AUDI says its new RS 3 offers an outstanding experience and an unrivalled performance in its compact sports car class.
Power for the Sportback and Saloon models comes from a five-cylinder, 2.5-litre engine that develops a whopping 400PS and 500Nm of torque.
Mated to a slick seven-speed automatic transmission, the premium German marque’s machine is propelled to 62mph in just 3.8 seconds. Opt for the RS Dynamic package along with ceramic brakes and you can redline the car at 180mph.
Otherwise, Launch Edition and Vorsprung models have a top speed of 174mph, while the standard RS 3 and Carbon version are limited to 155mph.
Adding to the thrills are the powertrain’s “highly intoxicating sound”, a special electronic RS Torque Splitter for the rear wheels and new RS 3 driving modes for even greater agility.
The modes allow for drifting and racetrack use, along with the more everyday driving profiles.
The braking and suspension systems have also been uprated and there is a new electronic vehicle dynamics controller to optimise agility.
Visually, the new RS 3 demonstrates its sporty DNA with a widened body, flared wheel arches, optional RS sports exhaust system and cockpit displays that echo those found in race cars.
A 12.3in digital display and 10.1in central touchscreen provide all kinds of performance information, and there’s a flat-bottomed, multi-function steering wheel with zinc shift paddles.
Prices start at £50,900 for the Sportback and £1000 more for the Saloon, with orders beginning next month and first customer deliveries at the end of the year.
Audi Sport GmbH boss Sebastian Grams said of the newcomers: “We now offer premium sports cars that are suitable for everyday use and equally thrilling to drive on race tracks.
“The RS 3 Sportback and Saloon represent the ultimate in outstanding performance in the compact segment.”
