Audi’s new 300kW RS3 Sedan spotted

spot_imgspot_img

The range-topping model is set to take its power from the same turbocharged five-cylinder 2.5-litre petrol engine as the new RS Q3 performance SUV. The 294kW output of this unit will make the RS3 one of the most powerful cars in its segment, just below the 310kW Mercedes-AMG A45 S.

The RS3 is likely to improve on the larger RS Q3’s 4.5sec 0-100km/h time, potentially taking it below 4.0sec. It could also be capable of beating its 280km/h top speed, although RS models are traditionally electronically limited to 250km/h as standard.

The prototype in these images wears extensive camouflage, but we can see the RS3 Sedan will feature a number of unique design elements aimed at differentiating itself from the standard model.

Its alloy wheels are considerably larger than those of the standard car and are wrapped in much lower-profile tyres. The RS3’s potential is further hinted at by large, ventilated brake discs and a pair of classic RS-style large-bore tailpipes.

The front end features the latest iteration of Audi’s corporate grille design, with the aggressive lower air intake styling aping those of the new RS6 Avant flagship and recently facelifted RS4 Avant.

aria-label="new 2020 audi rs3 394bhp a45 rival spied in saloon form"

Audi has yet to confirm a launch date for the RS3, but it can be expected to follow some way behind the regular A3 Sedan, which is set to enter production in September.

Audi Sport’s line of RS performance models is as varied as it has ever been, with performance variants of the TT, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, Q3 and Q3 Sportback currently on offer. The range is now headed up by the new RS Q8, which packs 441kW from a twin-turbocharged mild-hybrid 4.0-litre petrol V8.

Toyota 222D – the Group S Rally Car

This 560kW rallying MR2 could have seen Toyota conquer the stages, but instead fate intervened
spot_img

Further Reading

Xiaomi SU7: China’s Taycan rival offers more performance at half the price

It might not be quite as handsome as the Porsche it apes, but with a claimed driving range of 800km and a 3.0-second run to 100km/h, the Xiaomi SU7 should prove compelling