This is the ABT RS3-R Sportback, an upgraded version of Audi’s hyper hatch that promises to be even faster and just as thrilling to drive as it is to look at. The expert tuner started its upgrades with the engine. In stock form, the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder of the RS3 Sportback is good for 394 hp and 500 Nm of torque. ABT has managed to lift those figures up to 493 hp and 600 Nm, achieved through the fitment of the ABT Power R upgrade package, an ABT intercooler, and a tweaked ECU.
This extra grunt allows the ABT RS3-R to
hit 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, a full half-second quicker than the
standard car. It will also power through to 300 km/h. A new exhaust
system with 95 mm stainless steel pipes, new springs, and upgraded stabilizer
bars also improve the hatch’s performance credentials.
A host of visual changes have also been
made to the hatch. These include a new front splitter, front canards, revised
wing mirror caps, and a rear wing, all of which are made from carbon fiber.
Gloss black side skirts have also been fitted. Further adding to the aggressive
looks of the hot Audi are a set of black 20-inch ABT wheels wrapped in Goodyear
Eagle F1 SuperSport R tires measuring 245/30 at all four corners.
Some minor tweaks have been made to the
cabin. They include ABT entry lights, new floor mats, an ABT start-stop button,
inscribed door sills, and a special badge on the dashboard. ABT Sportsline has
not revealed pricing details for the RS3-R but has confirmed production will be
limited to 200 units.
