It's official! Audi RS 3 Sportback

[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.


Promoted to article as well - http://www.rs6.com/content.php/27-Audi-RS-3-Sportback

[Erik]

And here are the first and only pictures so far.

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-1.jpg

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-2.jpg

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-3.jpg

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-4.jpg

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-5.jpg

http://www.rs6.com/pics/Audi-RS3-Sportsback-6.jpg

[Joker]

If the price in Germany tranlates to the UK exactly the same then that would put it at £36-37K in the UK top whack.

Now that has pricked my intention. :jlol:

[rs-6]

It's magnificent, when can we configure it Qisha?

[rs-6]

and what about the limitation to 2700: is that official of not? Because I would dare to estimate there's a whole lot more potential for this car than that ammount...

[rs4some]

Plenty of pics of it here

http://www.autogespot.com/nl/item/9464/niet-onverwacht-audi-rs3-sportback.html

[Joker]

Only the rear looks a bit disappointing don't you think, two pipes at one side in not different than the S3 or any other 2.0TFSI A3. The RS3 needed the traditional ovals, one either side to look the part, even BMW got that right with the wee M1.

[rs-6]

Probably based on the RS2-exhaust?

[Joker]

Probably based on the RS2-exhaust?

Oh yeah, I forgot about that. :doh:

But all the same, they seen fit to give the TTRS the trademark exhaust setup and on ever RS model since it was introduced, why switch back when many people base their purchase on many things including visual differences between the lesser models. After all it's some debate that has been on going when discussing the S versions which look no real difference to an S-Line.

I just think it's a missed opportunity.
<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 213px; top: 171px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=opportunity)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[Ruergard]

I like it a lot. :thumb:

[Qisha]

I just think it's a missed opportunity.

Dear Joker,

there is simply no room for a 2-way Exhaust Solution. The same counts for a manual Transmission option. The S-tronic is more compact in its dimension.

Qisha

[Joker]

Thanks for the explanation. It's just a crying shame it couldn't have been done.

Maybe the photos don't do it justice because on checking against photos for the S3 I see that the diameter of the pipes have incresed slightly, so that combined with the different diffuser might just be enough.
<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 931px; top: 53px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=diffuser%20)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[RacerBice]

....for me, this should have been a proper sports hatch. I.e. with three doors. Does anyone know if that'll come too......?

RB

[HKS786]

Remember my chop from a year or so ago? :D Cant wait to see this car in 3 door form with black optik grille and fully colour coded bumpers (not the brushed aluminium touches). That will look sweet.

[HKS786]

Also, if Audi are saying 4.6s to 62mph, that must be conservative. Any word on what real-life figures may be Qisha? :D

[hdtomi]

More pictures: http://www.autoblog.nl/image-gallery?file=Audi/RS3_Sportback_2011/

and 4961 x 3508 pixel: http://audi.hu/hu/letoltesek/hirek/432/

[darkop]

Remember my chop from a year or so ago? :D Cant wait to see this car in 3 door form with black optik grille and fully colour coded bumpers (not the brushed aluminium touches). That will look sweet.
No 3 door option. Just 5 door as you see it now...

Also, according to this http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/259804/audis_rs3_storms_in.html? , the RS4 Avant also confirmed to be out soon...

Cheers

[hdtomi]

Beautiful gallery from audi.de:

http://www.audi.de/de/brand/de/neuwagen/a3/rs_3_sportback/multimedial_erleben.html#source=http://www.audi.de/de/brand/de/neuwagen/a3/rs_3_sportback/multimedial_erleben.tab_0.html&container=tabAjax

and from autogaleria.hu: http://autogaleria.hu/kl.php?kid=65057-Audi-RS3-Sportback-2011

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0065.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0072.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0059.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0003.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0078.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_d_10005.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0062.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0013.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_d_10009.jpg
http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0053.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg

[tailpipe]

Qisha,

Congratulations! It is fantastic. Did you tell them to hurry u and aunch it? Looks like they listened. Bravo. It seems as though Audi has done a magnificent job. I can't wait to drive it. Styling is excellent. Thank you, Audi.

[Joker]

On seeing the high level of standard kit I reckon the price will probably be closer to £40k.

P.S.
Officially 4.6s to 62mph probably on the conservative side, so are we really looking at a 4.2-4.3s to 60mph hatchback. Beat that if you can BMW.

[RXBG]

bada$$ little car. can't wait to see it go against the 135 M or whatever they call it.

[PANZER]

The electronic stabilization program (ESP) features a Sport mode and can be switched off entirely.

Good Audi!:applause:

Too bad it only comes as Sportback and S tronic and has thinner wheels in the back.
Other than that i like it.

