Any new news on the RS3

[S3-lover]

Im in the market for a new car and would really love something smallish, two door and it must be turbocharged. Trying to find new info on the RS3 has proven futile, i would really love this car. I know there are some people with inside Audi info here so does anyone know any new developments on the RS3, my local dealer is useless :)

Thanks so much

cheers

[The Pretender]

No RS3 based on the 8P and doubtful for next Gen A3.
Next Gen S3 can end up with the inline 5 turbo.

[S3-lover]

whats this then?

New info released today?

Here are some more spy pics from VW Group testing over at the Nurburgring circuit, this time of a chassis test mule for an Audi RS3 dressed in an attention-grabbing orange.
Differentiating this model from the current Audi A3 range are the larger air intakes on the modified front bumper, notes our spy photographer. The rest of it looks like an S3 Sportback body.
What lies beneath that bonnet, though, is the real question. We've previously reported (http://www.worldcarfans.com/109090821568/audi-rs3-frankfurt-debut-rumors-getting-stronger---confirmed-by-south-africa-dealer) on the statement by an Audi dealer in Cape Town, South Africa who claimed that the Ingolstadt-based automaker will be fitting the RS3 with the same 2.5 liter, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine as in the TT RS model. That engine produces 340 PS (250 kW) and 450 Nm of torque.
With competitors such as the Golf R (270 PS, 199 kW), Ford Focus RS (305 PS, 224 kW) and, of course, the BMW 135i that packs 306 PS (225 kW) into the compact 1-Series, Audi may just want to completely outdo the competition by offering an RS3 with more power and an all-wheel drive system - its storied Quattro technology.
The Audi RS3 was no-show in Frankfurt (http://www.worldcarfans.com/109082421251/audi-to-unveil-rs3-in-frankfurt) after various reports. Hopefully, it will make its debut at the Paris motor show in September.

http://www.rs6.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9747&d=1272534719&thumb=1 (http://www.rs6.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9747&d=1272534719)

from worldcarfans.com


So what is this is it coming or what cos i really want to place an order.

The thing is would it not be camoflaged if it was a new/upcoming model???

[Skaala]

We've previously reported on the statement by an Audi dealer in Cape Town, South Africa who claimed that the Ingolstadt-based automaker will be fitting the RS3 with the same 2.5 liter, 5-cylinder turbocharged engine as in the TT RS model. That engine produces 340 PS (250 kW) and 450 Nm of torque.

I (all of us during a marketing presentation) was told the same by an audi official at the quattro driving experience in Norway in march.

then again, he claimed the C6 RS6 engine was 5.2TT........

[andreadebi]

bmw is ready to unveil rs3 challenger,the M1 ;)

[andreadebi]

what about this audi (r)s3 spotted @ ring?

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/8528/45784960128c99267b5eb.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/my.php?image=45784960128c99267b5eb.jpg)

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/184/4578490342354f36350fb.jpg (http://img42.imageshack.us/my.php?image=4578490342354f36350fb.jpg)

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/4197/457849046016cebb1e27b.jpg (http://img718.imageshack.us/my.php?image=457849046016cebb1e27b.jpg)

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/8240/4578490664fe0254f2afb.jpg (http://img526.imageshack.us/my.php?image=4578490664fe0254f2afb.jpg)

[mbolo]

If this thing came out - I'd definitely be interested. Love the Sportback lines and a good combo of sporty and roomy. With the TTRS engine it would be a peach. But given new A3 will be out next year - I wonder what pricedrops would be like. No fun buying a new RS and have it instantly unmodern when the new platform comes out... :(

[andreadebi]

AMS says will be unveiled at Paris autoshow...which is the truth? no rs3 for current generation as we already know or there is something new and audi's chiefs have given green light?

http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/news/erlkoenig-audi-rs3-der-spitzensportler-unter-den-kompakten-1092399.html

[tailpipe]

Current platform RS3 definitely appearing at Paris in September. The problem is that its price is very close to that of the S4. Of course, it provides monstrous performance in a lighter chassis, but as others say, prices will suffer when new A3 arrives next year.

[andreadebi]

Current platform RS3 definitely appearing at Paris in September. The problem is that its price is very close to that of the S4. Of course, it provides monstrous performance in a lighter chassis, but as others say, prices will suffer when new A3 arrives next year.

thanks.maybe they have decided after seen the new bmw 1 M1

[ZeroCool]

maybe - last week i was in Neckarsulm and saw 2 of the "new RS3" - in Black - also with the rear black rims, standing in front of the Quattro GmbH ...

[andreadebi]

maybe - last week i was in Neckarsulm and saw 2 of the "new RS3" - in Black - also with the rear black rims, standing in front of the Quattro GmbH ...

I hope we will have soon the press-release...

[AndyBG]

Spy pic's...

http://www.leftlanenews.com/audi-rs3-future.html

[tailpipe]

LeftLaneNews seems to have got it's facts a bit mixed up. The RS3 is based on current A3 platform and will be a 2011 model. This is not the new A3 on the 2012 MQB platform. They also report that basic new A3 arrives this Autumn. I think that it isn't due until next year, in March at Geneva? Anyone know more on this.

As much as I like the idea of an RS3 on the current platform, I am very much looking forward to the next one. It would be nice if it had a tad more rear legroom, a better riding chassis, and sharper styling. Whatever it offers, I hope ot makes up for the somewhat disappointing A4.

[darkop]

LeftLaneNews seems to have got it's facts a bit mixed up. The RS3 is based on current A3 platform and will be a 2011 model. This is not the new A3 on the 2012 MQB platform. They also report that basic new A3 arrives this Autumn. I think that it isn't due until next year, in March at Geneva? Anyone know more on this.

As much as I like the idea of an RS3 on the current platform, I am very much looking forward to the next one. It would be nice if it had a tad more rear legroom, a better riding chassis, and sharper styling. Whatever it offers, I hope ot makes up for the somewhat disappointing A4.
I don't know why do you claim such disappointment with B8?! if it's down to looks only, i can tell you that from where I am everybody got very approving and amazed by it when arrived as 2009 model and that made me change brands... on the other hand, the only car you can compare it is bmw 3er and nobody liked it from beginning (I know it as I was a die hard fan, so I had to defend it frequently). dynamically - audi has never meant to be a bm' and it holds to it's own in that respect... the 3.2 that i've got is such a great car - refined, fast and classy.. no other car from the same class can touch it at same time in all those fronts!

[tailpipe]

Compared to the C-Class Merc, the B8 Audi A4 looks boring.

As I've said here before, the engine was not mounted behind the front axle, merely moved a few centimetres back. If Audi really wanted to provide a car with handling to match the best BMW can offer, then it really needed to get the weight balance nearer 50:50. in the meantime, BMW is still the class leader in dynamics, even if Audi bests it in overall quality.

I am not alone in these views, Germany's Georg Kacher thinks that the A4 is decidedly lacklustre. The reason I went for a Golf VI rather than an A4, is because the Golf has better rear leg room. The A4's large transmission tunnel means that it is really only a 4 seater not a five seater. I have three kids under 10, so that matters.

Overall, i find way too many compromises in the A4. However, it is beautiful inside. Audi still does the best interiors.

[darkop]

c class is not even under distant consideration! even e90 looks good next to it.... everybody laughed at it (''everybody''- majority if not all people i talk to, general population)... if that's what you think then forget what I tried to say since we differ too much in terms of aesthetics!
cheers

[AndyBG]

From visual point, B8 A4 is great! I also think tha there could be some more engine/gearbox options, but what could you do... E90 3 series is Ok as facelifted model, original one from '05 is disaster! C-class looks great IMHO, Avantgarde with AMG package, excelent! :)

[andreadebi]

new specific for RS3 rear spoiler or what else?

http://carsspyphotos.com/new-audi-rs3-spec-feature/

[darkop]

From visual point, B8 A4 is great! I also think tha there could be some more engine/gearbox options, but what could you do... E90 3 series is Ok as facelifted model, original one from '05 is disaster! C-class looks great IMHO, Avantgarde with AMG package, excelent! :)
yeah, AMG package does wonders for c-class! I was talking about the regular kit, which doesn't look good! in other hand, regardless if it's normal or s-line trim - the a4 looks great! understated and classy! (good rim option is a must, though, as with any other car..)
pozdrav

[tailpipe]

From visual point, B8 A4 is great! I also think tha there could be some more engine/gearbox options, but what could you do... E90 3 series is Ok as facelifted model, original one from '05 is disaster! C-class looks great IMHO, Avantgarde with AMG package, excelent! :)

I agree with you about the C-Class looking good and sales figures also support a positive view of this model. There is nothing stylistically wrong with the B8 A4, it is just not very adventurous. We're about to see a very new and exciting design language come from mercedes-Benz with the launch of the new CLS this Autumn. This will then be rolled out across the new A- and B-Class, which will compete directly with the revised A3 model.

[tailpipe]

RS3 rendering. If it looks like this, then this is my next car.

http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/2011-audi-rs3-rendering_100314699_m.jpg

[Lmg]

It would be so good if the car was launched as the three-door but, unfortunately, Qisha already confirmed that the car would be Sportback only.

[tailpipe]

If I have understood Qisha correctly, then we should see an RS3 based on the current A3 platform at Paris in September. This will be a Sportback version only. However, it looks as though the next A3 model will also offer an RS3, which would probably be available as a 3- and 5-door model.

Most of the magazines seem to think that the mule on the Nurburgring is the next generation model, which seems wrong. This is is clearly the current car not a heavily disguised next generation one.

[Kliko]

don't know whether this link passed or not, but it's a nice video of the RS3 on the ring...sounds as always....... awesome!!!

http://www.secretnewcars.com/SpyVideo/Spyvideo:_Audi_RS3_on_the_N%C3%BCrburgring

[GEN XER]

Man I like this car. We wont see it in the US though. Its also a TFSI so I wouldnt buy it.

[Cheh]

Kliko, thx for video, i dont seen it before. (http://www.rs6.com/../../member.php/3090-Kliko)
I really like a current generation of A3 and news that i was read at this topic regarding 5-doors RS3 was very pleased for me.
But do have anybody any news about a price of RS3 Sporback?

[youry]

expetc about 5000 EUR cheaper than TT RS....

[Qisha]

Brake testing and ESP adjusting... :incar:

http://spyshots.nl/userfiles/image/artikel/600/RS3%202_1083193914.JPG
http://spyshots.nl/userfiles/image/artikel/600/RS%203%203_1083193915.JPG
http://spyshots.nl/userfiles/image/artikel/600/RS%203%201_1083193913.JPG
http://www.autoliefhebber.com/site/images/stories/Audi/Primeur__Audi_RS3_compleet_zonder_folie_in_Oostenr ijk/IMG_2535_kopie.jpg
http://www.autoliefhebber.com/site/images/stories/Audi/Primeur__Audi_RS3_compleet_zonder_folie_in_Oostenr ijk/IMG_2536_kopie.jpg
http://www.autoliefhebber.com/site/images/stories/Audi/Primeur__Audi_RS3_compleet_zonder_folie_in_Oostenr ijk/IMG_2537_kopie.jpg
http://www.autoliefhebber.com/site/images/stories/Audi/Primeur__Audi_RS3_compleet_zonder_folie_in_Oostenr ijk/IMG_2538_kopie.jpg

[ZeroCool]

i love it :)

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Thank you for posting these images. This car looks sensational. In many ways, it makes up for the lack of a new RS4. Can you tell us anything about the rear spoiler? Is it active like that on the TT and RS5?

[Benman]

Great news, but will it ever make it Stateside.

Best,

Ben :addict:

[Ritchy]

If i knew about this car before ordering my RS5......grrrrrrr

[Fab]

Very nice concrete pics. Thanks. This car will be the ultimate hot hatch. Finally... But better late than never.

[Fab]

If i knew about this car before ordering my RS5......grrrrrrrdifferent animal and I am shure you will enjoy the RS5.

Now a properly remapped RS3 with the right extras will be a true killer.

[tailpipe]

I have just ordered a new RS3. I have no idea what it will finally cost or when i will get it. What i do know is that it will be limited in number. I do want it to have 345 bhp. I can't wait! Qisha tell me i won't be disappointed!

[andreadebi]

I have just ordered a new RS3. I have no idea what it will finally cost or when i will get it. What i do know is that it will be limited in number. I do want it to have 345 bhp. I can't wait! Qisha tell me i won't be disappointed!

great,bravo! I guess will be a true beast

[Fab]

Good news Tailpipe ! This will be a hell of a car ! What sort of time frame are we talking about here ? An eternity anyway for someone waiting for such car...

[andreadebi]

is it possible will be unveiled for paris autoshow or we have to wait more? because I think that if will be ready for paris we have to see very soon in the next days the Audi press-release.....

[tailpipe]

Andrea,

According to the London dealer who is handling my order, the car will debut at Paris on 30th September. So, yes, we should see a pre-show press release any day.

I think the big news for this car, apart from its 5-cylinder engine, is that it will get the new 7-speed high-torque DSG box, the PQ500. This should allow for much better ratios, suiting the characteristics of the engine rather than being optimised for longevity as current ratios are in existing the VW's 6-speed DSG.

