Our mission was to optimise the TFSI engine in this Audi S3, providing multiple power levels to suit different performance preferences. We aimed to create a daily driver that excelled on the road, ensuring daily driver usability with weekend warrior power. This transformation would be achieved through selected hardware upgrades and our world-class BOSCH MED9 ECU tuning alongside TVS TCU tuning.

We felt confident in achieving the desired results by leaning on Nortech Performance for hardware engineering solutions, our partners TVS Engineering for their mastery of the DSG gearbox tuning and conversions, as well as Garrett Motion for the unparalleled quality they offer through their intercooler solutions. In terms of tuning working with NickK was invaluable for his extensive experience in ECU calibration, especially with this platform. Leveraging our connections, expertise and advanced tuning capabilities, we set out to elevate the vehicle’s performance and drivability to meet the highest standards.

The fuel system for the PQ35 platform requires significant upgrades when aiming for big power. Innovative thinking is essential when working with the factory Direct Injection (DI) system. While adding port injection with an aluminium intake manifold is an option, it introduces complexity and suffers from intake heat soak in traffic. Instead, we retained the stock plastic intake manifold with DI and the factory ECU, an efficient solution that maintains drivability and reliability. This comprehensive fuel system upgrade supports the high power output while ensuring reliability and consistent performance under demanding conditions. The Nortech Performance fuel system includes:

• Brushless Fuel Pump and Controller: Integrated into an OE-type basket
  
• Extra Lift Pump: Ensures the basket remains full of fuel under extreme conditions
  
• Billet Lid with -08 Fittings: Allows for external, serviceable in-line fuel filter
  
• Billet HPFP Adaptor: Maximum efficiency by maintaining a -08 line from fuel tank to engine

With almost 20 years of expertise calibrating the Bosch MED9 ECU, we were well-equipped to take this S3's performance to the next level while utilising the factory Direct Injection system. Our comprehensive ECU calibration process involved meticulous adjustments to various engine parameters to optimise power delivery, reliability and overall drivability, using high-speed data acquisition and decades of experience. Our calibration of the fuel delivery, ignition timing and air flow strategies allowed us to provide the desired power levels across different boost settings, ensuring flexibility and performance.

Maintaining excellent driveability with good cold start and warm-up characteristics was a key focus. This ensures the car remains adaptable and easy to drive in all conditions. The improved efficiency of the fuel, intercooler, and breather systems allowed us to optimise the calibration for impressive power outputs while maintaining reliability. The NickK calibration brings it all together, delivering smiles whether you're cruising down the boulevard or racing up the strip.

We consider this Audi 8P S3 to be at the limit of what is possible for this platform while running pump fuel and maintaining street-friendly characteristics. The current setup achieves impressive performance without compromising drivability, making it a superb daily driver.

While we can push the power to over 900hp with different injection, a larger turbo, and ethanol, this shifts the car away from its pleasant street manners and towards a more race-oriented vehicle. Such modifications would sacrifice the usability and comfort.

If a race car is what's required, and driving comfort is not a consideration, then there is always more power and speed available. Based on our experience, we believe this particular S3 represents the pinnacle of what is possible with regards to performance, while still maintaining the comforts of a daily driven vehicle.