The RS3 Sportback and Sedan hit the scene

When Audi launched the S3 Sedan some time ago, fans around the world waited with bated breath to see whether it would one day evolve into a raucous RS? Thankfully, with the launch of the latest face-lift, RS3 Sportback brings with it the RS3 Sedan and a RS3 5-door Sportback later this year.With its high-tech suspension, Audi’s highest powered five-cylinder production engine yet and a sharper look, the all-new Audi RS3 Sedan and RS3 Sportback are undeniably top of their class.Exterior designWith striking new visual cues, sculpted lines and a glossy black, three-dimensional honeycomb grill accentuating its performance-hungry spirit, the sporty character of the RS3 Sedan and RS3 Sportback is immediately recognisable and astonishingly attractive.The aggressive bumper, seemingly baring its teeth, makes use of blade-like details to accentuate its large, sculpted airdams. While matte aluminum details bring it back to its industrious roots. The headlights pop thanks to their jagged lower edges. LED units are standard, but you may as well spring Audi precision-controlled Matrix LED headlights. Not only do they look amazing, but you’d want all the help seeing where you’re hurtling the RS3 electronically-governed top-speed of 250 km/h (280 km/h, if you ask the technicians nicely). Seriously, 15 precisely controllable LEDs on each side shine through three reflectors to generate the high beam. Based on information from the camera mounted on the interior mirror, the control unit switches the LEDs on and off individually and can also dim them in 64 stages. As a result, the Matrix LED headlights can produce several million light distribution variations. At the rear, the RS3 demonstrates its race car ambitions with a distinctive diffuser. Huge oval tailpipes, somewhat reminiscent of airplane engines, round it out on both ends.Beyond its sculpted rear, a distinctive RS roof spoiler looms large. Both models are available in eight colors, including the RS-specific tones Nardo Grey and Catalunya Red. Now for the fun stuff“The five-cylinder engine is a legendary element of our company’s DNA,” says Stephan Winkelmann, managing director of Audi Sport GmbH. In the 1980s they made a decisive contribution to furthering the success of the brand both in motor sports and on the road. Sadly though, in recent years cylinders have been poached to the point of near extinction, so Audi was well-equipped to charge ahead as V8s and V6es fell around it.After a break of many years, they made a comeback in 2009 when the 2.5 TFSI was fitted in the Audi TT RS. In 2011, the first generation of the RS3 Sportback followed, in 2013 the RS Q3 and in 2015 the second edition of the RS3 Sportback.“Now, with 294 kW, it will take up pole position worldwide – and not only in the RS3 Sportback, but also in the RS3 Sedan. Both models will offer our customers an attractive entry into the RS world.”World beaterSince 2010, the 2.5 TFSI has been voted “International Engine of the Year” in its class for seven consecutive years. An output of 294 kW results in an increase of 24 kW versus the previous model RS3 Sportback. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm is available as low as 1,700 rpm and remains constant up to 5,850 rpm. This makes the RS3 Sedan and Sportback capable of a blistering zero to 100 km/h time of 4.1 seconds. Because of the 1-2-4-5-3 ignition sequence, the ignition alternates between directly adjacent cylinders and those further apart from one another. This brings with it a very special rhythm. The basic tone is accompanied by characteristic harmonic frequencies. The engine control unit also contributes indirectly to the unmistakable sound. At high load, the flaps in the exhaust system open for an even fuller sound. Using Audi drive select, the driver can control the opening and closing of the flaps individually. Slimmed down and smartened upAudi went to great lengths to keep the curb weights of the RS3 Sedan and Sport below a healthy 1 515 kg. The new engine is an astounding 26 kg lighter than its predecessor and even the crankshaft is hollow to save a further 1 kg. DrivetrainThe driver can let the seven-speed S tronic operate automatically or can change gear themselves using the selector lever or the steering wheel paddles. There is also a choice of two driving programs in automatic mode. In D mode, the engine is optimized for everyday traffic. In S mode, the engine is designed for more agility and the revs are higher. Gear shifts occur within hundredths of a second and make for smooth sweeps up through the range. Variable power distribution: the quattro driveDepending on driving style, between 50 and 100% of the available drive force can be sent to the rear axle. As soon as the grip on the road is reduced or the driver adopts a more sporty driving style, the clutch can direct some of the drive force to the rear axle when turning into the corner. In addition to the quattro drive, Audi drive select affects the operation of the gas pedal, S tronic, steering assistance and the exhaust flaps. Furthermore, it includes the optional RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control (Audi magnetic ride), which does wonders to counters body pitch during braking. The internally-ventilated, 370 mm perforated steel discs on the front axle come with eight-piston brake calipers with RS logos that can be painted either black or red. At your request, Audi can supply carbon ceramic brake discs with gray calipers. Interior & InfotainmentTechnical materials underline its cool, sporty character while soft surfaces provide a rich, premium feel. The Sedan is equipped with sport seats in black Fine Nappa leather, with contrast stitching in gray or red creating a visual highlight. Alternatively, RS sport seats with sharply-contoured side bolsters and integrated head restraints are also available. Also available on the RS3 is the optional Audi virtual cockpit, optimized to the RS model by shifting the rev counter to the centre. The optional RS design package emphasizes the air vents with red accent rings and uses contrast stitching for a further visual pop. Attractive supplementary components complete the infotainment lineup, especially the 705 watt Bang & Olufsen 14 speaker sound system is a must-have.With extraordinary power, a phenomenal chassis and suspension setup, premium spec-levels make the RS3 in either guise a thing of outright beauty and incredible performance. The Audi RS3 Sedan 2.5 TFSI quattro S tronic retails for roughly N$ 925,500 and, according Audi Centre Windhoek, is currently available on order. The RS3 Sportback will be available as from November. - MotorPress and Own Reporting

The RS3 Sportback and Sedan hit the scene

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The RS3 Sportback and Sedan hit the scene

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