[Erik]

Please find some more pictures.

http://www.audi.de/de/brand/de/neuwagen/a3/rs_3_sportback/multimedial_erleben.html#source=http://www.audi.de/de/brand/de/neuwagen/a3/rs_3_sportback/multimedial_erleben.tab_0.html&container=tabAjax

http://autogaleria.hu/kl.php?kid=65057-Audi-RS3-Sportback-2011

Large ones...

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0084.Image.jpg/1024x768_las_vegas.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0027.Image.jpg/1024x768_ars3_d_10017.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0026.Image.jpg/1024x768_ars3_sb_10004.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0065.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0078.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_d_10005.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0062.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg

http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0013.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_d_10009.jpg


http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/a3/rs_3_sportback/my_2011/multimedia.Par.0053.Image.jpg/1680x1050_ars3_sb.jpg

[JavierNuvolari]

Love it!, and would love to know cool facts about the development involved in the car, such as the reason for the rear spoiler shape.

[Joker]

Videos of the RS3 are now surfacing.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7seYPApcgSo&feature=youtube_gdata_player

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCy72-fkwjc&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[Benman]

The specs: Great
Front and rear facia: Great
Five doors: Great

The only thing I can think of that I would have liked added is flared fenders to match the great looks. I am very interested in this car even if it will be dated in 2 years time. :cheers:

Ben :addict:

[ZeroCool]

Qisha,

can you explain in detail why there isn't enough space for the exhaust on both sides?
TT-RS has also on both sides - isn't it the same platform?

[QuattroFun]

Nice overall!

Initial reactions:

+ That engine, the optional buckets with the red stiching and fb-steering wheel look gorgeous , decent std equipment by the looks of it, Sportback, turbo & S-tronic gel so well as a concept, front fenders and front dam are nice
- Weight (what else is new), open questions around suspension and Haldex application, phase out model, why narrower rear tyres (does not seem like a typo after checking audi.de), no typical RS exhaust pipes, rear looks more subtle

[2jm]

Hi.

Nice to hear about new addition to the RS family. Rather disappointed though, great engine but looks are to subtle (normal A3/S3 is pretty ugly car actually especially on the frontside), using same wheels as TT RS and RS5. Seems like the cost efficiency is making Audi less wanted and especially less unique, at least I am checking other options after being hugely disappointed after RS5 and RS3, not to mention the whale RS6. No need to the get rid of magnificient RS4 any time soon. Maybe I have to start looking other manufacturers beside Audi from now on as the RS lineup is looking the same in front and also too much like the standard A/S model.

I'd like to see something new and special every time new model is introduced, at least to see new wheels as before (RS4 B5/B7, RS6 C5/C6 and TT RS) and also flared wheel arches and dual exhaust pipes.

It smells like getting more profit from just a bit different that bulk models. Shame..

[GEN XER]

Probably wont be coming to the US right? This is the first wagon I would buy. I told a friend of mine who has an A3 that if the RS3 came here I would buy one.

[GEN XER]

DAMNIT!!!!!
http://www.insideline.com/audi/audi-deploys-rs-3-sportback-but-not-for-us.html

[Fab]

Very disapointed it looks like a badly tuned A3. Tires of 225 at rear come on why not 205. No double pipe as the RS signature.

The S3 remains a much more logical and armonious package.

For me Audi RS are totally loosing credibility.

[Joker]

Very disapointed it looks like a badly tuned A3.

I actually don't mind the looks, the front reminds me a little of the RS4 which was far more aggressive looking compared to the then S4 than the RS5 looks in comparison to the S5. I see it as a return to form for Audi.


No double pipe as the RS signature.

Me too, it's disappointing no single oval pipe either side but Qisha explained this earlier. In my humble opinion if it couldn't be done then it should have had the same twin ovals at one side as the original RS4 had.

10544

[Erik]

@Joker - I don't know what you do when you input images but it isn't working. Can you please use the traditional way with IMG (image tags) supplied by this forum software? :) Thanks!

[Joker]

@Joker - I don't know what you do when you input images but it isn't working. Can you please use the traditional way with IMG (image tags) supplied by this forum software? :) Thanks!

I did use the traditional way. When I click on the image it enlarges it to full size. :vhmmm:

Here's the link, please try it yourself. :thumb:

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/8805/audirs420001024x768wall.jpg

Edited by Erik ;) please use the IMG tags (pictures) not URL. Cheers

[Chuvips]

Looks are fantastic to me, i only wish it had an option of manual gearbox...

