Since Audi announced its future would be electric, we’ve dreaded the death of the RS3. Being one of the few remaining cars using a five-cylinder engine setup, the RS3 is as unique as they come. Naturally, our invitation to the launch drive of the new RS3 was hurriedly accepted, as we anxiously anticipated the pending experience of what could be the last RS3.
How does one improve on an icon? This burning question is all the more relevant when a car as enticing as the RS3 enters what is likely its last redevelopment phase. At first glance, Audi has again delivered on the RS3’s classic looks with extensive exterior updates. The front end now features a massive honeycomb-patterned grille, flanked by gaping intakes for improved engine cooling. The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned to look modern and sporty, with the rear also featuring new LED taillights and twin oval RS-exclusive exhaust pipes. The result is still very much an RS3, but with enough fresh touches to make it significantly more aggressive and contemporary.
FUTURISTIC INTERIOR
The cabin is both familiar and futuristic. It’s classic Audi, yet by using straight lines and symmetrical shapes combined with the two giant screens embedded in the dash, the RS3’s stylish side is revealed in a decidedly tech-minded atmosphere. Since this is an RS product, contrast stitching is applied to the performance seats, throughout the cabin, and on the steering wheel that, together with aluminium pedals, reminds you that this is no ordinary family car.
HIGH PERFORMANCE REDEFINED
The beating heart of the RS3 is a nine-time award-winning 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that churns out 294 kW and 500 Nm. While these figures seem similar to the previous model, the car’s torque band is much broader, spreading from 2,250 rpm to 5,600 rpm. Similarly, you can now access peak power between 5,600 rpm and 7,000 rpm. The new RS3 can easily tap into its maximum engine potential with these changes.
Gearing is courtesy of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers power to all four corners via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. This powertrain combination is good for a 3.8-second zero to 100 km/h dash and a top speed of 290 km/h.
PERFORMANCE IS AN ATTITUDE
A car of this ilk is expected to ace two tasks: being a comfortable and practical daily driver and a formidable driver’s machine rolled into one. Long story short, the RS3 delivers in both departments. From firing its first salvo, it is immediately apparent that the RS3 easily hits both of these targets. Steering is light and pliable on city roads, with the car in its comfort setting. The suspension feel is comfortable and the cabin insulation noteworthy, with the latter faintly punctuated by an agreeable engine din that reminds you of the car’s alter ego lurking beneath the surface.
The RS3 launch drive took us to Zwartkops Raceway and the opportunity to unleash the monster. Unburdened by traffic and speed limits, it was time to dial the drive modes to their most aggressive settings and set off for some high-speed automotive journalism.
In sport mode, the suspension and steering firm up significantly, and the valved exhaust signals to all that the once docile RS3 has become a screaming rocket.
Straight line performance on the uncompromising Audi is as astounding on tar as the spec sheet suggests, and on a track as tight as Zwartkops, corners sometimes approach you faster than the brain can keep up. Good thing, then, that the car’s improved braking system allows you to shed speed just as quickly as you gain it.
Once introduced to the corners, the RS3’s nimble nature is on full display. Audis are traditionally somewhat nose heavy, erring on the side of understeer in a painful screech of front tyres. Not so much anymore, thanks to what Audi calls the RS Torque Splitter, which distributes all power between the rear rubber in a ‘drift mode’ of sorts. While it will not grant the driver the tail-happy antics of a traditional high-performance rear-wheel drive setup, it allows you to boldly flick the RS3 around the bends in a way previously unseen. The Torque Splitter adds some serious fun to the mix in a way that its competitors – the BMW M2 and the Mercedes-AMG A45S – dominated before.
Naturally, the deep five-cylinder timbre escaping from the twin oval exhaust pipes is worth a mention. Thanks to restrictive emissions regulations, it might not be as raucous as it once was. Still, it maintains a characterful engine note that none of its competitors can dream of replicating.
LAST WORD
The new RS3 is an incredible package that will remind you of what we stand to lose once the automotive world goes fully electric. The engine is distinctive and potent, while handling dynamics have improved by a significant margin. All the while also providing enough space for four adults and decent luggage space. So while the world is waiting for the pending M2 and A45S updates, the RS3 offers a modern hot hatch or sedan that is nearly impossible to fault, a fitting tribute to the car’s last hurrah.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU & Images © AUDI SOUTH AFRICA