I think we may see other interesting technologies used such as aluminium parts, an active rear spoiler and perhaps tweaks to the Haldex AWD system. I look forward to a proper briefing from Qisha when it launches.

I think the RS3 will embarrass cars costing twice as much, including lesser 911s, Evos and Subarus. I'd love to see 350 bhp and 0-100 kph in under 4.4 seconds!

[darkop]

great news man! keep us posted!

[Fab]

I think the RS3 will embarrass cars costing twice as much, including lesser 911s, Evos and Subarus. I'd love to see 350 bhp and 0-100 kph in under 4.4 seconds! Depends what you are looking for when making your car choice and on which field you might be meeting these. Your remark might be true on straight line highways....with a remap on top.

Sorry but I could not resist :cheers:

[tailpipe]

Fab,

I'll be bringing my RS3 to the Swiss mountains via Geneva at Christmas. I wonder if it will eat your 911? Fancy a race?

[andreadebi]

Andrea,

According to the London dealer who is handling my order, the car will debut at Paris on 30th September. So, yes, we should see a pre-show press release any day.

I think the big news for this car, apart from its 5-cylinder engine, is that it will get the new 7-speed high-torque DSG box, the PQ500. This should allow for much better ratios, suiting the characteristics of the engine rather than being optimised for longevity as current ratios are in existing the VW's 6-speed DSG.

I think we may see other interesting technologies used such as aluminium parts, an active rear spoiler and perhaps tweaks to the Haldex AWD system. I look forward to a proper briefing from Qisha when it launches.

I think the RS3 will embarrass cars costing twice as much, including lesser 911s, Evos and Subarus. I'd love to see 350 bhp and 0-100 kph in under 4.4 seconds!

marvellous ;) so have to keep attention in the next days for the press-release.
yes,rs3 will be a true beast and will have data in the range of the sporty cars you wrote, proper of "old GTI style bomb cars" ;)

[Fab]

I will be glad to meet you if you are around. My C4S will have its new winter tires on so no problem for a ride.

However We will be comparing our driving skills not really the cars as it is always the case outside straight line acceleration. But shure let me know. Nice ride from London.

[KresoF1]

TTRS and forthcoming RS3 S tronic are using seventh gear as fuel saving overdrive(just like RS5 S tronic or Porsche's PDK in 997.2 models and Panameras.). So, top speed is in sixth gear.

[tailpipe]

Kreso,

Wasn't it you who said that the 6-cylinder 3.0-litre TFSI engine in the S4 was more economical than the 5-cylinder 2.5-litre TFSI in the TT-RS? Do you know anything more about recent developments to both engines?

[KresoF1]

Kreso,

Wasn't it you who said that the 6-cylinder 3.0-litre TFSI engine in the S4 was more economical than the 5-cylinder 2.5-litre TFSI in the TT-RS? Do you know anything more about recent developments to both engines?

S4 use even longer gearbox ratios then TTRS since its torque curve(and torque development) is wider.
IMHO both 3.0TFSI and 2.5TFSI are excellent engines.

[Joker]

Tailpipe,

Has your dealer an idea of RRP?

[tailpipe]

Joker,

No, and I think my dealer has the same name as you, because he suggested the RS3 would cost around £50K.

I told him that no sane person would ever pay this much money for a Golf derivative and that if it did cost that much I would get an S4 Avant instead. My own view is that anyone who buys an RS3 for more than £45k fully loaded will be laughed at. In truth, I don't think my dealer knows. The official order books haven't been opened yet and they have no idea about final spec.

The best guide to RS3 pricing is the TT-RS. It starts at £44,775 and Audi UK is already offering discounts of £3K. If we assume that A3 models are sold for £5K less than equivalent TT models, and the 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine commands a £7K premium over 2.0-litre 4-cylinder S models, then the RS3 should start at around £37-40K.

Audi may equip it with a high level of standard kit to justify a higher price, but even so I suppose DSG, satnav, magnetic ride, park assist, sun roof, 20" alloys and bucket seats will take the price above £45K.

Audi may say that it is a strictly limited edition model to up the price, just as VW said that only 500 Golf Rs would come to the UK but the real figure must be at least double that. If I had to put a price on the RS3 today that I think Audi will charge it will be £42K with a ton of standard equipment.

Given that an S4 Avant starts at £37K, Audi will need to be very careful what it does with the RS3. It may need to start with a lower basic price and let the extras bump it up to the desired level. A properly specced S4 costs around £47K. If an RS3 gets anywhere near this, it may not sell in sufficient numbers to justify the investment.

[Joker]

Joker,

No, and I think my dealer has the same name as you, because he suggested the RS3 would cost around £50K.

I told him that no sane person would ever pay this much money for a Golf derivative and that if it did cost that much I would get an S4 Avant instead. My own view is that anyone who buys an RS3 for more than £45k fully loaded will be laughed at. In truth, I don't think my dealer knows. The official order books haven't been opened yet and they have no idea about final spec.

The best guide to RS3 pricing is the TT-RS. It starts at £44,775 and Audi UK is already offering discounts of £3K. If we assume that A3 models are sold for £5K less than equivalent TT models, and the 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine commands a £7K premium over 2.0-litre 4-cylinder S models, then the RS3 should start at around £37-40K.

Audi may equip it with a high level of standard kit to justify a higher price, but even so I suppose DSG, satnav, magnetic ride, park assist, sun roof, 20" alloys and bucket seats will take the price above £45K.

Audi may say that it is a strictly limited edition model to up the price, just as VW said that only 500 Golf Rs would come to the UK but the real figure must be at least double that. If I had to put a price on the RS3 today that I think Audi will charge it will be £42K with a ton of standard equipment.

Given that an S4 Avant starts at £37K, Audi will need to be very careful what it does with the RS3. It may need to start with a lower basic price and let the extras bump it up to the desired level. A properly specced S4 costs around £47K. If an RS3 gets anywhere near this, it may not sell in sufficient numbers to justify the investment.

I would have thought that if the RS3 ventures beyond £35-£37k it will struggle to win customers. Things are tight out there at the moment and not many people have or want to throw any more than this figure into what is affectively a small hatchback. :rolleyes:

I also like the idea of a 350hp hot hatch, makes my giggle every time I think of it but at the moment I look at all the extra metal you can get for similar money (S4, A7, 335i, 530i, etc) and think 'am I mad?' even to consider it. :vhmmm:

[Fab]

I would have thought that if the RS3 ventures beyond £35-£37k it will struggle to win customers. Things are tight out there at the moment and not many people have or want to throw any more than this figure into what is affectively a small hatchback. :rolleyes:

I also like the idea of a 350hp hot hatch, makes my giggle every time I think of it but at the moment I look at all the extra metal you can get for similar money (S4, A7, 335i, 530i, etc) and think 'am I mad?' even to consider it. :vhmmm: I agree fully with you : bit difficult to spend so much for a hothatch vs "bigger stuff". Especially when you think that the RS3 development has been probably on e of the chippest : engine already existing, current A3 platform well sold, etc. just need to get bigger wheels, agressive front bumper and few additional goodies and here is the RS3 for 40k ! Well done Audi ! good business !

This car will be nice be the price should be lower than what it will be. Probably a good deal second hand in 12-18 month.

[youry]

I am expectign the RS3 at 60000 EUR (65000 eur for TTRS) so basically about 5k EUR less... or about 3-4 K pounds less....

it will be a very limited series since its the very end of the A3; so this is just for marketing not to have huge sales in my view....

[youry]

also stop dremaing about it being 350hp.. it will be either 340ho like TTRS or slightly less.... 330/335....

it has to be positoned slithly lower than TTRS..... its simple segmentation.... and will perform a little less since its heavier..... at best same than manual TTRS (stronic RS3)

[Joker]

also stop dremaing about it being 350hp.. it will be either 340ho like TTRS or slightly less.... 330/335....

it has to be positoned slithly lower than TTRS..... its simple segmentation.... and will perform a little less since its heavier..... at best same than manual TTRS (stronic RS3)

I was approximating the output, not making the statement that it would produce more than the TTRS. :cheers: I think we all know that this car has to be positioned below the TT, though it's extra weight would surely mean that it could get the same power yet will still be a little slower.

If you are right and it's price will only be 5000 euros less then I doubt too many people will be fighting for a chance to own one. It may well turn out to be a great car, one of Audi's best but it's still an old model and only a hatchback, so in my opinion if it's not a full 8000 euros less than the TT it will not sell.

P.S. I suppose the problem is that we all already know how good the S4 is and paying anything more than it sounds like madness. :vhmmm:

[Fab]

And also lets not forget the upcoming M1 which will be a fantastic car for shure

[Joker]

And also lets not forget the upcoming M1 which will be a fantastic car for shure

Don't you feel that the M1 is kind of similar to the RS3 in a way, another car which is coming out at in the twilight hours of the model's life. Could it too hope to demand such a high price tad? I somehow doubt it, but anyway it has it's own problems, unlike the RS3 it already has a model in the range using this very engine which makes it's price harder to justify.

Anyway though these two cars might be competing on a similar price point they are actually poles apart, well that is my opinion, especially if Audi continue on it's present path of producing exceedingly quick car which are extremely easy to drive but feel a tad boring to some because of this. Where as BMW might feel that they must distance the M1 from the more mature and well rounded M3, making it a preverbal livewire and pocket rocket but to achieve this it might make it a bit too extreme and unrefine for others. I think these cars are so different in character that they will appeal to completely different people, a bit like the M3 and RS5.

[tailpipe]

Test drove the S3 today to see what the foundation on which the RS3 will be built was like. I liked it very much. My dealer told me some interesting facts:

- RS3 will be a strictly limited edition special and much lighter than S3 with lots of aluminium parts
- because of its limited status, it will get the same or more bhp than TT-RS (he said 350 bhp but not sure I believe this)
- he admitted that TT-RS is a problem for Audi, primarily due to price: expect reduction
- RS3 likely to cost just under £40K with everything except magnetic ride, S-Tronic, sun roof, parking sensors, metallic paint and 19" wheels
- and get this: Audi will apparentently be showing the new Q3 at Paris in a few weeks as well as RS3
- finally, expect RS3 to be available quickly after Paris - need to get it out of the door before new A3 arrives

-

[tvrfan]

TT-RS is bad for audi??? what the f..ck ? why are they just building the TT-RS when its bad? its audis problem if they setting the price tag to high.

[AndyBG]

I don't know precisly, but I think that selling figures are very low on TT RS...

[tvrfan]

i hope that doesnt mean that there will be no more next gen TT RS or something :(

[Erik]

TT-RS is bad for audi??? what the f..ck ? why are they just building the TT-RS when its bad? its audis problem if they setting the price tag to high.

Not bad, but the price is too steep. Just madness.

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

by the time the TTRS was under development, the RS 3 was a "no go". Therefore all development cost was initially for just one model (mayor engine wise). As the board decided to give the RS 3 the green light, this was given with the intention to be up with the market and competition. Speculations are not so far off. :)

Qisha

PS: 2700 units, not more.

[Fab]

Sounds good...

No surprise on TT RS side...

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Is that 2,700 units for the TT-RS or RS3 or both?

Looking forward to your perspectives on the RS3 when it is released.

[Qisha]

Qisha,

Is that 2,700 units for the TT-RS or RS3 or both?

Looking forward to your perspectives on the RS3 when it is released.

Dear tailpipe,

the RS 3 will be limited to 2.700 units.

Qisha

[darkop]

Dear Friends,

by the time the TTRS was under development, the RS 3 was a "no go". Therefore all development cost was initially for just one model (mayor engine wise). As the board decided to give the RS 3 the green light, this was given with the intention to be up with the market and competition. Speculations are not so far off. :)

Qisha

PS: 2700 units, not more.

exactly, the RS3 represents a direct response to the 1M!

[Joker]

Dear Friends,

by the time the TTRS was under development, the RS 3 was a "no go". Therefore all development cost was initially for just one model (mayor engine wise).


Dear tailpipe,

the RS 3 will be limited to 2.700 units.

Qisha

Since you are telling us that the TTRS was budgeted at the time to be a sole project with this engine and gearbox, does this now mean that Tailpipe's earlier claims and I quote 'he admitted that TT-RS is a problem for Audi, primarily due to price: expect reduction ' may well prove to be true and Audi are considering to drop the price of the TTRS?

Also, 2700 units for a worldwide audience is extremely small is it not, especially for a car which will be the cheapest ever RS model. Does this mean a model run of only 1 year at most?

[darkop]

Since you are telling us that the TTRS was budgeted at the time to be a sole project with this engine and gearbox, does this now mean that Tailpipe's earlier claims and I quote 'he admitted that TT-RS is a problem for Audi, primarily due to price: expect reduction ' may well prove to be true and Audi are considering to drop the price of the TTRS?

Also, 2700 units for a worldwide audience is extremely small is it not, especially for a car which will be the cheapest ever RS model. Does this mean a model run of only 1 year at most?
Yes, it does mean and it's all known fact already... As whole new gen A3 is due on late spring, RS3 was made only as a short run to take from sales of new bm' 1M as chaps from Munich are the main competitors at the moment!

[Joker]

Yes, it does mean and it's all known fact already... As whole new gen A3 is due on late spring, RS3 was made only as a short run to take from sales of new bm' 1M as chaps from Munich are the main competitors at the moment!

