FROM 0 to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds, up to 290km/h top speed, an RS torque splitter, semi slick rubber, and specific RS driving modes. The new Audi RS 3 offers driving dynamics of the highest calibre and the best numbers in its segment.
Equipped with a 294kW five-cylinder, the high-performance engine delivers rapid acceleration with a highly intoxicating sound. The power unit offers 500Nm of torque and responds faster than ever.
A new engine control unit also increases the speed at which all of the drive components communicate with each other, while a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission puts the power to the pavement.
For the first time, the RS sports exhaust system features a fully variable flap control system that supports intermediate positions, thus broadening the sound characteristics even further. It can be adjusted via the driving dynamics system Audi drive select.
The new Audi RS 3 is the first Audi model that comes standard-equipped with a torque splitter as well. It replaces the rear axle differential and the previous multiple disc clutch package on the rear axle.
Instead, an electronically controlled multiple disc clutch is used on each of the drive shafts. This ensures that the right amount of torque is optimally distributed along the rear axle.
During more dynamic driving, the torque splitter increases the drive torque to the respective outer rear wheel with the higher wheel load, which significantly reduces the tendency to understeer.
In left-hand curves, it transmits the drive torque to the right rear wheel, in right-hand curves to the left rear wheel, and when driving straight ahead to both wheels. The new technology also makes controlled drifts on closed-off tracks possible.
“With the third generation of the Audi RS 3 Sportback and the second generation of the Audi RS 3 Sedan, we now offer premium sports cars that are suitable for everyday use and equally thrilling to drive on public roads and racetracks,” Audi Sport managing director Sebastian Grams said.
“They represent the entry point into our RS world and, thanks to the torque splitter, the ultimate in outstanding performance in the compact segment.”
The design of the new Audi RS 3 is even more dynamic and powerful than that of its predecessor. In the front, the wide RS bumper, the redesigned Singleframe with its distinctive honeycomb grille, and the large air intakes give an expressive appearance.
The RS 3 comes standard-equipped with flat, wedge-shaped LED headlights and LED taillights including dynamic turn signal lights. Matrix LED headlights are available as an option, with darkened bezels that feature digital daytime running lights.
The new models can also be had in two exclusive RS colours; Kyalami green and Kemora Grey. The roof of the sedan can also be ordered in the contrasting colour Brilliant Black for the first time. Individual exterior features can also be chosen in matte or gloss.
Inside, many elements specific to the RS accentuate its sportiness. The displays appear in the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus, which comes standard. It displays the rpms in the form of a bar graph and shows power and torque as percentages.
Optionally, the rpm display is available in the new ‘RS Runway’ design. In this case, the values are displayed in the opposite direction in a manner that visually resembles an airplane runway, with the highest speed in the foreground.
The RS-specific blinking shift indicator in manual transmission mode changes the rpm display from green to yellow to red, blinking in a manner identical to that used in motor sports, to indicate the ideal time to change gears.
The 10.1-inch touch display includes what is referred to as the ‘RS Monitor’, which displays the coolant, engine, and transmission oil temperatures as well as tire pressures.
Also available for the first time for the Audi RS 3 is a head-up display that projects relevant information onto the windshield in the driver’s direct line of sight in addition to the shift light indicator.
The genuine racing feeling is further enhanced by the carbon-fibre instrument panel and RS sport seats with embossing and anthracite contrast stitching. The seat upholstery is optionally available in fine Nappa leather, with RS honeycomb stitching.
Contrast stitching is available in glossy black, red, or, for the first time, green contrast stitching. RS Design packages in red and green are available to match, including special floor mats and seatbelts with coloured edges.
The RS 3 is standard-equipped with a three spoke RS Sport multifunctional leather steering wheel with a flattened bottom. It features built-in, high-quality die-cast zinc shift paddles.
Those who opt for the Design package get, in addition to the RS badge, a 12 o’clock stripe for faster indication of the steering wheel position during dynamic driving. Alternatively, a round RS steering wheel is available with hands-on detection.
Both have the new RS Mode button on the right-hand steering wheel spoke in common. This button can be used to select the Audi drive select modes; RS Performance, RS Individual, or the last mode used.
The new Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 sedan are expected to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2022. Further information on pricing and specification details will be announced closer to launch.
