Is the fastest A3 ever on the way? It seems likely, as Audi development boss Michael Dick has given a strong hint that the best-selling hatch could be in line to receive the legendary RS makeover.
Only weeks after the German manufacturer unveiled its flagship TT-RS at the Geneva Motor Show, it looks as though a performance flagship version of the smallest model in the line-up could be added.
It would be the first time the RS badge is offered on the compact hatchback A3 – at present, the range-topping variant is the S3, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. To give it the step up in pace required, the RS3 would take power from the same 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbo unit as in the TT-RS. This delivers a staggering 340bhp and 450Nm of torque to all the tyres via the firm’s quattro 4WD transmission.
It would enable the Audi to complete the 0-62mph sprint in around five seconds and hit a top speed of 155mph – figures that would make it one of the fastest hot hatches on the road. But Dick hinted the RS3’s power may be limited so that it doesn’t tread on the toes of the TT-RS.
Dick has also said that the current S3 wouldn’t need to be altered drastically, with only minor changes to the handling and aerodynamics required to bring it in line with what buyers would expect from an RS.
So far, nothing has been confirmed officially. But if the RS3 does reach production, a price tag of around £35,000 is likely – and that would make it an expensive rival to the Ford Focus RS and BMW 135i. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express