So where does this leave the RS3. Is the new S3 going to get the engine or will it soilder on with the 2.0TFSi? It seems that with each new bit of information, more questions pop up that need to be asked.:vhmmm:

Oh and I think we all gathered that the RS3 is Audi's answer to the M1, but unlike it the RS3 at the moment is unique with no other A3 getting it's engine, something that the M1 can't claim. :jlol: It's also going to be very exclusive, something BMW don't understand the concept of and it will be a practical hatchback (possibly 5 dr) instead of a cramped coupe.

No contest in my mind.

[tailpipe]

I would have thought that the TT-RS would have been the primary competitor to the M1. Of course, it can't be because of the price: almost £50K in the UK when optioned to a decent spec. Frankly, I think it should have been sold for £40K.

Going back to the RS3, I guess Audi won't have time to produce more than 2,700 units before the new A3 arrives? I mean, if orders take months to come through, the new A3 could be launched before your RS3 arrives.

BTW, I hope the RS3 is the least expensive RS model.

[Qisha]

Enjoy... :hihi:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=df-yU-g6ljE&feature=player_embedded#!

[tailpipe]

Oh... my... god!!!!!!

720 bhp? That's insane!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:applause::applause::applause::0::0::0::bow::bow:: bow::wo::wo:

P.S. i don't think that 2,700 RS3s is going to be enough.

[tvrfan]

lol 2,700 units are exact the same as bmw will build from the 1er M coupe. i read over 1addicts.com. it was confirmed by kay segler from m gmbh.

[Toto89]

Now i wonder what can be done with a RS6 engine! I guess well over 1000hp...

[Benman]

^^^^^ At 1:05!!! :bow::thumb:^^^^^

[tailpipe]

This Is Vorsprung Dutch Technik at it's best. No doubt this engine needs wider application.

[tvrfan]

This Is Vorsprung Dutch Technik at it's best. No doubt this engine needs wider application.

you said "Vorsprung Holland (niederlande) technik :D " right translated in german . "Vorsprung durch Technik"

greets :D

[tailpipe]

you said "Vorsprung Holland (niederlande) technik :D " right translated in german . "Vorsprung durch Technik"

greets :D

And one can only imagine what 'Vorsprung DUTCH technik' might involve. whatever it is, it's probably NSFW and less sexy than Audi's 5-cylinder TFSI. (ttping on an iPhone is not easy).

[Ritchy]

http://www.germancarblog.com/2010/09/audi-rs3-even-more-intel/

[SAF]

I just wet myself.

[tailpipe]

The other thread about the next RS4 has got me thinking about this car, the RS3.

To me, an RS car is all about the engine. This has to be the number one consideration. I think this 5-cylinder 2.5 in the RS3 is just about a perfect engine for this class of hatchback. I mean 350 bhp is plenty. If Audi can reduce the weight by about 100 kg to 1400 kg, then this thing will be lightening quick. As it is, it should be able to give the RS5 a run for its money. It'll be small, compact and hopefully discreet.

In short, if i I have one of these, then maybe I won't need an RS4?

[Joker]

RS models were always about the engine in my opinion, even when the RS4 was released it's engine was THE BEST in both output per capacity and peak revs but since the M3 release it's v8 the 4.2FSi isn't quite as headlining as it once was and with even more weight to haul around the RS5 has lost Audi it's advantage of always being able to outgun the equivalent M car.

The balance needs to be addressed.

[Fab]

Fully agree with the last two posts : RS is all about engine and thus the RS3 will be the most acomplished RS as per my list of criterias. Why not the TT RS ? Well not as practical, expensive, many other interesting alternatives.

And a remapped one will make RS5 crying.

[Joker]

Fully agree with the last two posts : RS is all about engine and thus the RS3 will be the most acomplished RS as per my list of criterias. Why not the TT RS ? Well not as practical, expensive, many other interesting alternatives.

And a remapped one will make RS5 crying.

I'm torn between making the jump for this car and chosing something more sensible like an S4 Avant. Price wise the two cars will be about the same, the performance will go to the RS3, though the S4 is no slow coach either, but it's the fact that the new A3 is so close that's getting me, what if Audi decide to give the next A3 an incredible chassis and then heaven's forbid the 2.5TFSi engine to the next S3. Such things would certainly make the RS3 appear dear and probably kill it's secondhand value in a couple of years.

I just wished I knew what the future will be for the new A3. :vhmmm:

[tailpipe]

I'm torn between making the jump for this car and chosing something more sensible like an S4 Avant. Price wise the two cars will be about the same, the performance will go to the RS3, though the S4 is no slow coach either, but it's the fact that the new A3 is so close that's getting me, what if Audi decide to give the next A3 an incredible chassis and then heaven's forbid the 2.5TFSi engine to the next S3. Such things would certainly make the RS3 appear dear and probably kill it's secondhand value in a couple of years.

I just wished I knew what the future will be for the new A3. :vhmmm:

I am facing exactly the same dilemma. I have ordered the RS3. Here's why:

1. Properly specced S4 is around £48K, while a fully equipped RS3 should be £42K

(I base this on the fact that TTS versus TTRS price difference is around £10,000, so with current S3 Sportback fully loaded at £32K that means an equivalent RS3 should = £42K. i also know that UK dealers are offering discounts of £3-4K on the TT-RS. That also brings the price down from £46K to £42K, in case Audi charges the same as TT-RS. I think Audi has to charge less given that A3 chassis is so close to the end of its production life. Audi may charge the same as the TT justifying the premium on it being a limited edition run. my own feeling is that any price much above £42K will be too much. If it does cost significantly more than an S4 Avant, I will probably choose that instead. What I'm hoping for is an RS3 price of under £40K.)

2. The RS3 should have 350 bhp versus the S4's 320 bhp in a chassis that weighs 250 kg less. The RS3 is also likely to return 30-40 mpg versus the S4's 27 to 36 mpg while accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds versus 5.2 seconds. A chipped and ungoverned RS3 should crack 175 mph and 400 bhp. That's enough to put a Porsche 911 in its place.

3. It will be at least 3 years before a new S3 arrives, and probably 4 to 6 before a new RS3 knowing Audi's lateness with RS models, so although it is old it will remain unique for some time.

(You make a very good point about the new A3 being imminent. It will be a longer and wider car, somewhere in size between the current A3 and A4, if early reports are accurate. it also seems as if the styling will be a lot better too. One reason why the new A3 should be excellent is Audi's ongoing development to the EA888 2.0 litre engine. in an S3, this should crack 300 bhp and be mated to the new high torque 7-speed DSG already available in the TT-RS. Audi will also give it a brand new MMI Satnav system. As someone who has been burnt by buying new models in their first year of production, I think most manufacturers need around 12-18 months of production snagging before all gremlins are removed. So if new A3 is due in 12-18 months time and will take the same amount of time to be perfected in an S3 model, we're loooking at 36 months before an S3 or RS3.)

Another relevant reason to prefer RS3 is that A3 Sportback is smaller and compact whereas A4 chassis of S4 Avant is much bigger. For someone who lives in London, that helps.
it probably isn't important for you. In the end, I had to ask myself which engine was better: the 5-cylinder 2.5 TFSI or the V6 3.0 TFSI. Both are excellent, but for me, rationally (in terms of power, economy and emissions) and emotionally (sound of the exhaust, link with the old Quattro) the 5 clinches it.

Of course, we have to see what the RS3 ends up looking like. if it looks like my avatar with typical front end RS styling and chunky alloys, then all should be well.

[Joker]

Thanks Tailpipe for giving rational thoughts to my dilemma and valid reasons for choosing the RS3. I must admit that I thought the new A3 was very close, probably only 12 months away from production and that the S3 would be released approximately 1 year after that, but if your timescale is correct then picking the RS3 sounds the better option.

I also have to agree that on pure emotion the 5cylinder sounds far fruitier and more like the Audi rallycars I grew up listening to in the forrests, something the 3.0v6 doesn't have and you are quite right about the mpg of the two cars, the lighter RS3 will be easier on fuel if driven sensibly which might be kind of difficult considering the sound that engine makes. :incar:

If you are right about the price (£42K loaded) and Audi dealers offer similar discounts to that of the TTRS then I may very well be joining you in being one of the few to own this devil of a car.

Perfect spec for me would be
White or Daytona Grey
Black leather but not the buckets (ass too big :snow:)
19" alloys (RS5 look a likes)
Bose or B&O sound system with DAB if possible
F&R parking sensors
Auto wipers and lights
Elec seats

Oh and of course the 7sp S/Tronic gearbox.

P.S.
Are you sure that the S4 takes 5.2s to reach 60mph, I thought it was quicker than that. Though not that it really makes that much of a difference in the real world, what with all the speed cameras and road works that seem to be the norm.

[tailpipe]

Thanks Tailpipe for giving rational thoughts to my dilemma and valid reasons for choosing the RS3. I must admit that I thought the new A3 was very close, probably only 12 months away from production and that the S3 would be released approximately 1 year after that, but if your timescale is correct then picking the RS3 sounds the better option.

I also have to agree that on pure emotion the 5cylinder sounds far fruitier and more like the Audi rallycars I grew up listening to in the forrests, something the 3.0v6 doesn't have and you are quite right about the mpg of the two cars, the lighter RS3 will be easier on fuel if driven sensibly which might be kind of difficult considering the sound that engine makes. :incar:

If you are right about the price (£42K loaded) and Audi dealers offer similar discounts to that of the TTRS then I may very well be joining you in being one of the few to own this devil of a car.

Perfect spec for me would be
White or Daytona Grey
Black leather but not the buckets (ass too big :snow:) :lovl:
19" alloys (RS5 look a likes)
Bose or B&O sound system with DAB if possible
F&R parking sensors
Auto wipers and lights
Elec seats

Oh and of course the 7sp S/Tronic gearbox.

No one knows the timescale for release of new A3, but 2011 looks right based on 2004 release of current one.

RS3 should come with everything except: 19" and 20" alloys, sun roof, S-Tronic, Parking sensors and Magnetic ride. Although sat nav is currently standard on UK S3s, i expect we'll probably need to pay for it on the RS3.

Personally, I'm not sure 19"s add anything except extra cool bling factor.

[Joker]

No one knows the timescale for release of new A3, but 2011 looks right based on 2004 release of current one.

RS3 should come with everything except: 19" and 20" alloys, sun roof, S-Tronic, Parking sensors and Magnetic ride. Although sat nav is currently standard on UK S3s, i expect we'll probably need to pay for it on the RS3.

Personally, I'm not sure 19"s add anything except extra cool bling factor.

I must admit I clean forgot about MR suspension, it really bugs me that the TTS comes standard with magnetic ride suspension and yet they charge extra on the TTRS. Just another example of car manufacturers f'ing you over just because they can. As for the Sat-nav, they can keep it as far as I'm concerned, no OEM unit matches up to your cheap £200 aftermarket kit which at least can go with you on holiday.

Don't know if I could live with anything less than 19" and unless Audi make a u-turn and offer really pretty stock rims then I will continue to upgrade to the next size up.

[andreadebi]

http://www.autobild.de/artikel/audi-a1-1.4-tfsi-s1-rs-3-rs-7-1260284.html

price € 49.000 for autobild,same league-level bmw 1m

[youry]

that is cheaper than I would have expected it would end. I had said 5000 EUr less then TTRS. in germany its sold 56000 EUR the TTRS sol its actually 7000 EUR less. now need to be carefull as it might have all of the nice things in option....

[Joker]

that is cheaper than I would have expected it would end. I had said 5000 EUr less then TTRS. in germany its sold 56000 EUR the TTRS sol its actually 7000 EUR less. now need to be carefull as it might have all of the nice things in option....

I wonder what that will mean for the UK?

[tailpipe]

I wonder what that will mean for the UK?

£39,000 basic rising to £43,000 fully loaded, according to my dealer. Since the same man informed me that it would be shown at Paris (which is apparently now not the case) , this may not be right.

I know that you can get £3K off a TT-RS and that the difference between UK 'S' models and 'RS' models is £10K. That would make an RS3 £7K more expensive than an S3, or £37,000. Add a premium to account for the fact that only 2,700 are being produced, and you get to a basic of £39K.

If Audi charges the same as for a TT-RS, i.e. £46K, I wonder how that'll affect demand? Probably not much, so the price will be as much as Audi thinks it can get away with.

[Joker]

£39,000 basic rising to £43,000 fully loaded, according to my dealer. Since the same man informed me that it would be shown at Paris (which is apparently now not the case) , this may not be right.

I know that you can get £3K off a TT-RS and that the difference between UK 'S' models and 'RS' models is £10K. That would make an RS3 £7K more expensive than an S3, or £37,000. Add a premium to account for the fact that only 2,700 are being produced, and you get to a basic of £39K.

If Audi charges the same as for a TT-RS, i.e. £46K, I wonder how that'll affect demand? Probably not much, so the price will be as much as Audi thinks it can get away with.

I would feel a lot happier if the RS3 finally showed up in the showrooms with a RRP of £38K or less. And as I can get between 7~8% off an S4 Avant I would be expecting something similar off the RS3, I know that would be what I would be pushing for. I reckon the M1's price difference between it and the 135i could determine what Audi look to price the RS3 different from the S3, if that price difference known yet or is it as much in the air as the RS3's pricing.

