Audi S3 Saloon 2006 - Present

The most recent incarnation of the Audi S3 presents something of a Jekyll and Hyde drive when you fire her up for a drive. An extremely handsome car the S3 is based on the A3 body, which has been with us for a few years now. The addition of front and rear spoilers are the only hints of what lies within.

For the S3 Audi have used the excellent all wheel drive Quattro system, and with the savage power delivery afforded under the drivers right foot it's really quite necessary that the power is effectively channelled. The 265 bhp powerplant will go from rest to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and with torque of 258 lf ft available from 2500 to 5000 revs you'd expect good power right through the rev range but in truth power below that magical 2500 rev band is pretty lacklustre so when it kicks in it does so with all the delicacy of a mule. Were it not for the great all wheel drive Quattro system S3 drivers would find themselves snaking around the street every time they put their foot down; as it is they will just be roaring up behind the person in front of them on the road. The turbo lag means that when you put your foot down there's a moment wondering what you're waiting for, and then manic propulsion forward which does take a bit of getting used to.

The suspension and handling are very impressive and you'll find yourself driving with what feels like a laser guided steering wheel. The steering offers limited feel, which is something of a shame as the way the S3 performs you want to get more involved in the actual drive, but the remoteness of the steering puts an unnecessary distance between you and the thrill of the road. The lunatic engine feels like a tiger that needs to be tamed and the lack of feel from the steering almost make it feel like someone else has broken your horse for you. Although on first outings frankly the help is most welcome.

Sitting in the S3 is a reminder of Audi's policy of using the best materials available when fitting out their cars. The seats are firm and supportive, although on bumpy roads you're constantly reminded quite how firm the suspension is. Climate control is standard as are the electric windows. Being only available as a three door model is likely to put off any family, although with the way the car performs it's really a bit too unruly to be considered for the school run. The boot space is somewhat cramped and the only way to get a lot of luggage in is to use some of the rear seat space.

The S3 is a great looking car, with somewhat understated looks, it's certainly a lot more feisty than it looks and there's no bad thing with that but for such a refined car you have to feel it could do with a bit more refinement.

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