Monday, November 25, 2013

Audi Service, Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Review of the The Audi S3 Sedan - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

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 Impressive power and ground breaking efficiency:

The Audi S3 Sedan sets new standards. Its 2.0 TFSI is a high-output engine, producing 221 kW (300 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque, yet consumes on average with S tronic just 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (34.09 US mpg). The uncompromising chassis and systematic lightweight construction underscore the dynamic character of the four-door model.

The heart of the Audi S3 Sedan is the engine, the 2.0 TFSI with turbocharging and direct injection. Its predecessor was named “International Engine of the Year” in its class five times in a row, and the new 2.0 TFSI boasts even more impressive figures. Its peak output of 221 kW (300 hp) is available between 5,500 and 6,200 rpm. It delivers a 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 1,800 and 5,500 rpm.

Paired with the S tronic, the two-liter engine accelerates the S3 Sedan from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.9 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). In the NEDC, the four-door sedan with S tronic consumes just 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (34.09 US mpg) on average – a CO2 equivalent of 159 grams per kilometer (255.89 g/mile).

The 2.0 TFSI is a fascinating sport engine and its resonant sound makes for an intensive experience. When the standard Audi drive select dynamics system is in dynamic mode, it responds even more directly to accelerator commands, with brief double-clutching underscoring the change of gears by the optional S tronic. The sound flaps in the exhaust system open at higher load and rpm. Two balance shafts ensure tremendous smoothness.

With a bore-to-stroke ratio of 82.5 x 92.8 millimeters (3.25 x 3.65 in), it has a displacement of 1,984 cc. High-load aluminum pistons and higher-strength connecting rods with new bearings transmit the forces to the crankshaft. The new aluminum-silicon alloy used for the cylinder head (a new development compared to the 1.8 TFSI) combines high temperature resistance and strength with low weight.

The upgraded turbocharger further increases output; it develops up to 1.2 bar of charge pressure and can withstand exhaust temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Celsius. A modified charge air intercooler lowers the temperature of the compressed air sharply, thus increasing the mass of air available for combustion. The electronically controlled wastegate valve operates very quickly and precisely. At part load, it reduces the back pressure and thus the exhaust pressure resulting in reduced charge-cycles.

The four cylinders are always well filled with the optimum mixture of fuel and air. “Swumble” flaps (swirl and tumble) induce a targeted charge motion in the inflowing air – this is the basis for an optimum mixture preparation. The intake camshaft can be adjusted variably by up to 60 degrees of crankshaft rotation, the exhaust camshaft by 30 degrees. On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) varies valve lift in two stages.

Additional technical features from Audi’s modular efficiency platform contribute to the low fuel consumption of the 2.0 TFSI. One example is the additional indirect injection as a supplement to FSI direct injection. Under part load, this minimises fuel consumption and particulate emissions. FSI fuel injection comes into play when starting and at higher load.

The innovative thermal management system uses two rotary valves combined in a single module to regulate coolant flow and temperature. These valves ensure that the engine oil heats up to its optimum operating temperature as soon as possible. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head, a further solution that accelerates engine warm-up following a cold start and lowers the exhaust temperature. Other efficiency measures include reduced friction by means of an innovative coating for the piston skirts and roller bearings for the balance shafts, as well as a demand-controlled oil pump and the start-stop system.

Lightning-fast: The six-speed S tronic
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A six-speed manual transmission and the six-speed S tronic are available. The lower gears of both transmissions are tightly spaced for sporty performance. The tall ratio of the top gear lowers rpm and thus fuel consumption. The driver can operate the lightning-fast and nearly imperceptibly smooth-shifting S tronic in either the D and S automatic modes or manually using the optional paddles on the steering wheel.

For standing starts, Launch Control (only with S tronic) delivers the engine’s power to the road with defined tire slip. Another feature of the dual-clutch transmission is the fuel-saving coasting mode. It is activated when Audi drive select is set to efficiency and the driver takes his or her foot off of the accelerator.

The standard quattro permanent all-wheel drive gives the Audi S3 Sedan the decisive extra when it comes to traction, dynamics and stability. Its centerpiece is a newly developed, electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch; in order to distribute weight more efficiently, it is placed in front of the rear differential. The compact and relatively lightweight clutch distributes the power. Most of it is sent to the front wheels. If traction decreases there, torque is redirected steplessly to the rear wheels.
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Highly advanced: The chassis

The chassis harmonizes extremely well with the powerful engine. The Audi S3 Sedan responds to steering input precisely and spontaneously, taking all types of corners at high speed and with little body movement.

A key factor is the balanced axle load distribution of 59 percent to 41 percent between the front and rear axles. The 12-degree rearward inclination of the engine and the front axle located far to the front contribute to this. Both solutions are part of the Modular Transverse Matrix. The subframe and pivot bearings of the front suspension are made of aluminum. The rear axle is a four-link design.

The sport suspension lowers the body of the S3 Sedan by 25 millimeters (0.98 in) compared with the A3 Sedan. The standard feature progressive steering makes handling even sportier. Its steering rack is designed so that the steering ratio becomes increasingly direct when turning. The result is reduced steering effort when parking and when in city traffic. Steering is extremely precise during fast, sporty driving. Steering boost varies as a function of speed to ensure excellent steering characteristics for every driving situation.

