Audi's Hot Hatch, the RS 3 Sportback, Launches in Japan | Audi

Audi RS3 Sportback | Audi RS3 Sportback

Audi's hot hatch "RS3 Sportback" introduced in Japan

Audi Japan is introducing the most extreme sports model based on the latest "A3 Sportback," the "RS3 Sportback," for the first time in Japan. Sales will begin nationwide on October 20 (Tuesday).

Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)

0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds: The 5-door hatchback

Audi's 5-door hatchback model,A3 Sportbackbased on the "A3 Sportback," has been engineered by the company's motorsport division, quattro GmbH. The model,RS3 Sportbackhas finally landed in Japan, seven months after its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The RS3 Sportback, introduced for the first time in Japan, is powered by a 2.5-liter direct-injection turbocharged (TFSI) inline-five engine, the same as the previous generation sold in Europe. It produces a maximum output of 370 kW (367 ps) and a maximum torque of 465 Nm (47.4 kgm), accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. In line with Audi's RS line tradition, it features Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system.

While boasting high power, this engine also incorporates an energy recuperation system, a start-stop system that operates before the vehicle comes to a complete stop, and an on-demand oil pump, achieving a fuel economy of 13.1 km/ℓ in the JC08 mode.

The transmission is a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch system. Like other models, it offers automatic modes D and S, paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, and for the RS3 Sportback, a launch control system.

The 4WD system uses a hydraulic clutch and is electronically controlled to provide optimal traction, with torque distribution ranging from 50:50 front to rear, to 0:100 front to rear. For torque distribution between the left and right wheels, the electronic differential lock "torque vectoring" is employed. During high-speed cornering, it lightly brakes the inner wheel while distributing more torque to the outer wheel, enhancing the vehicle's agility.

Audi RS3 Sportback | Audi RS3 Sportback

Audi's hot hatch "RS3 Sportback" introduced in Japan (2)

Exterior and interior also feature sporty design elements

The low-slung body is 25mm lower than the standard A3 Sportback, with the track widened by 25mm at the front and 10mm at the rear. The suspension has also been specially reinforced. The wheels are 19-inch forged aluminum, fitted with 235/35 tires. Visible behind them are 370mm front and 310mm rear brake discs, with standard black calipers or optional red calipers with RS logos and 8 pistons.

As befits a special model within the A3 family, the front singleframe grille features a unique design, composed of a glossy honeycomb-patterned black grille with a matte aluminum-look frame. At the rear, a large roof spoiler, honeycomb-patterned diffuser insert, and oval tailpipes on both sides add to the sporty aesthetic.

The interior is finished in black, featuring exclusive Nappa leather sport seats with rock grey stitching, a dedicated leather steering wheel, and a unique shift lever.

The price of the new Audi RS3 Sportback is 7.56 million yen. The Japanese specification is right-hand drive only.

With the introduction of this RS3 Sportback, the A3 family now offers a wide range of models, from eco-cars to high-performance vehicles, including the existing A3 Sportback, S3, and the plug-in hybrid "A3 Sportback e-tron" which was announced for release within the year.