Audi’s signature five-cylinder engine will bow out with the updated RS3 after 48 years in production.
Making the same 394bhp as in the previous RS3, the 2.5 TFSI is the only five-pot still in mainstream use. It also powers the higher-riding RS Q3.
The upgraded RS3 will arrive next month and follows the A3, which received a wide-reaching refresh earlier this year.
Available in Sportback and Saloon bodystyles, the updated RS3 gains a new splitter at the front. This is joined by fresh front and rear LED signatures (with a chequered design), redesigned side air intakes and carbon detailing. In all, Audi says this gives the RS3 a more sportier appearance over its predecessor.
Inside, new RS bucket seats clad in Nappa leather, and a flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel – now with haptic buttons replacing physical controls – have been fitted. Other changes are subtle and mirror the A3, such as redesigned air vents and a smaller gear selector for the automatic ’box. Physical climate controls remain.
Underneath, the RS3’s chassis controls have been upgraded, making it quicker and more stable when cornering, says Audi.
The tuning of key components – such as to its brake torque vectoring – means understeer is reduced when entering a corner and more power can be used both through and out of bends.
Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks can be optioned for owners wanting even more grip on track.
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S and Volkswagen Golf R rival offers the same performance as its predecessor with its 0-62mph time remaining at 3.8sec.
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The new Audi RS3 looks incredible, and anyone investing in such a high-performance ride should also consider their coverage carefully. Before hitting the road, I checked my policy and even called the 21st Century Insurance phone number to clarify how performance upgrades might affect my premiums. With cars like this, it’s amazing to read real experiences from other drivers to see how their claims and insurance handled similar models—it really gives peace of mind.
A complete dinosaur. Wait for the EV version and don't waste your money on yesterday's tech.
Absolute legend of a car and engine too for that matter. And 59k seems a bargain for a car with such performance that's capable, within reason, of day to day use.
Love the fact the saloon attracts so little attention by keeping the plastic add on's to a minimum.