The new Audi RS 3 Sportback expands the sporty lineup, sitting at the very pinnacle of the Ingolstadt-based premium manufacturer’s compact portfolio and offering customers an attractive entry into the RS world. Following the world premiere of the RS 3 Sedan at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the RS 3 Sportback now stands poised to make its entry at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show. With the most powerful production five-cylinder in the world, outstanding dynamism and an even sharper look, the car offers an emotional driving experience.
In the new Audi RS 3 Sportback, the 2.5 TFSI delivers 294 kW (400 hp), which is 33 hp more than the previous unit. This is thanks, among other things, to its aluminum crankcase being 26 kilograms (57.3 lb) lighter. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available at engine speeds as low as 1,700 rpm and remains constant up to 5,850 rpm. That’s how the RS 3 Sportback is able to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 4.1 seconds. On request, Audi can increase the electronically limited top speed from 250 km/h (155.3 mph) to 280 km/h (174.0 mph). The effect of this extraordinary tractive power is intensified by the five-cylinder’s unmistakable sound. This comes from having the ignition alternate between directly adjacent cylinders and widely spaced ones.
For better mixture preparation, the new 2.5 TFSI engine employs dual injection into the intake manifold and into the combustion chambers. On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system controls the duration of valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed – for moderate fuel consumption at low and partial load as well as more spontaneous throttle response and a high level of tractive power at full load. In the NEDC, the RS 3 Sportback uses 8.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (28.3 US mpg), which equates to 189 grams of CO2 per kilometer (304.2 g/mi).
The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer the power of the five cylinders to the road. Meanwhile, the electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch distributes the drive torque variably between the axles. The sportier the driving, the faster and more often will a large share of the torque reach the rear axle. The quattro management is integrated as a standard feature in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, as are the steering, S tronic, the engine management, the adjustable exhaust flaps, and the optional RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control. The driver can individually vary the operation of these components between the comfort, auto, dynamic and individual modes. Handling is perfected through the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) with wheel-selective torque control and the sport mode specially tuned for the RS. On the exterior, the RS 3 Sportback shows off its power in the form of a striking Singleframe with a gloss black honeycomb grill, large air inlets and angular sill trims. The redesigned blade in the bumper gives the front end an even wider look. At its ends it forms narrow, upright funnels. LED headlights with their distinctive lighting signature are standard, and Audi offers matrix LED headlights as an option. In the rear, a stylish RS roof edge spoiler, a diffuser insert and the RS exhaust system’s large oval tailpipes are sure to turn heads everywhere. A quattro logo at the bottom of the Singleframe is a finishing touch to the dynamic appearance, as are the RS 3 emblems on the honeycomb grill and the tailgate.
The two circular instrument dials are black with red needles and white scales. The centrally positioned driver information system includes a boost pressure indicator, an oil thermometer and a lap timer. The fully digital Audi virtual cockpit displays the infotainment system data and is available as an option. A specialRS screen shifts the rev counter to the center.
The RS multi-function sport leather steering wheel has a flattened bottom section and, besides the shift paddles, it features buttons for operating the infotainment system. The RS 3 Sportback is equipped with sport seats in black fine nappa leather as standard. RS sport seats with more contoured profiles and integrated head restraints for the driver and front passenger are available as options. RS emblems adorn the seat backs of both seating variants.
Audi RS 3 Sportback
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.4 – 8.3 (28.0 – 28.3 US mpg)
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 192 – 189 (309.0 – 304.2 g/mi)
(Figures vary depending on engine/transmission/wheels/tires)
