The Audi S3 now features a torque splitter, an enhancement previously seen in the RS 3 model. This technology boosts the car’s agility and stability by allowing for an adjustable distribution of torque between the rear wheels.
source.image: DPCcars
Essentially, the torque splitter employs electronic clutches on each rear drive shaft. These clutches help adjust how much torque goes to either the inside or outside rear wheel during a turn, based on the driving conditions and the settings selected in the Audi drive select system.
This means the S3 can handle curves more smoothly, adapting its performance to different driving styles and road conditions. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission carries over, but engineers have optimized it to deliver higher starting torque and as a result more rapid acceleration. Shift times have also been cut in half under full load.
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At the heart of the new S3 is an uprated version of the familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. The four-pot TFSI unit now belts out 329 horsepower and 420 Newton-meters of torque. The motor has also been tuned to feel more responsive; the turbocharger keeps a constant rpm at steady speeds and low to medium acceleration.