[tailpipe]

The use of the 2.5 litre five cylinder engine in the Quattro concept simply underlines its potency, flexibility and economy. It is a terrific engine. I wonder what 408 bhp would do to a TT-RS's performance figures. I am sure they wouldn't be too far below those of the QC. Of course, the other reason to prefer the QS is because it has a longitudinal setup with the latest Quattro system instead of Haldex. All this makes me look forward to the RS3even more. It won't be quite as sharp as the QC but should still be impressively quick. It will also have the advantage of four seats and a 7-speed DSG box.

Given that we are rapidly approaching the arrival of the new A3, I am surprised that that Audi didn't launch it at Paris. Actually, I'm pissed off, not least because my local dealer said it would be here by Christmas. Bullshit. Given how long the TT-RS and A3have been in production, I can't understand why it is taking so long. Perhaps Qisha can provide us with a few answers.

[Joker]

When I went into the dealers to see the A7 I did get chatting to a sales assistant and during the discussion of this and that the subject turned to the RS3. He too has taken deposits for the car like unlike your dealer they haven't heard anything about a release date, he even doubted whether it would get launched so close to the new A3.

[darkop]

I think this car was made and signed off for production as soon as they heard about new BMW 1M, which will also be introduced at the end of, extended (how funny?!!), life cycle of current 1er! 1er will be shown at the end of year, so expect similar from Audi... Little bit cheap move but probably well thought to steal from sales of competitor! Personally, I couldn't care less about this A3... Old school, waiting next year and the new model, which might be my future choice (when/if sell current A4 3.2..)
Cheers

[andreadebi]

I think this car was made and signed off for production as soon as they heard about new BMW 1M, which will also be introduced at the end of, extended (how funny?!!), life cycle of current 1er! 1er will be shown at the end of year, so expect similar from Audi... Little bit cheap move but probably well thought to steal from sales of competitor! Personally, I couldn't care less about this A3... Old school, waiting next year and the new model, which might be my future choice (when/if sell current A4 3.2..)
Cheers

this is the expected timeline - roadmap new bmw cars

On Deck:
BMW 1-Series M Coupe (1M)
- Official Launch: December 2010
- World Premiere: NAIAS Detroit (January 2011)
- Press Drives: March 2011
- European Premiere: Geneva 2011
- Euro on sale date: Spring 2011
- US on sale date: Summer 2011
BMW 6-Series November 2010. Official Debut @ Geneva 2011
BMW X1 USA Possible for LA Autoshow 2010
BMW M5
- Concept Unveiling: March 2011 @ Geneva Motor Show
- Official Launch: Summer 2011
- World Public Premiere: September 2011 @ IAA Frankfurt Show
- Euro deliveries: November 2011
- US deliveries: Spring 2012
BMW 1-Series 3-dr and 5-dr (F20/F21) Debut @ IAA Frankfurt 2011
BMW 1-series Coupe (F22) - launches late 2012
BMW 1-series Convertible (F23) - launches mid 2013
BMW Z2 Lightweight Roadster - 2013
BMW Z2 Coupe - 2013

BMW 7-Series LCI Beijing Autoshow 2012
BMW 3-Series Sedan (F30) Priority Reveal November 2011 (London?). World Debut @ 2012 Geneva Autoshow
BMW 3-Series Touring (F31) World Debut @ Leipzig AMI 2012
BMW M6 2012 Geneva Autoshow
BMW M6 Cabrio debut in September 2012 (ahead of the 2012 Mondial l'automobile ,Paris.)
6-series Gran Coupe
- Debut summer 2012 (Paris or Beijing Autoshow)
- On sale late 2012

BMW X4 Possible for 2013
BMW 3-Series Coupe (F32) 2013
New long wheelbase X5 or possibly called the X7 2014

[andreadebi]

The use of the 2.5 litre five cylinder engine in the Quattro concept simply underlines its potency, flexibility and economy. It is a terrific engine. I wonder what 408 bhp would do to a TT-RS's performance figures. I am sure they wouldn't be too far below those of the QC. Of course, the other reason to prefer the QS is because it has a longitudinal setup with the latest Quattro system instead of Haldex. All this makes me look forward to the RS3even more. It won't be quite as sharp as the QC but should still be impressively quick. It will also have the advantage of four seats and a 7-speed DSG box.

Given that we are rapidly approaching the arrival of the new A3, I am surprised that that Audi didn't launch it at Paris. Actually, I'm pissed off, not least because my local dealer said it would be here by Christmas. Bullshit. Given how long the TT-RS and A3have been in production, I can't understand why it is taking so long. Perhaps Qisha can provide us with a few answers.

in this article

http://www.automotorsport.se/news/21496/audi-s1-kommer-med-4wd-och-270-hk/

there was an interesting info about rs3

Although the body soon draws to a generational shift has decided to drop RS3 with the same turbo five and drivetrain that sits in the TT RS. Public premiere, it will be at the Geneva motor show next spring.

The development team that produced RS3 wanted wider rim size than the rear wheel well permit, but management said no for reasons of cost. This made the whole RS3 project put in "standby mode". But then someone came on the odd idea to test the car with 245 decks front and 225 rear - which proved to work out just fine.

Audi RS3 will be the first (to our knowledge) series-built, four-wheel drive car with wider tire sizes front than the rear. Is there any car that has wider tires? We send a question to our knowledgeable readers

[Ritchy]

That's not serious from Audi if it's true...."well, 245 in the front but only 225 in the rear, because we decided not to spend money to make it possible"....incredible !

[Fab]

pure joke. no way.

[Joker]

Are you seriously trying to tell us that Audi won't fit wider arches at the rear of the A3 to accommodate 245 rubber?

This sounds absurd until you actually sit and think about it, then you start wondering why no one has tried this before because given that all fwd cars have a great weight at the front compared to the rear it is surely logical is it not to expect the front wheels to get the most demand placed on them as they not only have most weight but they also do the steering and the propulsion and all Haldex cars also follow this principal of only shifting up to 50% of the total power available to the rear when grip is lost at the front, otherwise up to 95% goes to the front.

It might look odd but might be a smart move.

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

it has been done before... and worked... very well. :hihi: (Understeer... almost gone)

http://www.mtm-online.de/en/highlights/details?id=14

Qisha

PS: http://www.rs6.com/showthread.php/18028-MTM-Audi-S2-RSR.

[Joker]

Dear Friends,

it has been done before... and worked... very well. :hihi: (Understeer... almost gone)

http://www.mtm-online.de/en/highlights/details?id=14

Qisha

PS: http://www.rs6.com/showthread.php/18028-MTM-Audi-S2-RSR.

Thanks, this sort of confirms what I was thinking, though I never knew it had actually been done before. You can almost guarantee when you read in magazine article about an Audi that they not only complain about it's lack of excitement and involvement but also they complain about it's understeer too.

So why doesn't Audi do it more often?

[tailpipe]

I thought the TT-RS used basically the same set-up as that of the RS3? Does the TT-RS not have wider front wheels too? Or have the rear wheel arches been extended to accommodate 245 tyres as well?

[Qisha]

"Teaser"... :hihi:

http://www.audiblog.nl/wp-content/Audi-RS3-instrumentarium-1.jpg
http://www.audiblog.nl/wp-content/Audi-RS3-instrumentarium-2.jpg
http://www.audiblog.nl/wp-content/Audi-RS3-instrumentarium-3.jpg
http://www.audiblog.nl/wp-content/Audi-RS3-instrumentarium-4.jpg
http://www.audiblog.nl/wp-content/Audi-RS3-instrumentarium-5.jpg

[Erik]

That's the strangest teaser I've seen in a long time :D

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Thank you for this, but we really expect more from you!!!

[ZeroCool]

i think somebody is going to lose a job?!

[Joker]

With the M1, BMW tease us with small section of bodywork but here Qisha teases us with a set of dials. Nice one. :hihi:

Comments from headmaster, 'must try harder'. :idea:

[Benman]

That's the strangest teaser I've seen in a long time :D Ditto!!! More please! :D

[Erik]

With the M1, BMW tease us with small section of bodywork but here Qisha teases us with a set of dials.

Please note this is not official material. "Damage" done so to speak, but not by Qisha.

http://www.audiblog.nl/?p=38869

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

actually the Cockpit Unit has been "taken" from a part supplier... and has been offered for sale in several communities...

Qisha

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Somehow, you manage to tell us everything without telling us anything! Thanks to you, we know that the RS3 is real and definitely coming and we know much about its set-up. You are never rude and never allow yourself to be drawn into controversial discussions that compromise your position. In that sense, you are a perfect brand ambassador for quattro Gmbh. I am sure that Dr Piech and Dr Winterkorn would approve.

[JavierNuvolari]

Qisha,

Somehow, you manage to tell us everything without telling us anything! Thanks to you, we know that the RS3 is real and definitely coming and we know much about its set-up. You are never rude and never allow yourself to be drawn into controversial discussions that compromise your position. In that sense, you are a perfect brand ambassador for quattro Gmbh. I am sure that Dr Piech and Dr Winterkorn would approve.

Could not have been said better.

Saludos!

[Benman]

Could not have been said better.

Saludos! Yep! Qisha has my vote!

Insert "Vote for Qisha" shirt here. ;)

Ben

[rs-6]

Just one remark: why would Audi wait for the Geneva Auto Show to launch the RS3?
The technology is ready(looking at the DSG in the TT-RS), the clients are waiting to place their order and the concept is spectacular enough to get the attention from car-mags. (I remember the first RS3-articles somewhere in the beginning of 2004)
And more important: even though the difference is only one of a couple of months, the impression about a launch at Geneva would be that it's really late (especially if the cars are only delivered in the summer of "11), better would be that the car is Launched and available on the config asap, and the delivery's start around the time of the Geneva Autosalon.

(just IMHO)

[rs-6]

maybe the motorsport-salon at Essen (which has a 'sportiche serienfahrzeug'-department) in november would be a good place to launch the car?

[Erik]

Maybe...just maybe... :D

[Joker]

The latest info in the press is the RS3's biggest rival (the M1 Coupe) will be officially shown for the first in Jan'11 at the Detroit Motorshow with an availability from May'11. If this is correct then Audi really need to get their skates on and show this thing before BMW steal the show.

[rs-6]

Maybe...just maybe... :D

hinting or just wishfull thinking? :hahahehe:

[Erik]

hinting or just wishfull thinking? :hahahehe:

I don't know, but Essen would be very logical since it's more of a motorsport / tuning exhibition where the RS3 would fit very well.

[Joker]

At my dealers there are several deposits for the RS3 and they are hinting at a date in the UK of Spring next year. Where they are getting this date from I haven't a clue because no one else is but in my experience it's unusual for a dealer to even make such a date claim at all.

[tailpipe]

Just one remark: why would Audi wait for the Geneva Auto Show to launch the RS3?
The technology is ready(looking at the DSG in the TT-RS), the clients are waiting to place their order and the concept is spectacular enough to get the attention from car-mags. (I remember the first RS3-articles somewhere in the beginning of 2004)
And more important: even though the difference is only one of a couple of months, the impression about a launch at Geneva would be that it's really late (especially if the cars are only delivered in the summer of "11), better would be that the car is Launched and available on the config asap, and the delivery's start around the time of the Geneva Autosalon.

(just IMHO)

I very much agree with you. The gestation period of an elephant his faster than that of Quattro Gmbh. It seems as if Audi's timeline for the RS3 is being driven by BMW's launch agenda for the M1. When your actions are merely a response to those of your competitors instead of being based on your own beliefs, you lose your credibility. I think the RS3 is assured of success whatever BMW does with the M1. Indeed, I think the biggest threat to the RS3 is not a BMW but another Audi, the next A3 - which is going to be a great car and it's coming soon. For all these reasons, the delay seems ridiculously long.

[youry]

audi is not goign to be present at esen motorshow like last year..... only Skoda from the group. this is the info I have....

[Joker]

Has anyone got any idea as to what the weight will end up at, like will is increase dramatically like it did with the RS5 compared to the S5 or have Audi learned their lesson and will try and keep the weight in check, hopefully even improving on the S3.

I love Audi and especially RS versions but where as most other manufacturers makes serious efforts to reduce the weight of their most track focused versions Audi chose to increase power and throw technology instead, some times it works but not always.

[ZeroCool]

finally :) THE picture from an Austrian Dealer...

http://nicerl.members.cablelink.at/rs32011.jpg

[Ruergard]

I need a picture, NOW! :D

[tailpipe]

Sportback only.
340 bhp.
S-tronic only?

[Joker]

Sportback only.
340 bhp.
S-tronic only?

Is this definate but? Does it not mean that there will also be an S-tronic model as well?

Oh and what is wrong with only 340bhp?


10419

Found this picture on another forum by a guy called 'Poverty'.

[tailpipe]

Looks official. Apparent lateness of RS3's arrival shouldn't be a cause for concern because I now understand that the next A3 isn't arriving until 2013. I'm not sure if that means a 2012 debut as 2013 MY car or 2013 debut. I thought it was going to come next September, at Frankfurt. It isn't clear what the timeline is, and the truth is no one outside Audi really knows. In the meantime, I hear the present A3 is still selling well, which reduces pressure to replace it. if this is true, then at least RS3 will enjoy a decent shelf-life.

