Audi RS3 Sedan
The most powerful model of the A3 has been
launched at this year’s Mondial de L'automobile. The sedan
version comes with an even more powerful (and improved) variant of the
2.5-litre TFSI engine under the hood.
The mill in question is now 26 kilograms lighter than its predecessor, and it employs a dual injection system, as well
as Audi’s valvelift (variable valve control system) for a bit of extra oomph.
Like previous reports suggested, it now develops no less than 400 PS and 480 Nm between 1,700 rpm and 5850 rpm, making it the most
powerful five-cylinder on the market.
Powerful enough to launch the RS3 Sedan from 0 to
100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, and let it accelerate all the way to
250 km/h. If that’s not enough, Audi will be more than happy to
increase the electronic speed governor to 280 km/h.
Granted, the S-tronic seven-speed dual clutch
transmission has a saying in the vehicle’s performance as well, transmiting the
power of the 2.5 TFSI to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system – which
distributes the drive torque variably between the axles.
Thanks to a multitude of electronic gizmos, the RS3
Sedan becomes a performer through the bends. The wheel-selective
torque control slightly brakes the inside wheels in fast cornering,
transmitting greater lateral power and making the car more fluid and stable.
The new model doesn’t hide the fact
it’s a pure-bred performance automobile, sporting an aggressive,
aerodynamically studied body-kit that cuts through air like a knife. The side
air inlets form narrow funnels for better air flow through the wheel arches,
while a fixed spoiler lip on the luggage compartment lid improves the separation
of air flow.
Inside, the car comes standard with an
electrically extending MMI screen with a 7-inch diagonal, and two circular
instrument dials. Since the car is dedicated to the enthusiastic driver, it
also comes equipped with a boost pressure indicator, an oil thermometer and a
lap timer. If this “back-to-basics” scheme doesn’t appeal to the
customer, the RS3 Sedan can also be commissioned with the fully digital Audi
virtual cockpit.
