Audi: Is 2006 the year of the S models?

With the introduction of the Audi S8, Audi S6, Audi S4 and maybe even the Audi S3 it looks like 2006 will be the year of Audi's S models.

In 2005, it seemed the ‘RS’ nomenclature at Audi got all the glory, though anyone ready to dismiss Audi’s S-cars should probably hold their tongue. Confirmed news and recent rumors suggest Audi is hot to fully establish the S-car line virtually across their entire range.

S3 – The Littlest S-Car
Though it never came Stateside, the previous S3 nonetheless has a cult following both here and abroad. Its hardware wasn’t much different than a higher-spec A3, but by the end of its run, the S3 shared the 225-hp 1.8T from the Audi TT, along with Avus wheels (like the S4, S6 and S8) and unique body and interior pieces.

Today, a story by the Netherlands-based Autovisie.nl claims that Audi Netherlands has confirmed a replacement to the S3. That new model should debut at September’s Paris Auto show, according to the publication.

Assuming Audi were to build a new S3, it’s safe to expect the typical modern S-car styling cues. The Le Mans Concept-inspired wheels are a likely choice, as is the S-line body kit. Audi’s new gray and chrome S-grille with S3 badge and another badge at the rear would set it off from run-of-the-mill S3s.

The website claimed the S3’s engine would be a 2.0T FSI engine pushing 260 hp and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Where that slots against the 250 hp A3 3.2 remains to be seen.

Another potential power source for the A3 could be the larger displacement 3.6-liter V6 that will first see production this Spring in the Q7. Rumors are that this engine is good for nearly 300 hp when equipped with FSI, giving a little more leg room for a proposed top-end S3.

GermanCarBlog, Audi

Source: Fourtitude

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