Summary of what we know:
- Designed to compete with BMW M1
- Will get 340 bhp, 0-100 kph in 4.4 seconds top speed limited to 250 kph
- Performance figures in line with TT-RS
- Wider tyres at the front because cost of extended rear wheel arches was perceived to be too much
- Only available with DSG (unconfirmed)
- Only available as a Sportback (unconfirmed)
- Limited to 2,700 units worldwide (unconfirmed, if true, the reason is to justify a higher price)
- Handling characteristics dramatically different to S3 due to new suspension components and set-up.
- Makes use of aluminium for suspension, bonnet and tailgate (unconfirmed).

In summary, this car is all about that engine. It's a peach.

[Erik]

I hope a lot of these smaller R/RS/M badged cars will get us "back to basic", or at least closer than today.
With size and weight increases year after year a lot of the fun has been lost.

And in that case it has to more than just about the engine.

The new Subaru Impreza WRX STI looks promising as well.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPJocVN4BTk&feature=player_embedded

If you don't like Subarus this video might still interest you. ;)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ACK09MLgaY&feature=player_embedded

[tailpipe]

There is a very interesting article in the November issue of UK motoring magazine, Car, about the Quattro Concept. It's written by the highly-respected German writer, Georg Kacher. In it he suggests that the Quattro Concept is unlikely to make into production. He says that its aluminium and CF body shell is likely to prove too expensive to manufacture at any volume at sensible prices. The car needs this exclusive clothing and a manual gear box to keep weight around 1,300 kg, the same as he original. The most serious issue is the longitudinal layout and its effect on pedestrian crash safety - the engine protrudes too far forward making it potentially lethal in a front-end collision.. So we have costs, weight and safety legislation all mitigating against it.

I suggested that the QC might not see the light of day in the dedicated thread on this subject, but only for reasons of cost. I was ignored. It'll be a shame if I am now proved right. However, the upshot of this is that the RS3 may well have to fill the void left by the lack of a true Quattro Anniversario model. If this is the case, then more will be expected of it. So perhaps Audi will add a touch of the exotic to attract hard-core Audi aficionados?

Since Audi is too much of a tightwad to fit extended rear wheel arches (meaning that the front wheels are wider than the back ones, presumably making the car look like a three-wheeler) I am sure that other cost-cutting measures may also prevent it from being as focused as we would all like. The acid test would be whether Kreso gives it the thumbs up.

It looks like the R4 will be produced and sit below the TT as a kind of junior sports car. This will have the 5-cylinder unit in a mid-rear engine configuration with a weight close to that of the target of 1,300 kg. Details are sketchy, but if Quattro Concept dies, this should make up for it.

[darkop]

^ :harass:
Why would anyone take seriously what Georg Kacher (and more so - CAR Mag) says about any Audi since they proved so many times that they don't have a clue about anything that comes from Ingolstadt!
That he is a German adds nothing to their reputation...

[Ritchy]

DSG and Sportback only were confirmed by Qisha for a long time now.....there's no surprise or things to be confirmed for me.

[Joker]

I suppose the reason for one transmission option is all to do with the limit production numbers, the same must be true for it only being offered in SB form. I don't understand why Tailpipe is on such a downer about the rear rubber being narrower than the front, did Qisha not say it's to benefit understeer.

[Erik]

According to rumors the Sport Auto time for the Renault Megane RS will soon be released.

Rumor has it it did the lap in 8.24, and 8.12 on r tires. A French hot hatch with a 2.0 which is faster than a Porsche Cayman and a Lotus Exige S with Öhlins, R tires and supercharged...

Similar eyebow riser as the Nissan GT-R time.

[tailpipe]

^ :harass:
Why would anyone take seriously what Georg Kacher (and more so - CAR Mag) says about any Audi since they proved so many times that they don't have a clue about anything that comes from Ingolstadt!
That he is a German adds nothing to their reputation...

Ask any of the top UK motoring journalists who they most respect an nearly all will mention Georg Kacher. It may have something to do with the following...

- He has been writing columns across Europe for more than 30 years
- He is on fist name terms with nearly every German automotive company CEO
- He knows every engineering head, design director and marketing manager in all of the top car companies globally
- He has test driven and written about more cars than probably any other single journalist
- He writes well and is a good thinker
- He gets his facts right and has done so since 1982 when i first discovered his talents (BTW, he was the first person to report Audi developing the 4.0 litre V8)

What I'm saying is that he is the most plugged in man connected to the car industry. And yes, I'm a fan!

Joker, I don't mind front wheels being wider than rears on RS3. It is an elegant solution, but engineers wanted 245s. Same wheels all round would have required wider wheel arches. Audi didn't want to spend the money. If this thing costs £40K then it suggests that VW's premium car brand is made by a bunch of cheapskate bean-counters rather than engineering purists.

[Joker]

Ask any of the top UK motoring journalists who they most respect an nearly all will mention Georg Kacher. It may have something to do with the following...

- He has been writing columns across Europe for more than 30 years
- He is on fist name terms with nearly every German automotive company CEO
- He knows every engineering head, design director and marketing manager in all of the top car companies globally
- He has test driven and written about more cars than probably any other single journalist
- He writes well and is a good thinker
- He gets his facts right and has done so since 1982 when i first discovered his talents (BTW, he was the first person to report Audi developing the 4.0 litre V8)

What I'm saying is that he is the most plugged in man connected to the car industry. And yes, I'm a fan!

Joker, I don't mind front wheels being wider than rears on RS3. It is an elegant solution, but engineers wanted 245s. Same wheels all round would have required wider wheel arches. Audi didn't want to spend the money. If this thing costs £40K then it suggests that VW's premium car brand is made by a bunch of cheapskate bean-counters rather than engineering purists.

CAR did get the RS5 badly wrong on it's choice of engine, but then again the world's economy was on a downer at the time so this meant explain to reasons for not going with the 4.0TFSi.

As for the RS3, I don't honestly know what to think regarding this whole rear arch thing, when a back street repair shop could do it then Audi shouldn't have a problem with it. Who exactly said that the reasons for this was money related?

[darkop]

CAR did get the RS5 badly wrong on it's choice of engine, but then again the world's economy was on a downer at the time so this meant explain to reasons for not going with the 4.0TFSi.

As for the RS3, I don't honestly know what to think regarding this whole rear arch thing, when a back street repair shop could do it then Audi shouldn't have a problem with it. Who exactly said that the reasons for this was money related?
They (CAR) are also stating about new RS7 being v10 5.0l bi-turbo from RS6 - which is utter BS... so not really credible mag along with many others from Britain, as they are full of it about Jags and Astons everywhere you look! Sometimes they get it wright but usually when even the birds know the facts! Somehow the most credible sources come from Holland, wondering how...
RS3 is being built as an answer to the 1M, so only in limited numbers at the end of model cycle! The new A3 comes next year as 2012 model...

[Erik]

Not a big fan of CAR either. I remember the article about them "driving" the latest BMW M3, when they in fact sat in it in a parking lot.
More about making headlines and selling magazines than getting the facts right.

EVO is the preferred choice with less guessing and more driving... :incar::revs:

Just a big disappointment one have to wait 3-4 weeks for the delivery. :snow: (it's actuallt snowing right here now)

[Erik]

What I'm saying is that he is the most plugged in man connected to the car industry.

He only has 34 connections on LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=11578442&authType=NAME_SEARCH&authToken=wNX-&locale=en_US&srchid=345d7579-493c-40c1-b100-c2f46104e2ec-0&srchindex=1&srchtotal=1&pvs=ps&goback=%2Efps_+Georg+Kacher_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*51_ *1_Y_*1_*1_*1_false_1_R_true_CC%2CN%2CI%2CG%2CPC%2 CED%2CL%2CFG%2CTE%2CFA%2CSE%2CP%2CCS%2CF%2CDR_*2_* 2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_ *2).


(I'm sorry, but I had to) :rotflmao:

[Joker]

He only has 34 connections on LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=11578442&authType=NAME_SEARCH&authToken=wNX-&locale=en_US&srchid=345d7579-493c-40c1-b100-c2f46104e2ec-0&srchindex=1&srchtotal=1&pvs=ps&goback=%2Efps_+Georg+Kacher_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*51_ *1_Y_*1_*1_*1_false_1_R_true_CC%2CN%2CI%2CG%2CPC%2 CED%2CL%2CFG%2CTE%2CFA%2CSE%2CP%2CCS%2CF%2CDR_*2_* 2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_*2_ *2).


(I'm sorry, but I had to) :rotflmao:

What is LinkedIn?

Anyway, this is about the RS3 and not what Audi is doing or not doing with the QS. I want to know where this decision to fit smaller rear rubber came from and if it will affect the handling of the car, if the answer to the two part of that question is no it won't then why did someone suggest the engineers wanted wider rubber.

This is something only Qisha or someone inside Audi can truly answer.

[Erik]

What is LinkedIn?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LinkedIn

[tailpipe]

Just to round off the discussion about Georg Kacher, new model specifications are not set in stone before production is signed-off. They can change often and even change back again! Indeed, the RS3 has been an 'off and on' project. According to the Dutch version of German magazine, Auto Motor und Sport, (Erik) the car was cancelled until someone came up with idea of narrower rear wheels. :mech:

As far as other models are concerned. When I met Michael Renz (Audi, Leiter Marketing) at Geneva in 2005, he said that the RS4 model that would follow the B7 would have a twin-turbo V8. Audi believed that TT was the way to go to provide ample power and reasonable economy in a flexible package. In fact, there was a plan to put the new 4.0 litre V8 TSFI in both RS5 and RS4. Clearly, this changed when the world economy went to hell in a hand basket. It was also planned to put the V10 in the S7. That changed to. It would be fascinating to be a fly on the wall at product planning meetings in Ingolstadt. :vhmmm:

Besides all that, half the fun of these forums is to figure out what is coming and when. I wonder to what extent if any we inspire marketing departments to make certain products? Given that Qisha recently asked us what we wanted in future RS products and the superb feedback that came from the thread, maybe our collective thoughts do create value. :deal:

I eagerly await the RS3. I also eagerly await the Quattro concept. Audi is still making fantastic cars.:applause::cheers::bow:

[Erik]

Besides all that, half the fun of these forums is to figure out what is coming and when. I wonder to what extent if any we inspire marketing departments to make certain products? Given that Qisha recently asked us what we wanted in future RS products and the superb feedback that came from the thread, maybe our collective thoughts do create value.

You might be on something...

[Joker]

I have to agree with both of you, Audi do I think listen to what enthusiasts think, though financial restriction still come above anything we might suggest.

But in the interest of seeing what the members want from future S and RS model by means of a thread setup for this very purpose.

Example

Weight reduction
S and RS model :
No more weight than the heaviest petrol A equivalent for the S model yet offering beefier equipment to cope with the increase in power. Where as the RS should offer a minimum 50kg weight reduction over the S model equivalent and reduced height of CoG.

Weight distribution
S and RS Model:
Superior balancing of weight between both axles over the A model equivalent through the use of lighter panels and components.

Quattro proportioning of power between axles
S and RS model:
More rear bias of power in normal driving conditions, i.e. 30/70, plus the inclusion of sportsdiff as standard with the RS model offering a greater ability to throw the tail under throttle load.

S-Tronic
S and RS model:
Both to be offered with launch control and both offering the ability to hold on to the gear instead of shifting up automatically.

[Erik]

The problem with a lot of these changes is that they are things we've been asking for over and over again, for years.

Progress is slow, and comes in too small steps.

For instance: "offering the ability to hold on to the gear instead of shifting up automatically." We had this discussion when the forum was just started, back in 2002.

[Joker]

The problem with a lot of these changes is that they are things we've been asking for over and over again, for years.

Progress is slow, and comes in too small steps.

For instance: "offering the ability to hold on to the gear instead of shifting up automatically." We had this discussion when the forum was just started, back in 2002.

I stand corrected then, Audi might be listening to us but they are working at a slower pace than evolution. :lovl:

But honestly, it's a software re-program which allows an auto gearbox to hold the gear, it's not a problem and should have been added years ago. One thing I did read once which kind of worried me was at the time of the A5 when an Audi representative claimed that they (the engineers) could have made the A5 chassis do anything they wanted, understeer, oversteer or behave neutral but the decision was taken to make it understeer because that was what Audi customers wanted. If that was indeed the case then Audi might be listening to the masses but they sure as heck aren't listening to the enthusiast.

[Erik]

I don't think the problem is doing the software, it's probably more of a problem inside the walls of the specifier...

Listening to the masses sells cars...

[Qisha]

...asymmetric layout or not, wider wheel arches... :vhmmm: ...sneak a peak and be your own judge. :thumb:

http://up.picr.de/5484246.jpg
http://s1.up.picr.de/5484247.jpg
http://s2.up.picr.de/5484249.jpg
http://s3.up.picr.de/5484251.jpg
http://s4.up.picr.de/5484253.jpg
http://s5.up.picr.de/5484256.jpg
http://s6.up.picr.de/5484258.jpg
http://s7.up.picr.de/5484261.jpg
http://s8.up.picr.de/5484263.jpg
http://s9.up.picr.de/5484264.jpg
http://up.picr.de/5484252.jpg
http://s1.up.picr.de/5484255.jpg
http://s2.up.picr.de/5484257.jpg
http://s3.up.picr.de/5484260.jpg
http://s4.up.picr.de/5484262.jpg

[Joker]

Thanks for these pictures but I have one question about them.


