As the first compact Audi sedan to wear the RS badge, the RS 3 delivers unrivaled performance in its segment, coupled with a high level of everyday functionality. Specifically developed for the US market, the RS 3 is equipped with the storied Audi five-cylinder engine which produces its unique sound and features RS-specific interior and exterior design details, offering customers an attractive entry point into the Audi Sport lineup.
Powertrain and Performance
The RS 3 features the all-new 2.5L TFSI® engine paired with a seven-speed S tronic® dual clutch transmission. Producing 400 hp, the five-cylinder engine has a total displacement of 2.5 liters which equates to 160 hp per liter. The maximum torque of 354 lb-ft is available at engine speeds as low as 1,700 rpm and remains constant up to 5,850 rpm. As a result, the RS 3 can sprint from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top track speed of 155 mph, or increased to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package.
The standard seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission focuses on high levels of performance and acceleration. With the dual-clutch, the RS 3 also now offers a launch control program that allows faster acceleration through precise engine speed and an automated clutch release.
In addition to its power output, Audi’s five-cylinder engine is known for its firing order and sound. The 1-2-4-5-3 ignition sequence produces a special rhythm and a distinct engine note that can be controlled by opening the flaps of the standard RS exhaust system. Additionally, a new dual-injection fuel system combines the benefits of indirect and direct injection and uses an intelligent engine management control unit to help optimize fuel injection and distribution based on engine load.
Chassis and Suspension
The RS 3 is standard equipped with quattro® all-wheel drive with an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch, positioned at the end of the prop shaft for ideal axle load distribution. This quattro system has no pre-set torque distribution but has specific RS programming that sends as much power to the rear as possible for increased driving dynamics.
The quattro all-wheel drive is also fully integrated within the Audi drive select system offering four distinct drive modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and individual. Each mode allows the driver to change gear shift points, steering, throttle response, and damper control (when equipped with Audi magnetic ride). Handling is also improved by RS-specific programming for the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) unit with wheel-selective torque control and an available sport mode. The standard progressive steering, tuned for the RS, provides sporty handling and precise road feedback while driving.
Brakes
Two brake systems are available on the new Audi RS 3, both offering outstanding stopping performance. Standard on the RS 3 are ventilated front and rear disc brakes with eight-piston monobloc brake calipers painted black with the RS logo. Also available are front carbon ceramic discs, (as part of the Dynamic plus package) which save more than 8 pounds compared to the traditional cast-iron rotors and offer increased resistance to brake fade. The calipers on the carbon ceramic discs are finished in an Anthracite Gray with the RS logo.
Exterior and Interior Design
The RS 3 has more aggressive and sport focused design elements than its A3 family counterparts. From the front, the RS 3 wears the signature Audi Singleframe® grille with three-dimensional honeycomb design and quattro® script. An aluminum-matte front blade extends across the width of the vehicle and connects to the large front air intakes, and wider front wheel arches provide design cues to the vehicle’s quattro® DNA. At the rear, sportier design elements include a body-colored rear spoiler lip, twin oval “RS” exhaust pipes and a rear diffuser in aluminum-matte finish with vertical struts.
The interior design includes greater attention to detail with driver-oriented, easy-to-operate controls and functions. Intended to support the driver from track to street, the S sport seats feature sharply contoured side bolsters while the standard acoustic windshield helps to reduce interior cabin noise.
Additional design highlights include:
-19-inch five-arm design silver wheels with summer performance tires, or available titanium matte or gloss black finish wheels with a staggered fitment
-Standard full LED headlights with daytime running lights and LED taillights with dynamic turn signals
-Matte Alu-optic exterior styling package including matte Alu-optic exterior mirror housings, front blade, rear diffusor and Singleframe® grille surround
-Standard three-spoke, multifunction, flat-bottom sport steering wheel with shift paddles and RS badging
-Standard Aluminum race inlays or available carbon fiber decorative inlays
Illuminated door inlays with RS 3 emblem
-Standard RS-embossed S sport front seats in fine Nappa leather with contrast diamond stitching and four-way power lumbar adjustment
-Infotainment and Driver Assistance
The all-new RS 3, while offering outstanding performance, also integrates benchmark technologies from the A3 model line including the available Audi virtual cockpit, MMI® touch® with handwriting-recognition technology and standard Audi smartphone interface, which provides Apple CarPlay™ and Google™ Android Auto integration for compatible mobile devices.
The all-new 2018 RS 3 joins the Audi Sport model line launching this summer. Model year 2017 and 2018 RS 3 model line starting manufacturer suggested retail prices:
2017 RS 3
$54,500
2018 RS 3
$54,900
*Prices above exclude destination charge ($950 for MY17 and $975 for MY18), taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
For more information, please visit www.audiusa.com.
