The RS 3 will be unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show. The sporty hatchback hits 100 kilometres per hour in 4.1 seconds.
Audi
Audi is unveiling the new Audi RS 3 Sportback at the Geneva International Motor Show. Grabbing the attention is the new five-cylinder engine, currently the most powerful production five-cylinder in the world according to Audi. It delivers 294 kW (400 hp), 24 kW (33 hp) more than the predecessor engine, and is 26 kg lighter thanks to its aluminium crankcase. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm should kick in at engine speeds as low as 1,700 rpm and remain constant up to 5,850 rpm. This enables the RS 3 Sportback to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the RS 3 Sportback consumes 8.3 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, which equates to 189 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
quattro drive with variable distribution of power
The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer the power of the five cylinders to the road. quattro management is integrated as a standard feature in the dynamic handling system Audi drive select, as are the steering, S tronic, the engine management and the adjustable exhaust flaps. The driver can individually vary the operation of these components between three modes.
Together with progressive steering, the four-link rear axle, and the tight suspension set-up lowered by 25 millimetres relative to the A3, the RS 3 Sportback is meant to combine dynamism with stability. Compared to the A3 production model, the track at the front axle is wider by 20 millimetres, and the wheel arches are accordingly flared wider. On the exterior, the RS 3 Sportback shows off its power in the form of a striking Singleframe with a gloss black honeycomb grille, large air inlets and angular sill trims. The redesigned blade in the bumper gives the front end an even wider look.
Connectivity and driver assistance
When it comes to infotainment, the RS 3 Sportback is versatile. An LTE module brings the Audi Connect services on board, including navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View, as well as information on fuel prices, weather, travel and traffic. The Audi MMI Connect app lets users transfer their smartphone calendars into the MMI system.
The RS is also equipped with many driver assistance systems. The traffic jam assist keeps the car at a safe distance from the vehicle in front in slow-moving traffic up to a speed of 65 km/h and can briefly take over the steering. Also new in the Audi RS 3 Sportback are the emergency braking assistant, which automatically stops the car if required, and the rear cross-traffic assist. It looks out for crossing vehicles when the driver is pulling out of a parking space.