The Audi RS3 is back and it’s returning with an even bigger bang than before. A 367PS and 465Nm bang, to be precise, all courtesy of an enhanced version of the 2.5-litre, turbocharged 5-cylinder engine.
Quattro all-wheel drive helps the RS3 to achieve 62mph in 4.3 seconds and it’ll reach 174mph on the autobahn, assuming you pay to have the 155mph limiter removed. That’s almost madness for a medium-sized hatchback that can carry five adults but that’s the beauty of the RS3.
The MQB platform that underpins the current A3 means that the RS3 is 55kg lighter than before, improving the power-to-weight ratio even further. As it’s the halo model in the A3 range it will be loaded with all of the best options, as well as a set of carbon-fibre backed seats that shave a few extra precious kilograms from the weight of a standard A3 pew.
How much will it cost? We don’t know yet but seeing as the 2011 RS3 gave you £70 change from £40,000, expect this one to be around £41k.
So now it’s over to AMG and BMW to see how they respond.
Audi RS3 Specifications
| Performance & Economy | 2015 Audi RS3 | 2011 Audi RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-litre 5-cylinder turbocharged petrol | 2.5-litre 5-cylinder turbocharged petrol |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-engined, all-wheel drive | 6-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-engined, all-wheel drive |
| Power (PS / bhp) | 367 | 340 |
| Torque (Nm / lb.ft) | 465 | 450 |
| 0 - 62 mph (seconds) | 4.3 | 4.6 |
| Top Speed (mph) | 155 (limited)\n174 (unlimited) | 155 (limited) |
| CO2 Emissions (g/km) | 189 | 212 |
| VED Band | J | K |
| Combined Economy (mpg) | 34 | 31 |
| Kerb Weight (kg) | 1,520 | 1,575 |
| Price (OTR) | TBA | £39,930 (in 2011) |