[tailpipe]

Mine ordered. I think it has to be one of three colours: Phantom black, Daytona grey or Suzuka grey. It has to have the matt aluminium package. I like the Misano red but it is a bit over-the-top for me, especially with the red alloys. Only optional extra equipment I need is magnetic ride. Roll on April.

Yes, RS3 is late.

Yes, RS3 is based on a 9-year old platform that will be replaced in a year's time.

Yes, it is expensive for an A3.

Yes, Audi is milking its cash cow for all it's worth.

...but, it is a superb car. No other hot hatch can touch it. We just have to hope that it drives fantastically.

I'm looking forward to it very much.

[Joker]

Mine ordered. I think it has to be one of three colours: Phantom black, Daytona grey or Suzuka grey. It has to have the matt aluminium package. I like the Misano red but it is a bit over-the-top for me, especially with the red alloys. Only optional extra equipment I need is magnetic ride. Roll on April.

Yes, RS3 is late.

Yes, RS3 is based on a 9-year old platform that will be replaced in a year's time.

Yes, it is expensive for an A3.

Yes, Audi is milking its cash cow for all it's worth.

...but, it is a superb car. No other hot hatch can touch it. We just have to hope that it drives fantastically.

I'm looking forward to it very much.

Congratulations on your choice. Don't worry about how it will drive as it's got probably the best engine for it's size and the best transmission out all the dual clutchers. I agree on the MR suspension option, the TTRS is very firm without it. Oh and if you really feel the need for the aluminium pack then I reckon Daytona or Suzuka suit it best if the RS5 is anything to go by.

P.S.
I know this is probably a silly question but did you get any assurance of discount. :hahahehe:

[rs-6]

Will Audi offer a Dark Blue or will we have to pay over 2500 euro to get it trough Audi Exclusive?

[tailpipe]

So far, it looks like only five colours will be available: Ibis white, Suzuka grey, Daytona grey, Misano red and Phantom black. I'd love Audi to add a Dark blue. It would definitely be my first choice colour.

Qisha - I'd love to get an RS3 in deep sea blue, pearl effect. Any chance you could ask for this colour to be added to those already listed? Also, please can we have your inside view on what to expect, now that it is no longer secret. Thank you.

[Benman]

DAMNIT!!!!!
http://www.insideline.com/audi/audi-deploys-rs-3-sportback-but-not-for-us.html Damn, sounds about par for the course...

[Julz RS4]

Once again we will not have the chance in North America to get this cool product from quatto GmbH. :(

[SAF]

Aren't those tailpipes slightly oval?

[Ruergard]

Mine ordered.

Congratulations!

[Erik]

Audi UK

http://www.audi.co.uk/new-cars/a3/rs3-sportback.html

"Oval tailpipes
The twin oval tailpipes can be specified with either a chrome or highly polished black finish and combined with the unique matt black rear diffuser makes the RS 3 Sportback’s intentions clear."

"Twin chrome oval-shaped exhaust pipes"

But they don't appear to be very oval to me.

Is all this really standard equipment? Well done if true!
Driver’s Information System (DIS) with lap timer
Satellite Navigation system – DVD-based
Audi Music Interface (CD changer can be ordered in lieu of AMI)
Mobile telephone preparation – Bluetooth interface




Anyway - 2011 - the year of the small performance cars?

[Joker]

Audi UK

http://www.audi.co.uk/new-cars/a3/rs3-sportback.html

"Oval tailpipes
The twin oval tailpipes can be specified with either a chrome or highly polished black finish and combined with the unique matt black rear diffuser makes the RS 3 Sportback’s intentions clear."

"Twin chrome oval-shaped exhaust pipes"

But they don't appear to be very oval to me.

Is all this really standard equipment? Well done if true!
Driver’s Information System (DIS) with lap timer
Satellite Navigation system – DVD-based
Audi Music Interface (CD changer can be ordered in lieu of AMI)
Mobile telephone preparation – Bluetooth interface




Anyway - 2011 - the year of the small performance cars?

Yeah the UK standard kit is very high, much higher than it is in the TTRS, so if it does only command a price of no more than £40K it will roughly be about £8-10K cheaper than the similarly equipped TTRS. That would put it very cheap and better value than the equivalent S3 which specced like the RS3 would cost approximately £35,500 and that's guessing what Audi might charge for the DVD Satnav and 19" alloys which can't be confriged on this website.

[RacerBice]

Sorry for repeating the question, but do you know whether or not this will ever come as a regular 3dr? Quisha? Anyone?

RB

[Ruergard]

Sorry for repeating the question, but do you know whether or not this will ever come as a regular 3dr? Quisha? Anyone?

