What's all this about?

It’s the new Audi S3, based on the latest-generation A3 and upgraded with more power and torque than its predecessor. And because it’s based on the new A3, it also gets a fresh design inside and out.

More power, you say?

Indeed. Where the old car produced a pretty meaty 310hp, the new S3 gets 333hp from its 2.0-litre, turbocharged petrol engine, while torque has increased to 420Nm, and that’s available across a wider rev range. As before, the torque heads to all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The upshot is a 0-62mph time of 4.7 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

Any other mechanical changes?

Oh yes. The gearbox, for example, has a sportier tune than its predecessor, with shift times halved under full load and engine speeds increased under partial load. That, Audi claims, makes the car feel more responsive.

At the same time, Audi has also fitted a torque splitter to the S3, with the intention of increasing agility and stability at the same time. Essentially, the system can distribute the torque between the rear wheels using a clutch on each drive shaft, allowing the car to send more or less power to the inside or outside rear wheel during a corner, depending on the driving situation and the driving mode.

Furthermore, Audi has also modified the suspension for better steering response and improved grip, while the steering has been “optimised” for more precision around the dead-ahead position. The brakes have also grown to cope with the extra power.

What about the looks?

The S3 has inherited many of the same features as the new A3, such as the new grille and lights, but Audi has given it a sportier twist. There’s a new front spoiler, for example, and a new rear bumper that shrouds the four tailpipes that characterise the S3. Audi has also lowered the car by 15mm compared with the standard A3.

And inside...?

In the cabin, Audi has lined the interior with dark colours and some silver accents, with stainless steel pedals brightening a cabin with dark roof lining and dashboard trim. However, the car comes with a three-spoke sports steering wheel as standard, along with three-zone climate control and some Dinamica microfibre upholstery.

Audi has also added some functionality to the central touchscreen display, in the shape of extra connectivity and voice control, while the car comes with a digital instrument display and wireless phone charging as standard.

So how much will it cost?

Audi hasn’t said yet, but we do know the car will go on sale in May, offering customers a choice of hatchback (Sportback, in Audi parlance) and saloon body styles.