The German-based Audi carmaker is preparing its new fleet for an official display at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, which will open its gates on March 3^rd. One of the new models is the long-expected 2021 Audi S3, which has been recently previewed in a couple of photos and details.

Following a series of tests on the track in Germany, the new Audi A3 is almost complete now and ready to be unveiled next month in Geneva, the model coming with new improvements in terms of design and not only. However, just before the big event, a couple of journalists decided to take the sports car out for a spin in Sao Miguel, Portugal.

As we can depict from the media gallery below, the new 2021 Audi A3 will come with new changes around the camouflage areas. For instance, the front is set to be wider and is fitted with new corner vent clusters on the sides. It is also complemented with the carmaker`s latest headlight design.

However, the major change is the car`s more advanced Quattro all-wheel drive system, which provides increased fuel economy or enhances the car`s driving capabilities and speed. The system is fully-variable and features a new multi-place clutch pack. Thanks to that, the engine`s entire power is sent to the rear axle, which is a major change compared with the previous engine, which sent only half of its power to the rear. It also adjusts the distribution towards the front and rear more accurately.

Mechanically, the new 2021 Audi A3 is more advanced, thanks to the new suspension system, which now comes with optional adaptive dampers, providing thus improved response. The handling is also improved, as the car uses a new variable steering setup that works in tandem with a more powerful electric motor. As for the steering ratio, this is positioned right in the centre, providing just 2.5 turns from lock to lock. That lowers the steering weight during low speed, allowing an easy parking. At higher speeds, the steering wheel provides better stance and grip.

All these mechanical characteristics make the 2021 Audi A3 an “all-new model”, as the German based carmaker calls it. It still rides on the VW Group`s MQB platform, with the same width, track and wheelbase. However, as aforementioned, thanks to the more advanced Quattro all-wheel drive system, the car completely changed in terms of driving dynamics.

Underneath the skin, the 2021 Audi A3 also comes with an improved 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, which now churns out 228kW and 400 Nm of torque. This means an increase in torque of around 20 Nm over the current model. The power and torque will be sent to the wheels via a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, as optional.

Prices and full specs will be revealed at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show next month. Until then, please take a closer look at the 2021 Audi A3 while performing some track tests in camouflage, in Sao Miguel, Portugal.