Audi’s Iconic Five-Cylinder Engine Bids Farewell with the Updated RS3
After 48 years in production, Audi’s iconic five-cylinder engine will make its final appearance in the updated RS3. The 2.5 TFSI engine, which also powers the RS Q3, continues to deliver the same impressive 394bhp as its predecessor. The upgraded RS3 is set to arrive next month, following the wide-reaching refresh of the A3 earlier this year.
Sportier Appearance and Enhanced Interior
The updated RS3 will be available in Sportback and Saloon bodystyles, and it features several notable design updates. The front end receives a new splitter, while the front and rear LED signatures now showcase a chequered design. The side air intakes have been redesigned, and carbon detailing has been added, giving the RS3 a more aggressive and sportier appearance compared to its predecessor.
Inside the cabin, Audi has fitted new RS bucket seats upholstered in Nappa leather. The steering wheel is flat-top and flat-bottomed, and it now features haptic buttons instead of physical controls. The air vents have been redesigned, and the automatic gearbox gets a smaller gear selector. However, the physical climate controls remain unchanged.
Upgraded Chassis Controls for Enhanced Performance
Audi has also made significant upgrades to the RS3’s chassis controls, resulting in improved performance and stability during cornering. The tuning of key components, such as brake torque vectoring, reduces understeer when entering a corner and allows for greater power utilization through and out of bends. For those seeking even more grip on the track, Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks can be selected as an option.
Unchanged Performance and Pricing
Despite the updates, the RS3 maintains the same performance as its predecessor, with a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. Power is sent to all four wheels through the seven-speed double-clutch transmission. In the UK, prices for the RS3 start at £59,510 for the Sportback and £60,510 for the Saloon. Three trim levels are offered, and the top trim, Carbon Vorsprung, increases the top speed from 155mph to 174mph. Deliveries are scheduled to begin next month.
The End of an Era for Audi’s Most Popular Audi Sport Model
The RS3 has been Audi’s most popular Audi Sport model, with sales reaching 80,000 units since its launch in 2011. Such was the demand for the RS3 that it was temporarily taken off sale last year due to supply constraints. Now, as the updated RS3 bids farewell to the iconic five-cylinder engine, Audi enthusiasts and fans of the RS3 can look forward to experiencing its impressive performance and sportier appearance.
