Audi RS 3 Sportback: the 335bhp hot hatch
22.11.2010 - Andy Goodwin
(8)
The Audi RS 3 has been confirmed for production, with 335bhp and quattro four-wheel drive, costing £39,900.
Powered by the brilliant 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine from the Audi TT RS, it will rocket to 62mph in 4.6 seconds and only stop accelerating at a limited 155mph - unprecedented acceleration for a hot hatch of such humble origins, with an unprecedented price tag.
Handling should be sensational too, thanks to widened axles and 19-inch alloy wheels, housed beneath carbon fibre-reinforced plastic wings.
There will be a sport button to sharpen throttle response - and unleash extra exhaust noise - and Audi's S tronic twin-clutch seven-speed gearbox will be standard, with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.
Being Audi's first ever "compact" RS, economy is also important. An average 31mpg and emission of 212g/km of CO2 certainly keep it affordable, for a hatchback with performance to shame some sports cars.
The interior is suitably appointed with Nappa leather upholstery with silver stitching and Piano black or Aluminium Race interior trim. Parking sensors, climate control, sat-nav, xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights are standard.