Why is it being tested with only one exhaust on the left side and not the traditional oval pipes one either side?

[JavierNuvolari]

The man driving that car.....looks a lot like Mr. Balsen!

...his little finger perhaps ???

[Qisha]

...his little finger perhaps ???


The chief himself... :incar:

http://www.fourtitude.com/news/uploads/Features/001__scaled_600_089.jpg

[Erik]

The man driving that car.....looks a lot like Mr. Balsen!


LOL! Made my friday

[Erik]

The chief himself...

And it feels like I have to take back a few of my comments. OR I was completly right (hope not).

In any case: RESPECT! Please tell him. (or if he reads)

[Joker]

As someone seriously considering one, I think the knowledge the Stephan Reil has personally signed off the product means a lot.

Does he normally do this?

[The RS6]

I see larger wheel arches, so that probably means that tires will be of equal size... :)

[tailpipe]

Is Stephan Reil really Mr Balsen and a contributor here? If so, then I am surprised and delighted in equal measure. And if he feels that the RS3 is worthy of the RS badge, who am I to complain?

[ZeroCool]

No, i think Qisha told us, that Stephan Reil drove the car...

Not that he is Mr. Balsen :D

[Ritchy]

Too much imagination tailpipe ! :hihi:

[Erik]

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/Taggen/trd.jpg

[Joker]

I wouldn't be at all surprised to find that Mr Balsen's little finger is in fact Stephan Reil.

[Ruergard]

Nice one Erik. :D

I like that I see i the pictures, thanks Qisha.

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

as i read you are worried about the delay...well... it has a good reason... and all potential buyers will benefit from it. :hahahehe:

Qisha


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IluPwjchKKo

[PANZER]

I wonder if the RS3 is going to have optional Haldex eLSD.
I think it would make the car more dynamic.

[Joker]

I wonder if the RS3 is going to have optional Haldex eLSD.
I think it would make the car more dynamic.

Good question. :applause:

Does the TTRS not have this setup already, I read that Audi claim it's power distribution to be different to normal Haldex, does that mean it matches the 40/60 of the Torsen quattro or is it again different from even it. Also the press are claiming the the S1 will come with Sportsdiff as an option so surely the RS3 which uses the same quattro system will be offered it too.

P.S.
Thanks Qisha for this additional video, that car appears to be taking no prisoners on that section of the ring and the nose of the car looked to be locked on with no noticeable movement.

[PANZER]

Good question. :applause:

Does the TTRS not have this setup already, I read that Audi claim it's power distribution to be different to normal Haldex, does that mean it matches the 40/60 of the Torsen quattro or is it again different from even it. Also the press are claiming the the S1 will come with Sportsdiff as an option so surely the RS3 which uses the same quattro system will be offered it too.

P.S.
Thanks Qisha for this additional video, that car appears to be taking no prisoners on that section of the ring and the nose of the car looked to be locked on with no noticeable movement.

I dont think the TTRS have it the only car i have read thats uses eLSD is Opel insignia ,i think TTRS only uses a standard Haldex Gen IV.
The Insignia also uses Haldex XWD which also uses a coupling up front so it can send up to 90% torque to the backwheels vs only 50% for the standard Gen IV as i have understand it.
Maybe it would be a good idea to have XWD on the RS3 as well.

And with XWD i think it maybe would be possible to add an eLSD up front to and have total control over all wheels but obviously adding more things will also cost in money and weight.

I have also read that Haldex is developing an eLSD for fwd cars only called FXD they tested one on a Scirocco in a 24hour Nurburgring race.
I wonder if they going to develop a eLSD for RWD cars to?

[LittleDevil]

finally :) THE picture from an Austrian Dealer...

http://nicerl.members.cablelink.at/rs32011.jpg


Do you have link of untouched picture :)

[ZeroCool]

the user corrected it ... i saw the untouched picture...

nothing special....S1 delayed without date because of changed setup
A1 with 185 PS (which we saw in Paris)
The R8 Spyder and some other cars...

Nothing else interesting ;)

[Joker]

I dont think the TTRS have it the only car i have read thats uses eLSD is Opel insignia ,i think TTRS only uses a standard Haldex Gen IV.
The Insignia also uses Haldex XWD which also uses a coupling up front so it can send up to 90% torque to the backwheels vs only 50% for the standard Gen IV as i have understand it.
Maybe it would be a good idea to have XWD on the RS3 as well.

And with XWD i think it maybe would be possible to add an eLSD up front to and have total control over all wheels but obviously adding more things will also cost in money and weight.

I have also read that Haldex is developing an eLSD for fwd cars only called FXD they tested one on a Scirocco in a 24hour Nurburgring race.
I wonder if they going to develop a eLSD for RWD cars to?

I thought SAAB also used the Haldex XWD system, though I might be wrong.

Anyhow, I am sure I read the Audi's TTRS also shifted more power rearward than any other Haldex equipped Audi. This is what Audi UK said regarding the quattro setup in the TTRS


In addition, the quattro drivetrain has been upgraded for the TT RS allowing, if necessary, 100% of the power to be guided to the front or rear wheels. This enables you to make the most of the car’s incredible torque by, for instance, pulling out of bends even sooner.

I don't know if it comes with any form of limited slip diff but I believe this is what is being offered and called 'sportsdiff' when the S1 is finally released. According to press info the new Lamborghinis are to start using this latest form of Haldex so it might be much better than many people think of it.

[PANZER]

I thought SAAB also used the Haldex XWD system, though I might be wrong.

Anyhow, I am sure I read the Audi's TTRS also shifted more power rearward than any other Haldex equipped Audi. This is what Audi UK said regarding the quattro setup in the TTRS



I don't know if it comes with any form of limited slip diff but I believe this is what is being offered and called 'sportsdiff' when the S1 is finally released. According to press info the new Lamborghinis are to start using this latest form of Haldex so it might be much better than many people think of it.

Yes you are correct about Saab also have XWD what i mean was that i only know that Opel Insignia is using eLSD.
You are maybe right on the TTRS but i can not remember about that fact.
I have mailed Haldex for a list of cars that uses witch setup we will see i they answer.

Yeah Lamborghini will also start to use Haldex maybe it will be the Gen 5 that comes out in 2012.

[Joker]

^ I hope someone like Qisha could explain what is unique to the RS version of their Haldex compared to the rest of other Audis. So far from what Qisha has posted in video form the RS3 looks like it can really grip, plus that 5cyl throaty note is pure music to my ears.

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Thank you for explaining the delay to the RS3. You might mention to your friends at quattro Gmbh that given the reduced gap between the arrival of the RS3 and that of the next A3, it would help if the RS3 could have some kind of greater visual differentiation versus existing A3 sportbacks. Flared wheel archres would be appreciated - especially if they enabled 245 tyres all-round.

I am interested to see how this car compares to the Golf R, which itself is supposed to be better than the S3. It seems that VW engineers learned a lot from Audi when setting up the R. I wonder if these changes have been incorporated into current S3s or the RS3?

[darkop]

Question is: Why would anyone care about the RS3 when the new gen A3 is just around the corner??!! (same as with BMW 1M)
Just ridiculous...

[tailpipe]

... simple, because you can't get that engine in any other 5-door hatchback. I said it elsewhere, but the RS3 is all about that engine. Most people will be happy with the 340 ponies generously provided by Ingolstadt. Others, will have seen the engine test video posted by Qisha above and will be wetting their knickers with anticipation at the re-chipping options.

But darkop, you're right, the RS3 is late, late, late. it should have been shown at Geneva 2010 and be out now.

[darkop]

... simple, because you can't get that engine in any other 5-door hatchback. I said it elsewhere, but the RS3 is all about that engine. Most people will be happy with the 340 ponies generously provided by Ingolstadt. Others, will have seen the engine test video posted by Qisha above and will be wetting their knickers with anticipation at the re-chipping options.

But darkop, you're right, the RS3 is late, late, late. it should have been shown at Geneva 2010 and be out now.
Yes and it would have been much more substantial marketing push for ending 8P A3 and halo-car for entire Audi range... I guess it proves that even they are made of human blood which is prone to making flops here and there, even though seeming quite robust and confident in their crusade to World domination - which is inevitable!

[Joker]

Yes and it would have been much more substantial marketing push for ending 8P A3 and halo-car for entire Audi range... I guess it proves that even they are made of human blood which is prone to making flops here and there, even though seeming quite robust and confident in their crusade to World domination - which is inevitable!

World domination is something all manufacturers are after, I doubt Mercedes or BMW will willingly hand over the thrown without a fight. The one saving grace from Audi's perspective is that in the 2.5TFSi they have an engine with more character than it's competitors, great engine that of the M1 will be but if it sounds similar to the 335is will be nowhere near as musical as the Audi which is a major part of any driving experience.

This engine needs to be applied to much more models, either with increased or decreased capacity.

[darkop]

World domination is something all manufacturers are after, I doubt Mercedes or BMW will willingly hand over the thrown without a fight. The one saving grace from Audi's perspective is that in the 2.5TFSi they have an engine with more character than it's competitors, great engine that of the M1 will be but if it sounds similar to the 335is will be nowhere near as musical as the Audi which is a major part of any driving experience.

This engine needs to be applied to much more models, either with increased or decreased capacity.
Don't really agree on this one, despite what ''others'' say... ;)
This jewel needs to be kept only for RS badge, not to be watered down (or up?!) by normal product line applications! The distinction has to be there, otherwise - why all that fuss about the ""RS'' (or "M'' in that respect)?!

[Joker]

Don't really agree on this one, despite what ''others'' say... ;)
This jewel needs to be kept only for RS badge, not to be watered down (or up?!) by normal product line applications! The distinction has to be there, otherwise - why all that fuss about the ""RS'' (or "M'' in that respect)?!

I do fully understand what you mean by keeping it special, but even in the past RS models used engines from the rest of the range, the RS2, RS4Mk1 and Mk2, the RS6Mk1 and the present RS5 all have used engines adapted to their purpose but started life as either an A or S model. You mention the M-Division as an example yet only recently they too have seen that to remain competitive and profittable you need to adapt the engines you have, without the huge cost of R&D the comes with a unique engine.

I want/love to see the 5cyl engine replace the space in all Audi ranges that the v6 occupies, to return Audi to that sound that everyone knew was an Audi driving past even without having to lookup to see what it was. The engine is quite capable of dropping down to a 2lt size and could possible approach 3lt with increased stroke and bore, plus the engine has been proving to be tunable to over 700hp and is probably reliable even in current form to at less the 450hp mark of the RS5 and possible beyond.

I think it would be a crying shame for this engine to remain the privilege of only the RS brand.

[ZeroCool]

10423

is this maybe the new A3?? :)

[tailpipe]

With the new A3 following very closely behind, I am beginning to have doubts about getting an RS3 when it finally debuts next year. If I decide to get one, i'll be buying a car that will be obsolete within months of purchase. It is the perennial RS problem - cars released way too late in the production cycle. We all complained about this back in 2005 with the RS4. That too was late and didn't finally hit the streets until early 2006. When it did arrive, it was peerless and genuinely set new benchmarks for the category. However, within months of it appearing, new generations released by familiar competitors ended its short-lived lived reign. The new M3 wasn't available with AWD or as a wagon, but Audi RS bragging rights in the local golf club, bar or among friends were not exactly enduring. The B8 S4 and C63 AMG C-Class also arrived indecently soon after the RS4. The problem isn't just about kudos that was lost way too quickly, the depreciation was eye watering. To be honest, I find this infuriating.

What adds to my apprehension is that the new A3 needs to be and is expected to be a significant step forward versus the old one for Audi to maintain a growing lead over BMW. The next A3 will be lower, wider and slightly longer than the present one offering more interior space, greater comfort and superior dynamics. The chassis and suspension set-up are expected to lay to rest criticism of the current A3's ride and handling. New engines will offer better economy as well as more go. The interior will also be a step-up with a brand new MMI satnav system providing state-of-the-art route guidance. in other words, it'll be a much better car.

Initially, the new A3 will only be available as a 3-door model and, of course, the RS3's 5-cylinder motor won't be available either. And while the RS3 based on the current model will presumably leave it for dead in a drag race, it is important to remember that performance is only part of the total equation. One reason Audi and BMW respectively are only making 2,700 examples of the RS3 and M1 respectively is because this may be all they can sell.

As things stand, there is a good chance of other manufacturers peeing on Audi's firework come Geneva 2011. My message to Audi's marketing men is this: stop messing about and release this car already.

[darkop]

^Totally well put! Hope someone is listening...

[Benman]

^Totally well put! Hope someone is listening... Ditto that!

[Fab]

Nothing really new indeed. This is just that after the euphoria of the RS3 announcement everyone gets back to reality even you Tailpipe... Not a critic against you Tailpipe of course but your above statement significantly contrasts with your recent excitment, but this turnaround is fully justified and brings you back to the roots of Audi RS issue : too late, to comon, to expensive... to much marketing driven.

