THE OFF-BEAT THRUM of Audi’s five-cylinder engine is the soundtrack that sets Audi-lovers’ hearts beating faster, so they’ll be pleased to learn that the much-anticipated RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 sedan are set to return to showroom floors.
The visceral performance of the Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan is defined by the iconic Audi 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, with heritage that dates back to the legendary Sport quattro S1 Group B rally car of the early 1980s.The distinctive engine note is a result of the 1-2-4-5-3 firing order, amplified through the standard RS exhaust system with baffles in the rear muffler that can be activated using Audi drive select.
“The Audi RS 3 is a contemporary performance car icon and we’re delighted to have it back in our line-up,” said Paul Sansom, Managing Director of Audi Australia.
“The RS 3 has proven its immense popularity consistently throughout this generation, and we’re aware that many enthusiasts have been keenly awaiting its return. We look forward to meeting demand for this special vehicle, once again.”
The RS 3 had been absent from the Australian line-up for around 18 months due to delays brought about by the implementation of new WLTP homologation rules in Europe.
The RS 3 develops 294kW and 480Nm from its 2480cc capacity, and includes advanced technology such as an aluminium crankcase, dual injection, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) and a high-pressure 1.35 bar (19.6psi) turbocharger.
The RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan offer exceptional performance and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, returning 8.5L/100km. CO2 emissions are 195 grams per km for the RS 3 Sportback and 194 grams for the RS 3 Sedan.
The distinct exterior design of the RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan creates an even more aggressive stance. At the front, the ‘quattro’ logo sits beneath a clean, modern Singleframe grille to bring its sport stature to, while larger intakes feed more air to satisfy the cooling demands of the machinery that sits behind them. The thin, precise slivers of light projected by the LED headlights and taillights complement the car’s progressive overall design, complete with metallic paint as standard.
The Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan utilize a seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission, delivering lightning-fast shifts. The tuning of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is fully integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, where the torque delivery is distributed quickly and precisely via an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch. The RS-tuned calibration automatically sends more drive to the rear wheels during dynamic driving, to ensure ideal cornering balance.
The Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan features RS sport suspension and Audi magnetic ride as standard. In dynamic mode, the Audi magnetic ride resists braking and cornering forces on the car’s attitude, heightening its agile and responsive handling.
Black eight-piston brake calipers clamp 370mm ventilated rotors at the front of the RS 3, with 310mm discs at the rear, providing powerful stopping performance inside 19-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped in 235/35 tyres (standard).
The RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan bring a host of advanced driver assistance safety systems as standard, including side assist, active lane assist, adaptive cruise control (with Stop&Go) and rear cross traffic assist. The Audi A3 Sportback range has been awarded a 5-star safety rating by the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).
One of the most attractive aspects of the RS 3 Sportback is the extraordinary list of standard equipment that is offered, in addition to the outstanding level of performance. Key highlights include:
- LED headlights with high beam assist
- Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch digital display and specific RS functions
- MMI Navigation plus with 7-inch MMI Touch
- RS sport front seats in fine Nappa leather upholstery
- Bang & Olufsen sound system, 14 speakers including a subwoofer (705W)
- Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist
- Audi phone box light (wireless charging)
- DAB+ digital radio
- Audi parking system plus with rear view camera
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
In addition, the RS 3 will offer an exclusive Carbon edition for $3400, equipped with a range of styling elements to enhance its sporty characteristics with a black gloss finish. Highlights include, carbon fibre mirror housings, panoramic glass sunroof, gloss black styling package with Audi rings and logos in gloss black, 19-inch Audi Sport wheels in gloss anthracite black, privacy glass and inlays in carbon twill.
The Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan are on-sale now, offered with a choice of two comprehensive Audi service plan packages: three years priced at $2320 or a five-year service plan priced at $3420.
The RS 3 Sedan and RS 3 Sportback are available to purchase through the new Audi online purchase platform.
Pricing (all plus on road costs)
| RS 3 Sportback | 294kW | $83,800 |
| RS 3 Sedan | 294kW | $86,500 |
| RS 3 Sportback Carbon edition | 294kW | $87,200 |
| RS 3 Sedan Carbon edition | 294kW | $89,900 |
Once we have tested and assessed the new Audi RS 3, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.