The new GT-R has been...
The new GT-R has been a long time coming, but Nissan is stopping grey importers bringing it to the UK. The supercar went on sale in Japan in December for ÷£36,000, and isn’t due here officially until March 2009, priced around ÷£55,000.
Using a modified version...
Using a modified version of the 197bhp 2.0-litre FSI turbo from the VW Golf GTI, the S3 pumps out 265bhp and a storming 350Nm of torque.
As you"d expect, performance is scin÷tillating, with a 0-62mph sprint time of 5.7 seconds and a 155mph top speed - making it nearly as quick as its bigger brother, the V8-engined S4.
To ensure all that power reaches the road, the S3 uses Audi"s quattro perma÷nent four-wheel-drive system, as well as a close-ratio six-speed manual gear÷box with a shortened throw.
Suspension is uprated, too, with stiffer springs and dampers, plus a drop in ride height of 25mm. Larger 18-inch alloys, 225-section tyres and 17-inch front brake discs complete the dynamic improvements over the standard A3.
Audi has also beefed up the styling by adding a chrome grille, low front spoiler and bigger air intakes. There"s a grey diffuser at the rear with oval, chrome tailpipes, while a body-coloured roof spoiler features. Sports seats and aluminium trim distinguish the interior. The S3 is on sale early next year, with prices starting at just under ÷£30,000.