The steering works closely together with various assistance systems on board the new S3 Sedan, such as the standard rest recommendation and the optional Audi active lane assist and park assist systems.

The new Audi S3 Sedan comes standard with 8 J x 18 wheels in a five parallel- spoke design. Flow forming technology makes them very lightweight. The rim well is rolled out under high pressure and at high temperature. This process strengthens the material, thus permitting thinner wall thicknesses. 18-inch wheels in a variety of designs are available as options. 19-inch wheels are also available in combination with the optional Audi magnetic ride damper control system. 225/40 R18 tires are standard.

With a diameter of 340 millimeters (13.39 in), the front brake discs are large. Their black (optionally red) calipers bear S3 logos. The latest evolution of the ESC electronic stabilization control system intercedes every bit as sportily as sensitively.

Also standard in the Audi S3 Sedan is the Audi drive select dynamics system, which controls the function of the accelerator, power steering and the optional S tronic. The driver can switch between the modes comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency and individual at the push of a button. The individual mode allows the driver to specify his own profile of preferred settings.

Audi drive select also influences the optional Audi magnetic ride damper control system. Circulating inside the shock absorber pistons is a synthetic hydrocarbon oil containing tiny magnetic particles. When a voltage is applied to a coil, a magnetic field is generated in which the particles realign so that they are oriented perpendicular to the oil flow thereby impeding its flow in the shock absorber channels.

The system’s controller continuously analyzes the driver’s style and the condition of the road and adjusts the damping forces within milliseconds. The driver can choose between three modes. In auto mode, the dynamic four-door model is very balanced; in comfort mode, relatively soft. In dynamic mode, however, it assumes a taut stance on the road. The targeted support of the wheels provides for more neutral self-steering behavior and more precise steering response.

Aluminum and ultra high-strength steel: The body

The outstanding dynamics of the Audi S3 Sedan are also attributable to its lightweight construction, one of Audi’s great strengths. Equipped with the manual transmission, the four-door model has a curb weight (without driver) of just
1,430 kilograms (3,152.61 lb). Ultra high-strength steels are used in many areas of the occupant cell; the engine hood is made of aluminum.

The Audi S3 Sedan also expresses its dynamic nature visually, with an athletic design and a decisive look. The flat engine hood, the precisely drawn lines, the tautly curved surfaces and the flat roof arch stretch the body visually. The new top-of-the-line model is 4,469 millimeters (14.66 ft) long, 1,796 millimeters (5.80 ft) wide and 1,392 millimeters (4.57 ft) tall. The long wheelbase of 2,631 millimeters (8.63 ft) provides for a generously spacious interior.

Specific details underscore the high-performance character of the Audi S3 Sedan. The S-specific Singleframe grille has aluminum-look, double horizontal bars. A chrome frame surrounds the grille; the insert is finished in matt platinum gray. Aluminum-look double ribs and honeycomb inserts fill the air inlets in the bumper, which are framed with strongly flared edges. Audi offers optional LED headlights for excellent illumination of the road and an unmistakable look.

Aluminum-look exterior mirror housings and the sill strips catch the eye on the flanks of the four-door sedan. The rear bumper has been redesigned, and a subtle spoiler lip provides an aesthetic design feature at the top of the trunk lid. The rear lights predominantly employ LED technology. The platinum gray diffuser has an aluminum-look double bar and four ribs. It encloses the exhaust system’s four oval tailpipes with their chrome tips. Among the twelve paint finishes are the exclusive crystal-effect colors Panther black and Sepang blue. S3 badges adorn the rear and the front.

Entirely in black: The interior

The Audi S3 Sedan features an all-black interior, including the standard inlays in matt brushed aluminum. Many of the controls shine in an aluminum-look finish. As in every Audi, operation is simple and the quality uncompromising. The luggage compartment holds 390 liters (13.77 cubic ft).

Great attention to detail documents the sedan’s dynamic character. The dials of the instruments are in an S-specific dark gray metallic finish; the numbers and needles are white. The tachometer features a three-dimensional S3 logo and a boost pressure indicator. A color driver information system with lap timer is standard. The power-retractable monitor (standard with the MMI radio and above) powers up to display a special S3 screen.

A leather-covered sport steering wheel with an S3 badge is also standard in the Audi S3 Sedan. Audi also offers a leather-covered, multifunction sport steering wheel with the rim flattened at the bottom, and shift paddles with aluminum details are available as an option in combination with the S tronic. Other S-specific features are the pedals and footrest of brushed stainless steel as well as the red rings on the start-stop button and on the specially designed gear selector lever. The aluminum door sill trims with S3 badge round out the high-quality and exclusive package.

The front sport seats provide optimum hold and support. The seat cushions can be extended, and S3 logos are embossed in the backrests. The side bolsters come as standard covered in Pearl Nappa leather while the seat center sections are covered in cloth. Combinations of Alcantara and Pearl Nappa leather or Fine Nappa leather with Velvet leather are also available. Contrast stitching provides accents. Audi offers optional S sport seats with integrated head restraints and shoulder inserts with diamond quilting. The two-colour Audi design selection in black/parade red is an exclusive alternative.
by James
 

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