars, and the S3 is largely an evolution of previous models meaning it should continue this fine reputation.

The list price for the S3 model is likely to be a hefty step up from the top end versions of the A3, while the running costs for the car are still quite high, despite seeing improvements from the previous version of the S3. The 2.0 litre engine is able to deliver an average of 40.9mpg, but it is the high insurance group that will really hurt some people, particularly younger drivers.

The S3 is likely to be a very popular car, so it is worth keeping a full service history, while being conservative with your choice of colour will also make it more desirable, and help it to hold its value quite well when it comes to selling up. The Audi on the road package includes a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and a three year RAC membership.