Let us hope that selling numbers will tell Audi that something is definitely wrong. Does anyone have RS5, TT RS selling numbers so far (global or per countries) ?

[tailpipe]

Fab,

I think the problems with the TT-RS and RS5 are different. The TT-RS is an exceptional car; the problem is its price. The RS5 is also too expensive as well as being dynamically inferior to a number of competitors. A big part of an RS car's appeal was that it offered outrageous performance in a discrete-looking car that humbled proper sports cars costing twice the price.

I am sure the RS3 will deliver an electrically charged performance, albeit in an old chassis. The problem is that this car has been in development way too long. I mean, how long does it take to sort such a car when the TT-RS is based on the same platform and uses many of the same components?

We were all set for a September release. It made perfect sense. Another six months wait is just dumb. Audi has not managed customer expectations well. What makes the RS3's lateness a particular problem for anyone in the UK is that VAT goes up from 17.5% to 20% in January. So the car will receive a price rise before it even gets launched. I tend to keep cars for 2-3 years, so that kind of extra wait represents a significant percentage of the total time I would keep the car.

[Joker]

Even if the RS3 is exceptional in every way it will still have some issues that will effect it's appeal to me at least. The RS4 was a perfect example of this, it far exceeded expectations in terms of dynamic ability but as soon as the B8 replacement was launched and especially with the release of the S4 it's looks and technology started to look dated, the fact that the S4 gets so close to it at a fraction of the price and from a newer package sealed it's fate with me.

I imagine the new A3 will repeat the same as the A4 has done, it's going to be fresher in design, offer better package with the latest technology on offer and when the S3 comes within the first year it will probably be pushing out close on 300hp and have the benefits on a superior chassis to work on.

Audi really need to listen to the enthusiast regarding their RS models as these are the ones bought by enthusiast, not someone looking for a quicker than normal Audi.

[tailpipe]

I agree, Joker. The comparison of the B7 RS4 with the B8 S4 is well made. And to think that they didn't even plan a B8 RS4 until recently. If the next S3 has all the advantages you suggest, then the RS3 will become very pointless very quickly. But before we give up on the RS3 entirely, we need to remember that its raison d'etre is the 5-cylinder engine. It won't be seen anywhere else any time soon.

BMW just doesn't make the same mistakes. Why can't Audi get it's product planning right?

[darkop]

I agree, Joker. The comparison of the B7 RS4 with the B8 S4 is well made. And to think that they didn't even plan a B8 RS4 until recently. If the next S3 has all the advantages you suggest, then the RS3 will become very pointless very quickly. But before we give up on the RS3 entirely, we need to remember that its raison d'etre is the 5-cylinder engine. It won't be seen anywhere else any time soon.

BMW just doesn't make the same mistakes. Why can't Audi get it's product planning right?
Very wrong with this one... Actually BMW(along with many other morbid mistakes they made lately) did it before with announcement of 1M Coupe also at the end of 1er life cycle, which triggered Audi to call upon the release of the RS3...

[Joker]

^ I'm not entirely sure when the 1 series is replaced but I think it's later than the A3?

Another thing, both the RS3 and M1 are due around the same time but at least BMW have offered it's car to the press for first impressions. When will Audi offer the RS3 up for a similar comparison?

P.S.
Though the 1M has been driven the reviews so far haven't set the world on fire, with most giving it 4 stars out of a possible 5. Is BMW testing the water with this spec to see if it's good enough and may up things a little come the finish product?

[LittleDevil]

That is nothing unusual from Audi. I heard that A3 sportback is still pretty popular and I think that's why they decide to wait a little bit with RS3. Also it will be really interesting to see RS5 customers when Audi A5/S5/RS5 will be facelifted in less than 1 year. Alot of them will be really angry :)

They did the same with Q7 V12 TDI. I think it was less than 1 year and Q7 was facelifted (LED lights....)

Kind Regards

[darkop]

That is nothing unusual from Audi. I heard that A3 sportback is still pretty popular and I think that's why they decide to wait a little bit with RS3. Also it will be really interesting to see RS5 customers when Audi A5/S5/RS5 will be facelifted in less than 1 year. Alot of them will be really angry :)

They did the same with Q7 V12 TDI. I think it was less than 1 year and Q7 was facelifted (LED lights....)

Kind Regards
I don't think we will see much of a change on RS5 than just update on head/rear lights to bring them more inline to recent more fluid look of LED strips in front and tubular solution at the back, similar what we have on A1/A7/A8 and R8 V10. So no need to worry about those...

[tailpipe]

Very wrong with this one... Actually BMW(along with many other morbid mistakes they made lately) did it before with announcement of 1M Coupe also at the end of 1er life cycle, which triggered Audi to call upon the release of the RS3...

Yes, BMW's M1 seems to have echoed Audi's lamentable long lead time and general uncertainty. To BMW's credit, the M1 was never part of the 1-Series plan. It was a response to customer feedback.

The M3 and M5 are now established members of their respective model line-ups. They consistently appear early in the product cycle and are usually best-in-class versions when they arrive. But thank you, Darkop, I have decided to write directly to Ferdinand Piech about this. I look forward to telling you what response I get, if any.

[LittleDevil]

I don't think we will see much of a change on RS5 than just update on head/rear lights to bring them more inline to recent more fluid look of LED strips in front and tubular solution at the back, similar what we have on A1/A7/A8 and R8 V10. So no need to worry about those...

I heard that multimedia MMI will be changed, mybe they will ofer full LED front lights. I'm sure that RS5 owner's won't be really happy when they will see that they have "old" version or RS5. That is only my opinion.

[Joker]

Yes, BMW's M1 seems to have echoed Audi's lamentable long lead time and general uncertainty. To BMW's credit, the M1 was never part of the 1-Series plan. It was a response to customer feedback.

Why are you assuming that BMW only decided on the M1 at the last minute? Let me explain what I mean. BMW released the 335iS a while ago and it's been very well received by public and press, for all we know this project was planned relatively early on only under a different name. Maybe they decided to change the project importance late in the development that's all, meaning the car might have originally been destined to be the 135iS like the 3 series of the same name but with Audi's long running plans to introduce an RS3 might have caused BMW to reconsider and get M-Division involved. After all there doesn't appear to be that much development work done or fabricating of parts, the rear suspension and diff was just transplanted from the M3, the engine is effectively the same unit in the 335iS. Just some minor tweaks of bodywork, a few tweaks to the front suspension and steering rake and Bobs your uncle, one M1 ready for sale in what appear record time.


The M3 and M5 are now established members of their respective model line-ups. They consistently appear early in the product cycle and are usually best-in-class versions when they arrive. But thank you, Darkop, I have decided to write directly to Ferdinand Piech about this. I look forward to telling you what response I get, if any.

The M3 is the biggest selling hi-performance model bar none, so unlike Audi this car makes up a sizable chunk of the overall 3 series sales, the M5 does the same but in much smaller quantities. This is the market that Audi need to get into, but will we all be willing to have a much more common RS? I kind of like the idea of driving something kind of exclusive which the present RS models are, all Audi need to address is give the RS a sizable performance difference from the M like it use to and up the performance of the S to fill the void and once again take the fight to BMW's M like it use to do.

P.S.
Give Ferdinand Piech my best. :thumb:

[Fab]

Fab,

I think the problems with the TT-RS and RS5 are different. The TT-RS is an exceptional car; the problem is its price. The RS5 is also too expensive as well as being dynamically inferior to a number of competitors. A big part of an RS car's appeal was that it offered outrageous performance in a discrete-looking car that humbled proper sports cars costing twice the price.

I am sure the RS3 will deliver an electrically charged performance, albeit in an old chassis. The problem is that this car has been in development way too long. I mean, how long does it take to sort such a car when the TT-RS is based on the same platform and uses many of the same components?

We were all set for a September release. It made perfect sense. Another six months wait is just dumb. Audi has not managed customer expectations well. What makes the RS3's lateness a particular problem for anyone in the UK is that VAT goes up from 17.5% to 20% in January. So the car will receive a price rise before it even gets launched. I tend to keep cars for 2-3 years, so that kind of extra wait represents a significant percentage of the total time I would keep the car. This what I mean : no matter what the problem is, but there is a problem with RS cars. So now I am driving a Porsche.... Some C63AMG, etc.

[tailpipe]

Fab,

Porsches are truly great machines and the latest models all but eliminate lift-off snap oversteer through clever electronic gizmos. But we're talking about a price of £80,000. An RS3 with 340 bhp and more or less the same weight, might not ultimately match the mighty 911 but is likely to come close for just£40,000. That is my idea of an RS car. The problem is not strictly the car or its dynamic capabilities, merely the timeline for pushing it out into the marketplace.

Totally off topic, but the new Mittel-Motor platform destined to be used by VW, Audi and Porsche is apparently going to lead to a sub-Boxter model with a flat-4 engine developing 300 bhp. Now that will be a very nice car. I'm also hearing of a new rear mid-engine coupe to fit in between 911 and 918 Carrera.

[Fab]

My above comment simply means that I am out of RS cars not that I am comparing a 911 to an RS as there is nothing to be compared anyway... I simply re-re-re confirm that many Audi enthusiastics are (unfortunately) gone.

[rs-6]

The only way for Audi to avoid the "it's going to look old after 1 year" and "it uses old technology" arguments is to make sure that it (1) looks very different then the current model (for example like the photoshop by AMS germany) and (2) use both new technology both in the interior and the things that are invisible for the eyes(more power to rear by using TorSen or the next-gen Haldex, suspension etc.). Basicly making it a "30 years of Quattro"-car.

[Joker]

The only way for Audi to avoid the "it's going to look old after 1 year" and "it uses old technology" arguments is to make sure that it (1) looks very different then the current model (for example like the photoshop by AMS germany) and (2) use both new technology both in the interior and the things that are invisible for the eyes(more power to rear by using TorSen or the next-gen Haldex, suspension etc.). Basicly making it a "30 years of Quattro"-car.

Well according Autoexpress the RS3 will get the more advanced Haldex system you are asking for which they claim allows up to 85% of the power to be transferred to the rear wheels and once there it will had a torque vectoring rear diff to split the power even further. It's also to receive Magnetic Ride suspension as standard.

So the technology is there, all that's needed is the looks and so tasty goodies inside to make it unique enough.

[darkop]

Well according Autoexpress the RS3 will get the more advanced Haldex system you are asking for which they claim allows up to 85% of the power to be transferred to the rear wheels and once there it will had a torque vectoring rear diff to split the power even further. It's also to receive Magnetic Ride suspension as standard.

So the technology is there, all that's needed is the looks and so tasty goodies inside to make it unique enough.

Technology and looks have never been a question for RS cars... Just the time scale which makes some of them obsolete (to some of us :))!

[tailpipe]

The only way for Audi to avoid the "it's going to look old after 1 year" and "it uses old technology" arguments is to make sure that it (1) looks very different then the current model (for example like the photoshop by AMS germany) and (2) use both new technology both in the interior and the things that are invisible for the eyes(more power to rear by using TorSen or the next-gen Haldex, suspension etc.). Basicly making it a "30 years of Quattro"-car.

Good post.

[Ritchy]

http://www.worldcarfans.com/110110529377/audi-rs3-to-get-25-liter-5-cylinder-engine-with-350-ps

[tailpipe]

Auto Express got the pictures from here. World Car Fans is basically regurgitating what RS6.com published. So this article tells us nothing we don't know already. According to the dealer new model information communique, also published on this thread, the quoted output was the same as the TT-RS, not 10 bhp more.

I just saw the new Audi A1. Although it isn't for me, it is an impressive car with superb ergonomics and even better build quality. A great range of powerful yet frugal engines makes it a sophisticated and desirable car. I love the LED lights; they're ultra cool. It really moves Audi's game on. The best thing about the little A1 is that it confirms the next A3 will echo the same themes in a larger car with better internal space and equally attractive styling.

Meanwhile, the current A3 is all but prehistoric. It will not only look even more dated when new A3 arrives, its tech will be equally state-of-the-ark. For all these reasons, the RS3 has to mix new tech into the old chassis as well as being visually very different from a cooking S3 Sportback. I don't know if the black, blue and orange mules are anything to go buy, but they seem to suggest not much more than a 2.5 litre engine slapped into an existing Sportback chassis. Personally I'd love to see some bulbous wheel arches, loads of LEDs and a new satnav system as well as the latest haldex AWD system and trick aluminium suspension components.

How do we generally feel about this car, now? Is it a buy or no buy?

[Joker]

^ Autoexpress are claiming the RS3 is getting the very latest Haldex system that can shift up to 85% of the power rearward and that it will be offered with a form of sportdiff.

If all of this is indeed true then it will be one heck of a good handling thing.

[PANZER]

^ Autoexpress are claiming the RS3 is getting the very latest Haldex system that can shift up to 85% of the power rearward and that it will be offered with a form of sportdiff.

If all of this is indeed true then it will be one heck of a good handling thing.

Sounds promising.

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

you might want to know that the Press Cars are already build. Time is ticking... :hihi:

Qisha

[rs-6]

Will I be able to order one for christmas?

