The third generation of the Audi RS 3 Sportback is back with the deadly 2,5 TFSI five-cylinder that is popping out 294kW and 500Nm with a broad powerband that enables a sprinting time of only 3,8 seconds to 100km/h, which is a serious supercar territory.
By Rubin van Niekerk
Having a five-cylinder, high-performance engine, the Audi RS 3 is one-of-a-kind in its segment. The 2,5 TFSI has won the “International Engine of the Year” award nine times in a row. In the latest generation of the compact sports car, the engine is now more powerful than ever before. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h but can be optionally increased to 290km/h (if the RS Dynamic package Plus is selected) – just like acceleration. This is an unmatched figure in the compact segment. Fuel consumption was reasonable
at 11,2 per 100 kilometres on average. If you enjoy the engine’s acoustics, a fully variable flap control system broadens the sound characteristics even further.
The RS torque splitter, installed for the first time in an Audi, makes the driving experience even more exhilarating and provides a dynamic balance. During dynamic driving, the torque splitter increases torque delivered to the outer rear wheel with the higher wheel load, which significantly reduces understeer, so it handles cornering at high speeds far better.
Standard Matrix LED headlights with darkened bezels feature digital daytime running lights around their outer downturned angles. A virtual cockpit plus displays the revolutions per minute in the “RS Runway” design. In this case, the values are displayed in the opposite direction in a manner that visually resembles an aeroplane runway – the highest number of revolutions in the foreground and the lowest in the background. In addition, the Audi virtual cockpit plus includes displays for g-forces, lap times, and acceleration from 0 – 100km/h, 0 – 200km/h, quarter mile, and eighth of a mile.
Carbon-fibre trim in the instrument panel and RS sport seats with RS embossing and anthracite contrast stitching is hot, but seat upholstery is optionally available in fine Nappa leather with RS honey, but comb stitching and glossy black, red, or, for the first time, green contrast stitching.
The Audi RS 3 model range is highly equipped with ideal specifications and features which proudly showcase its performance, digital and design points. An impressive Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D sound and an Audi smartphone interface are some of the special features.
It comes standard with a five-year Audi Freeway Plan. Pricing of R1 215 000 includes a 5-year Audi Freeway Plan with Roadside Assistance.
