The very desirable Audi S3 Sportback

THE Audi S3 Sportback could be described as a wolf in sheep's clothing, a real Q car, if there was one and it packs a punch.

Powering this engaging small Audi is a very potent two litre turbocharged TFSI engine with an output of 265bhp and its maximum torque of 350 Nm is constantly available from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm.

This engine has been intensively developed, the turbo, with its upsized turbine and compressor turbine wheel, builds up a relative charge pressure of up to 1.2 bars.

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A re-engineered charge air cooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air and thereby increases the air mass required for combustion.

Pistons with reinforced pins operate within this, the most powerful TFSI engine; reinforced, newly mounted connecting rods transmit the forces onto the crankshaft.

The cylinder block has been stiffened, with its head being cast from a new, high-temperature alloy.

The exhaust camshaft timing has been adapted to the increased output, whilst the high-pressure injectors have been provided with increased cross-sections.

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With all of its concentrated technology, the high-performance, turbocharged engine is a light weight and weighs just 152 kg, less than comparable engines from its competitors.

This eager performing engine is allied to the S tronic transmission, a 1,400 option, and of course the S3 Sportback further benefits from four wheel drive.

Performance wise and the S3 Sportback can rocket you from standstill to 62mph in a mere 5.8 seconds and it is possible to achieve 27mpg from a gallon of petrol - I managed just over 24mpg on my test run.

In the handling department this Audi excels. I must confess I had expected a bumpy and harsh ride, not so, comfort levels are excellent.

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The A3s already superb chassis has been further refined in the S3 Sportback.

Aluminium swivel bearings and wishbones reduce the unsprung masses to attain even greater dynamics. Stiffer chassis bearings and the electromechanical steering sportier characteristic curve increase precision.

Setting the S3 Sportback apart from its stablemates are 18 inch alloy wheels shod with and 225/40 tyres and a 17-inch brake system with sports brake pads ensures reliable deceleration; the black calipers at the front bear the S3 emblem.

The styling of the new S3 Sportback has not been overdone, a range of sharp lines, on the roof spoiler and the side sills. The radiator grille is fitted with chrome-plated, vertical double bars, the bumper with a powerful spoiler lip. Chrome rings border the fog lamps. A platinum grey diffuser and two large, oval exhaust tailpipes sharpen up the rear end.

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The interior features sports seats with cloth and leather covers greet you and the race-style steering wheel further adds to the character of this car.

You sink into the two tone silk nappa leather upholstery which not only is sporty looking, but smacks of quality.

My test car, in addition to S tronic already noted, had a number of options, including Satellite Navigation System Plus and a Bose premium sound system. Of course you do not need to load with such an array of options.

A very impressive offering from Audi and one which delivers a most rewarding driving experience.