New 2017 Audi RS3 Sportback blasts in with 395bhp ~ station of gear

Audi hyper hot hatch returns with more power, more torque, and a 174mph top speed on request

2017-02-10 09:55

Following on from the reveal of the new RS3 saloon at last September’s Paris Motor Show, Audi has given the RS treatment to its hatchback equivalent, unveiling the new RS3 Sportback.

Based on the recently facelifted A3 hatchback, the RS3 Sportback gains more power and torque over its predecessor, plus design tweaks in line with its saloon bodied sibling.

Under the bonnet is a reworked 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, now producing 395bhp and 480Nm of torque. That's 33bhp extra on tap and the new engine is 26kg lighter than the old one, thanks to weight-saving materials like a new aluminium crank case. That 395bhp power figure also means that it trumps the Mercedes-AMG A 45 for sheer punch, as the new RS3 outguns the hot A-Class by 19bhp.

0-62mph is dispatched in 4.1 seconds, and while top speed is limited to 155mph Audi can up the limiter’s threshold to 174mph on request. In terms of fuel economy Audi claims 34mpg, with exhaust emissions rated at 189g/km CO2.

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Power is sent to the wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox driving a quattro all-wheel-drive system with variable torque distribution.

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Relative to the standard A3 hatchback, the RS3 sits 25mm lower and boasts a wider track – 20mm wider at the front axle. 19-inch alloy wheels are home to brake discs that are 310mm in diameter front and rear.

The RS3 is marked out by a large black honeycomb grille at the front, complemented by a more aggressive looking front apron with larger vents. A small roof spoiler and diffuser are round at the rear, with two large oval shaped exhaust exits poking out of the rear bumper.

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In the cabin the RS3 gets sports seats finished in black nappa leather plus a flat-bottomed RS badged leather steering wheel as standard. More supportive RS sports seats make the options list, alongside Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display with a special RS screen setting.

Order books for the RS3 Sportback open in April 2017 with first deliveries set for this August. UK prices have yet to be confirmed, but compared to European prices it should come in at around £46,500. A full debut will take place at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

Is the Audi RS3 your favourite super hatch, or does something else take your fancy? Let us know in the comments below!

James Brodie

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