The new Audi RS 3 Sportback completes the Ingolstadt premium automaker’s sporty vanguard in the compact segment. The RS 3 Sportback will make its entry at the Geneva International Motor Show.
“The RS 3 Sportback offers our customers an attractive introduction to the RS world,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “Since 2011 the sporty compact model has proved itself extremely successful on the market. And with the new five-cylinder engine, the RS 3 Sportback is at the head of its class and continuing that strong track record.”
From 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.1 seconds
Behind the impressive performance of the car is the world’s most powerful production five-cylinder engine – the 2.5 TFSI. It delivers 294 kW (400 hp) of output. That is 33 hp more than the predecessor engine. And is 26 kilograms lighter thanks to its aluminum crankcase. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm is available at engine speeds as low as 1,700 rpm and remains constant up to 5,850 rpm. The RS 3 Sportback is able to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. On request, Audi will increase the electronically limited top speed from 250 km/h to 280 km/h.
quattro drive with variable distribution of power
The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro drive transfer the power of the five cylinders to the road. The electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch distributes the drive torque variably between the axles. quattro management is integrated as a standard feature. Also standard are the steering, S tronic, the engine management, the adjustable exhaust flaps.
Wider track and sporty suspension setup
The RS 3 Sportback combines fascinating dynamism with superior stability. As standard, Audi includes 19-inch cast wheels and 235/35 tires. Brake disks are with a diameter of 310 millimeters. Customers will be able to choose carbon-fiber ceramic disks in front.
Sporty interior and outstanding comfort
The RS 3 Sportback has with sport seats in black fine Nappa leather as standard. RS emblems are emblazoned on the seatbacks. The RS sport leather steering wheel is flat-bottomed and features buttons for operating the infotainment system. The main control element is the rotary/push-button control on the console of the center tunnel.
Online with Audi connect
An LTE module brings the Audi connect services on board. It also displays information on fuel prices, weather, travel and traffic. The Audi MMI connect app lets users transfer their smartphone calendars into the MMI system. Drivers can also send destinations from Google Maps and special destinations to the navigation system. They can stream music from the internet. Apple Car Play and Android Auto immediately bring selected apps to the onboard screen. In addition, the navigation system includes a Wi-Fi hotspot that enables passengers to connect their mobile devices to the internet.
Other highlights include the Audi phone box, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 705 watts of power, and many driver assistance systems. In slow-moving traffic the traffic jam assist keeps the car at a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It can briefly take over the steering. Also new in the car are the emergency assist and cross traffic assist rear. The latter system looks out for crossing vehicles when the driver is pulling out of a parking space.
Market launch and prices for the Audi RS 3 Sportback
Orders for the RS 3 Sportback and the RS 3 Sedan will start in Europe from April 2017. The market launch will follow in August 2017. The base price for the Audi RS 3 Sportback is 54,600 euros. Audi RS 3 Sedan is listed at 55,900 euros.
