Audi’s potent RS 3 Sportback is about to go on-sale in Europe, so expect an Australian launch later this year.
With its 2.5-litre, turbocharged, five-cylinder petrol engine delivering 250kW/450Nm and driving through a seven-speed S tronic transmission plus Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, the RS 3 Sportback is destined for ‘Supercar’ status.
As you would expect, performance is blistering – zero to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds. Fuel economy is impressively low at 9.1l/100kms – helped by a delivery-on-demand oil pump and energy recuperation.
Noise is impressive too – the Audi RS 3 Sportback comes with a ‘Sport’ button on the center console which, when activated, actuates an exhaust flap for punchier performance and a sportier exhaust ‘growl’.
To keep weight down, the Audi RS 3 Sportback runs flared fenders made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). There are also aerodynamic front and rear aprons, plus a large roof spoiler.
Sports suspension reduces the ride height by 25mm compared to a standard A3 and 19-inch wheels run 235/35 tyres.
Inside the RS 3 Sportback features the usual array of Audi luxury and sports features including sports seats with Nappa leather, the flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a new ‘Aluminium Race’ trim finish.
