RS Performance

The new RS3, the top model in Audi's A3 series, is powered by the same engine found in the TT RS, which was named Engine of the Year in the 2,000-2,500cc category for 2010. This 2,480cc, five-cylinder TSFI engine with an intercooler and turbocharger operating at 1.2 bar boost pressure produces a maximum output of 250kW (340ps) at 5,400-6,500rpm and a peak torque of 450Nm (45.9kgm) at 1,600-5,300rpm. These figures are on par with those of the TT RS, the most powerful TT model.the most powerful TT model, the "TT-RS"

This five-cylinder turbo unit from Audi, with its distinctive sound reminiscent of the Quattro that dominated rally stages, fires in the sequence 1-2-4-5-3 every 144 degrees of crankshaft rotation. It features a long stroke with bore and stroke dimensions of 82.5 x 92.8mm. Mounted transversely at the front, the engine measures a compact 494mm in length and weighs a mere 183kg.



The abundant power is delivered to all four wheels via the 7-speed S tronic transmission. The 7th gear of the S tronic, which offers both manual and automatic modes, is set to a relatively high ratio, contributing to improved fuel economy. Performance figures include a 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.6 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h in accordance with the German gentlemen's agreement. Environmental performance is also commendable, with fuel consumption rated at 9.1L/100km (approximately 11km/L) and CO2 emissions at 212g/km.

The body dimensions are 4,300mm in length, 1,790mm in width, and 1,400mm in height, with a total vehicle weight of 1,575kg. The drag coefficient (Cd) is stated as 0.36, and the frontal projected area is 2.16 square meters, resulting in a CdA value of 0.776, suggesting that aerodynamic resistance is not particularly optimized. Luggage capacity is 302 liters normally, expanding to 1,032 liters when the rear seats are folded.

The suspension features MacPherson struts at the front and a four-link setup at the rear. Tire sizes are 235/35 for the front and 225/35 for the rear. The brakes have also been upgraded, with large 370mm ventilated discs at the front and 310mm at the rear.

While there has been no announcement regarding the introduction of this RS3 to Japan, its price in Europe starts at 49,900 Euros. Given that the TT RS, equipped with the same engine, is priced at 56,750 Euros in Europe and 8.63 million Yen in Japan, it is anticipated that the RS3, if introduced, would carry a price tag in the high 7 million Yen range.

Audi RS3 Sportback
Body: Length 4,302mm x Width 1,794mm x Height 1,402mm
Wheelbase: 2,578mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,575kg
Engine: 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder DOHC turbo
Max Output: 250kW (340ps) / 5,400-6,500rpm
Max Torque: 450Nm (45.9kgm) / 1,600-5,300rpm
Transmission: 7-speed S tronic
10-15 Mode Fuel Economy: 11km/L
CO2 Emissions: 212g/km
Drivetrain: 4WD
Price: 49,900 Euros