NEW TECHNOLOGY

Audi has released pictures of the new S3 that completes the A3 line-up. Though the company is pitched as a BMW rival, the latest S3 appears to pick up where the Lancia Delta Integrale Evolution II left off in 1993, both having rally-bred predecessors, turbocharged 2-liter engines with four-wheel drive, and 0-60 times of 5.7s. However, at 265 PS, the S3 produces 50PS more than the Integrale due to 20% greater pressure from the turbocharger.

Outside, the car has new 18" rims and sits 25mm lower, emphasised by a deep body kit. Interior changes include bucket-seats, flat-bottomed steering wheel and piano-black inlays, a popular option also used by the new Opel Corsa and Mercedes-Benz CLS. Despite the tie-in of the larger A8 with Bang & Olufsen, the S3 sticks with an impressive Bose sound system. Prices of the Audi S3 in Germany start from $45,000.