2006-2013

In August 2006, Audi introduced the second-generation S3, available in three- and five-door body styles. It was equipped with a modified Volkswagen Group-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged FSI petrol engine, producing 195 kW (265 PS; 261 bhp). The engine featured performance upgrades, including high-performance pistons, revised boost/fuel mapping, a larger turbocharger, and an enlarged intercooler. The S3 offered Quattro four-wheel drive and achieved a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 5.5 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Transmission options included a six-speed manual and a six-speed S-Tronic automatic. The S3 employed the Haldex Traction system for its on-demand four-wheel-drive transmission, different from the traditional Torsen center differential in other Quattro models due to its transverse engine layout. In terms of safety, Euro NCAP tested the second-generation Audi A3 (on which the S3 is based) and found improvements in occupant protection but criticized its pedestrian safety, giving it a poor rating due to insufficient front-end protection.