Audi just took the wraps off the first RS3 sedan at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. Featuring the world’s most powerful five-cylinder and multiple award-winning engine of the year, it’s one of the most anticipated entry sports cars in its segment.
We are already familiar with the output figures of the RS3’s powerful five-cylinder engine, having recently driven the new TT RS that packs the exact same engine. 400 hp, 480 Nm of torque, that is what the new RS3 brings to the road. Its top speed is limited at 280 km/h and a 0-100 sprint is done in just 4.1 seconds. That is 0.4 seconds slower than the more compact TT RS.
The renewed 2.5 TFSI is now even more powerful and peak torque is available from the impressively low 1,700 rpm. Audi managed to redesign the engine’s crankcase which is now forged of light-alloy aluminum, shaving off a total weight of 26 kilograms.
Linked to the mighty five-cylinder is Audi’s S-tronic 7-speed dual clutch transmission transmitting power to all four wheels thanks to the standard Quattro all-wheel drive system. The new RS3 comes with Quattro management as standard, which is featured in Audi’s comprehensive drive select dynamic handling system.
Sound from the large dual RS exhaust pipes at the rear is regulated using the valve control button in the mid-console. Just as we experienced with the TT RS, the new 2.5 TFSI is proper loud and can be enjoyed to the fullest by the touch of a button. Further regulating the driving capabilities is the wheel-selective torque control system, an intelligent software add-on of the ESC. It will assist while cornering by braking the inside wheels, thus improving the handling of the RS3. Speaking of braking, optionally customers can opt for carbon ceramic brakes at the front wheels.
Visually the RS3 sedan is more aggressively styled than the S3, with the larger front splitter bearing the Quattro logo. Altogether the RS3 sedan is 20 mm wider than the conventional A3 boosting its dynamic stance. Side air intakes, larger air intakes at the front and a distinctive diffusor insert at the rear further set the RS3 apart from the status quo. RS-specific paint in the colors Nardo grey and Catalunya red are optional.
On the inside passengers and driver are welcomed by a dark-toned all-leather interior with contrasting touches such as the illuminated door sills with RS3 logos as standard. Black fine Nappa leather sport seats with RS embroidery are also standard, while more contoured RS sport seats with integrated head restraints are optional.
On the infotainment side of things all is familiar with Audi’s MMI system fitted as standard including the 7-inch electronically emerging screen from the dashboard. Audi’s virtual cockpit is optional and so is the high-end Bang & Olufsen speaker system. Especially considering our recent experience with the new TT RS and S3 sedan, we can’t wait to have a spin in the new RS3 sedan. The numbers and design sure look promising!
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