Audi RS3 Sportback Highlights
Engine
high-torque 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder turbo engine with 294 kW (400 PS) and 500 Nm of torque (+20 Nm and better progression compared to predecessor); expanded power range (400 PS at 5,600 – 7,000 rpm), steeper power curve
acceleration: 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (0.3 seconds faster than its predecessor) = best in class
top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited), optionally 280 km/h, 290 km/h with RS dynamics package plus = best in class
unmistakable and emotional engine sound due to characteristic 1‑2‑4‑5‑3; firing order; fully variable exhaust flap control for wide-ranging sound characteristics
Increased efficiency: introduction of efficiency mode and coasting at idle with engine on
Transmission
7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission with short shifting times, sporty gear ratios, and Launch Control
quattro all-wheel drive with RS torque splitter: drive torque is actively and variably distributed between the rear wheels for maximum agility and stability; RS torque splitter reduces tendency to understeer during dynamic cornering
Chassis and body
body lowered by 25 millimeters compared with A3, by ten millimeters compared with S3
curb weight without driver: RS 3 Sportback1,570 kg; RS 3 Sedan 1,575 kg
increased lateral control, precise steering response and enhanced lateral dynamics:
Front: McPherson strut axle with RS 3-specific pivot bearings for just under one degree more negative wheel camber compared with the A3; stiffened wishbones; subframe, and stabilizer
Rear: Four-link design with separate spring/shock absorber arrangement, subframe and RS-specific tubular stabilizer with higher spring rate for optimum performance; approx. half a degree more negative wheel camber compared with A3; stiffened wheel carriers.
standard RS sports suspension with newly developed shock absorbers and valve system specific to RS 3; optional RS sports suspension with adaptive damper control
semi-slick tires available factory-mounted for the first time
progressive steering with a variable ratio depending on the steering angle
two new RS 3-specific drive modes: RS Performance and RS Torque Rear, for a total of seven Audi drive select modes (efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic, RS Individual)
central vehicle dynamics controller synchronizes RS torque splitter, adaptive dampers and wheel-selective torque control for precise steering and handling
Brakes
newly developed steel brake system measuring 375 by 36 millimeters at the front and 310 by 22 millimeters at the rear, larger and more stable than in the predecessor model
new air control elements reduce brake cooling time by 20 percent
less wear due to copper-free brake pads that are 15 percent larger
optional ceramic brake system measuring 380 by 38 millimeters at the front that is ten kilograms lighter than steel brake system and features higher thermal stability