[tailpipe]

Qisha has all our complaining here about the late release of the RS3 been heard by Audi / quattro Gmbh?

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

initially the RS 3 was tend to be a compensation for the not coming RS 4 Avant (B8). This was planed as many long year customers complained about a missing 5 Door RS successor and the success of the RS 5 was not for sure by the time this decission was made. As you might already know, the RS 5 is selling well and with the market introduction within the USA next year the numbers are tend to grow. Therefore the RS 4 Avant (B8) has seen the green light. As it looks right now the limited quote for the RS 3 will be sold out quite quickly, as the total package as well as the market price are going to be truly reasonable.

The RS 3 is for sure not only about the engine, since it is the first RS car in this class, it will receive a wider judgement... and this has been foreseen and took influence on the whole project.

Qisha

[darkop]

Dear Friends,

you might want to know that the Press Cars are already build. Time is ticking... :hihi:

Qisha

Our dearest friend Qisha,
your ''time is ticking'' we already experienced few months ago (August I believe?!) when you promised we would see new 4.0TFSI ''very soon'' either in S7 or S8... Since that time many days passed and we still live in anticipation and despair, so I beg you this time - unless you have got concrete dates/confirmation - don't play with our minds/hearts as it needs only a small drop of liquid called ''hope'' for them to start pondering again, which is not really good for anyone's health in here!
Yours sincerely,
D

[Joker]

Dear Friends,

initially the RS 3 was tend to be a compensation for the not coming RS 4 Avant (B8). This was planed as many long year customers complained about a missing 5 Door RS successor and the success of the RS 5 was not for sure by the time this decission was made. As you might already know, the RS 5 is selling well and with the market introduction within the USA next year the numbers are tend to grow. Therefore the RS 4 Avant (B8) has seen the green light. As it looks right now the limited quote for the RS 3 will be sold out quite quickly, as the total package as well as the market price are going to be truly reasonable.

RS5 = £57K
RS4 Avant = probably £53K
TTRS = £43K

By the way you are talking the RS3 will probably retail at £37-38K and come with all the goodies to make it an accomplished driver's car. :jlol:


The RS 3 is for sure not only about the engine, since it is the first RS car in this class, it will receive a wider judgement... and this has been foreseen and took influence on the whole project.

Qisha

I am not at all surprised by this statement because the hothatch market already has some serious accomplished drivers cars like the Scirocco R, Golf R, Megane Coupe 250 & 250R to name but a few and with the soon to be launched M1 coupe which is probably it's closest rival and likely to raise the bar further Audi needs the RS3 to be meet with universal praise. How this will be achieved must be through the addition of a superior awd system than in the S3 and the inclusion of some form of sportdiff, after all these things are being suggested as part of the S1's arsenal.

[tailpipe]

Thank you Qisha. I look forward to the RS3 with much anticipation.

[Joker]

Thank you Qisha. I look forward to the RS3 with much anticipation.

That was short and sweet, we are so use to your elaborate replies that I was wondering if you're short for time or your fingers are hurting? :lovl: (j/k)

[rs-6]

look what I found: wooohooo :applause:

http://www.autoweek.nl/autonieuws/15346/Audi-RS3-staat-om-de-hoek

[tailpipe]

This article is yet another one based on old information plagiarised by Auto Express because they had no information themselves. The pictures were also released elsewhere months ago.

I am just wondering whether Audi will bring the release date forward to January instead of March? A pre-Christmas presence would be a welcome pre-Christmas present.

[rs-6]

This article is yet another one based on old information plagiarised by Auto Express because they had no information themselves. The pictures were also released elsewhere months ago.

I am just wondering whether Audi will bring the release date forward to January instead of March? A pre-Christmas presence would be a welcome pre-Christmas present.

My apologies. As I am a real audi-enthousiast and I didn't see those pictures yet, I thought that they where new. I would also strongly advise Audi to launch it NOW so we can order it as a christmas-gift for ourselves. :hihi:

[tailpipe]

I didn't mean to sound irritable, rs-6, i just share everyone's keeness for this car to arrive. The car magazines are all looking forward to it too. It is getting hard to add anything interesting to this thread without further details being released by Audi. i wish they'd tease us with small snapshots of various details.

[S6V10Avant]

It is such a shame that all RS model are brought out at the end of the life-cycle, contrary to Mercedes (AMG) and BMW (M). I believe many potential RS customers are lost due to this. Hopefully Audi will adopt another launch strategy within short?

[ZeroCool]

it's just for the "old" models...

you see that the TT-RS and RS5 are already shown...even if it's not the end of lifetime ;)

[tailpipe]

It's all gone very quiet on the RS3 front. Is this car real or just a figment of our imaginations? Perhaps Audi will introduce it only after the new A3 has been launched? Qisha recently told us that the Press cars were being built. Seems a long time ago already.

[Joker]

It's all gone very quiet on the RS3 front. Is this car real or just a figment of our imaginations? Perhaps Audi will introduce it only after the new A3 has been launched? Qisha recently told us that the Press cars were being built. Seems a long time ago already.

Since most car magazines are monthly and their alotted time have probably already been accounted for at least two weeks in advance I reckon it will be next month, possibly Jan'11 before to see anything.

[rs-6]

I'm glad to see that I'm not the only one who is really nervous about this!

[Joker]

I'm glad to see that I'm not the only one who is really nervous about this!

What's to be nervous about?

Qisha has said the press cars are built which means it's only a matter of weeks till the first views come out. At that time I think we will know the launch date which I doubt will be too distance either.

[Erik]

Big performance in a small package: the Audi RS 3 Sportback

• Five-cylinder turbo delivering 250 kW (340 hp) and 450 Nm (331.90 lb ft) of torque
• Zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.6 seconds, superior pulling power
• Seven-speed S tronic, quattro drive and 19-inch wheels

Blazing performance, compact size. Audi has added a new model to its dynamic RS series: the RS 3 Sportback. In the great tradition of the brand, its engine boasts five cylinders and turbocharging technology. From a displacement of 2.5 liters come 250 kW (340 hp) of power and 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) of torque, with an average fuel consumption of just 9.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (25.85 US mpg).

Power is transmitted to the road via a seven-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. 19-inch wheels and fenders made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) underscore the Audi RS 3 Sportback’s position of distinction.

Power and sound: the engine

Each Audi RS model represents the pinnacle of its model line – the RS 3 Sportback, developed by quattro GmbH, now brings this dynamic philosophy to the compact category. It rockets from a dead stop to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.6 seconds – a performance figure unrivaled by the competition. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Even so the compact car, weighing in at only 1,575 kilograms (3,472.28 pounds), uses on average just 9.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (25.85 US mpg) and emits 212 g CO2 per km (341.18 g/mile). This efficiency is due in large part to a delivery-on-demand oil pump and a regenerative system that recovers energy as the car decelerates.

The 2.5-liter engine in the RS 3 Sportback will thrill passengers thanks to its tremendous pulling power and its voracious revving up to 6,800 rpm. The guttural roaring and growling, backed by the signature rhythm of the five-cylinder firing order make up the classic Audi soundtrack. A sound flap in the exhaust branch intensifies the sound even further. The flap is controlled via the standard Sport button, which also varies the engine response.

Powerful five-cylinder engines have a long legacy at Audi. In the 1980s, racing cars and production cars used them to edge out the competition. Even the first Audi RS model, the 1994 RS 2, had a
five-cylinder engine. The 2.5-liter unit, already part of the TT RS specifications, now redefines the state of the art, having recently been named “International Engine of the Year” by a high-ranking jury of automotive journalists.

The 2.5 TFSI delivers 250 kW (340 hp) from a displacement of 2,480 cc: a specific power output of
100.8 kW (137.1 hp) per liter. The maximum torque of 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) is readily available at the low end of the rev range, around 1,600 rpm, and remains constant up to 5,300 revolutions. These general parameters yield excellent acceleration and elasticity values.

Just 49 centimeters (19.29 inches) in length, the five-cylinder unit is ultra-compact, tipping the scales at a mere 183 kilograms (403.45 pounds). The crankcase is made of vermicular-graphite cast iron, a high-strength yet lightweight material. Audi is the first car maker to use this material in a gasoline engine. Perfectly placed reinforcements further enhance the block’s loadability. The lightweight-design concept keeps the Audi RS 3 Sportback’s weight in check and pays off big in terms of axle load distribution and, ultimately, handling.

The large turbocharger generates up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure. The intercooler downstream achieves an efficiency rate of over 80 percent. Like all Audi gasoline turbos, the 2.5 TFSI combines turbocharging technology with FSI direct injection. The marriage of these two technologies facilitates a high compression ratio (10.0:1) along with a correspondingly high efficiency ratio. Flaps in the intake tract mix the air as it flows in. The two camshafts, each adjustable by 42 degrees of crankshaft rotation, also enhance the efficiency of the mixture formation.

Speed and grip: the drivetrain

The compact seven-speed S tronic transmits power from the five-cylinder engine via three shafts: one drive shaft and two output shafts. Like all dual-clutch transmissions, it comprises two transmission structures. The shifting process is extremely smooth, taking place in hundredths of a second as the clutches switch, with no perceptible interruption of pulling power. Seventh gear is very tall – a measure that reduces fuel consumption.
The driver can operate the seven-gear S tronic in two automatic modes and one manual mode. Gears are shifted using the paddles on the steering wheel or the selector lever. The launch control system manages the sprint from a dead stop, furnishing explosive turbo power with minimal tire slip.
Delivering power to the road with effortless ease, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive grants the RS 3 Sportback traction, dynamics, and stability. Its central component is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, mounted at the end of the propeller shaft to achieve a favorable axle load distribution. Located in its interior is a plate package bathed in oil.
Thanks to quattro, the propulsive power can be distributed to each axle as needed. Whenever slip occurs at one of the axles, an electric pump intervenes at lightning speed to increase the oil pressure. The pump presses the clutch plates together in a continuous fashion, thereby permitting the torque to be redirected accordingly. Thanks to a powerful accumulator, this process takes just a few milliseconds.
Dynamics and safety: the chassis
The stiff body lays the cornerstone for the RS 3 Sportback’s precise handling; the chassis is what makes it happen. The four-link rear suspension – with a track measuring 1,528 millimeters
(60.16 inches) – is anchored to a subframe and features high-strength-steel control arms that allow it to handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately.

Widened to a 1,564-millimeter (61.57-inch) track, the front suspension is a McPherson strut construction, also with a separate subframe. Key components of the construction are made of aluminum. Thanks to its electromechanical drive, the rack-and-pinion steering is highly efficient, with a sporty-direct gear ratio of 16.2:1.

Coil springs and redesigned shock absorbers provide the vertical support. The sports suspension lowers the body of the RS 3 Sportback by 25 millimeters (0.98 inch) compared with the A3. The new range-topping model in the A3 series boasts 19-inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with 235/35 series tires at the front and 225/35 at the rear. The wheels come standard with machine-polished titanium-look styling, but are optionally available in black with a red rim flange.

The internally ventilated disks measure 370 millimeters (14.57 inches) in diameter at the front and
310 millimeters (12.20 inches) at the rear. The front friction rings are perforated for maximum heat dissipation. They are connected by hollow pins to the aluminum brake disk covers, which are encircled by four-piston fixed calipers painted a high-gloss black and bearing RS logos. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) features a Sport mode and can be switched off entirely.

Precisely guided by its responsive steering, the RS 3 Sportback eagerly takes to curves and exits them with agility, stability, and serenity. The stability limit is extremely high, an effortless mastery that rounds off the character of this powerful compact car.

Interior and exterior: dynamic styling

The new top-of-the-line model in the A3 series hints at its explosive potential from the very first glimpse. Together with the xenon plus headlights, the front apron, the anthracite single-frame grill with diamond-patterned styling and the air intakes cut a distinctive figure.

The side view is dominated by the flared front fenders made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), prominent sill panels, exterior-mirror casings in matt aluminum look and a large roof spoiler. A high-gloss black diffusor insert and two elliptical exhaust tailpipes on the left accentuate the styling at the rear. RS 3 badges adorn the single-frame grill and the rear hatch.

The dynamic style is matched in the interior, entirely black and sporting a number of RS 3 logos. The sports seats are upholstered in Fine Nappa leather with silver contrasting stitching; the inlays gleam in Piano finish black or the new Aluminum Race look; the leather multifunction sports steering wheel is flat-bottomed. The selector lever and instruments are specially designed. The driver information system can display the boost pressure and oil temperature as well as a lap timer.
The RS 3 Sportback comes with an array of standard equipment including the Sport button, rear parking system, climate control, chorus radio system, and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights. Audi offers customers a range of optional features: front bucket seats, roof rails in matt aluminum look, and styling packages in black or matt aluminum. Five exterior colors are available, plus an unlimited selection of custom paint finishes.

The new top-of-the-line model in the A3 series is already the fourth Audi model to be built at
Audi Hungaria in Győr, where it is rolling off the assembly line alongside the TT Coupé, the
TT Roadster and the A3 Cabriolet.

Deliveries of the RS 3 Sportback will begin in early 2011. The base price in Germany will be
49,900 euros.

[Erik]

New thread about the now official: http://www.rs6.com/showthread.php/21814-It-s-official!-Audi-RS-3-Sportback?p=201730#post201730