RB

From what I've hard. Only Sportback.

[darkop]

no time for that... this is just a limited run of 2700! new model just around the corner... ;)

[JavierNuvolari]

no time for that... this is just a limited run of 2700! new model just around the corner... ;)

And I have to say that I LOVE the idea of a limited run of only 2700 units...i will hope for some of those units to come over here and hope for the owner to take care of it and hope to have money ready for when he decides to sell...that's a hell of a lot hoping i guess.... :S.

[tailpipe]

I was going to ask how forum members expect the RS3 to perform versus the S4, but early comparisons of the RS3's performance figures suggest that it will smoke a BMW M3 in a straight line if not on a track, so perhaps I should be asking how the RS3 stacks up against the RS5?

If Audi gives us an RS3 that beats both the RS5 and M3 for £10,000 less, we'll have very little to complain about. Sorry to labour the point, but the 2.5-litre 5-cylinder increasingly looks like a supersmart engine choice. We can all lament the lack of an RS4 with a glorious V8, but I'm beginning to wonder whether the 5-cylinder motor is the last gasp of the internal combustion engine?

In 2015, several manufacturers will launch fuel cell cars. Meanwhile, we'll see more electric cars with longer ranges (300 miles plus) as lithium ion battery technology gets better. I fully realise that it will be s long time before we see the final demise of petrol-powered cars, but with the end of the road now approaching, I wonder how many manufacturers will invest in big engines? For sure, Audi will deliver its much anticipated 4.0-litre V8 engine, but I think the market for it will be considerably less than previous V8's despite its brilliance. V8s are replacing V12s, V6s are replacing V8s, and L5s are replacing V6s. It is a domino effect of high efficiency that is now demanded across all high performance engines. Beyond Audi's 2.5 L5 and 4.0 V8, who knows what lies ahead?

Personally, I am looking forward to driving a Quattro with an electric motor attached to each wheel. The eerie silence will be disconcerting, but who cares if the performance is electrifying? While we wait for this brave new world to unfold, I'm looking forward to enjoying my RS3. If Audi puts the same engine in an RS3 model based on the next generation A3 platform, it is likely to be 4-6 years before it appears. The driving environment we know today is likely to be a very different place by then. In the meantime, US friends who want the RS3 should petition Audi again. All in all, I think this car is going to be a runaway success for Audi.

[Joker]

I was going to ask how forum members expect the RS3 to perform versus the S4, but early comparisons of the RS3's performance figures suggest that it will smoke a BMW M3 in a straight line if not on a track, so perhaps I should be asking how the RS3 stacks up against the RS5?

Against the RS5 you say. I think there are a few comparison tested that European magazines have conducted against the TTRS (same engine but much lighter) that suggest the TT to be quicker up to the ton (100mph) but after 130mph or there abouts the RS5 holds the upper hand which means the RS3 will probably hold it's own against the RS5 and M3 to the 1/4mile mark but after that it will be a little slower than either and will increasingly fall out of touch. On the plus side one thing we do know is that the TTRS is quicker on the track than the RS5 so maybe the RS3 might also be a little quicker which in turn would place it very close to the times achieved by the M3 also but without a comparison test and some hard data to back this up it is only a guesstimate.

For the price the RS3 is looking like this year's bargain buy among luxury performance brands. :jlol:

P.S.
I think the 2.5L will increasingly be used within the Audi brand to promote performance and efficiency in equal measure.

[tailpipe]

For the price the RS3 is looking like this year's bargain buy among luxury performance brands. :jlol:

P.S.
I think the 2.5L will increasingly be used within the Audi brand to promote performance and efficiency in equal measure.

Yes, very much so.

My only concern about RS3 is how good the quality of the ride and handling will be.

Note to Audi:

1. I'm not crazy about 5-spoke alloys; please can you make 7-arm twin-spoke alloys available as an option in titanium, aluminium or black.
2. Get rid of silver detailing on rear spoiler. It looks like an after-market add-on.
3. Offer car in deep sea blue
4. Make magnetic ride standard

Thank you.

[rs-6]

Couldn't agree more!
Qisha, could yo tell us 2 things: when can we configure(and order) the car and can you give us an insight on the new Haldex, is it the same as the saab XWD?

[Joker]

Couldn't agree more!
Qisha, could yo tell us 2 things: when can we configure(and order) the car and can you give us an insight on the new Haldex, is it the same as the saab XWD?

I don't believe this is Haldex XWD, but it does appear to offer complete transferring of power in either direction. According to some of the press it's a system that in normal situations is 50/50 which isn't the same as normal in the A3 and TT which place almost all the power to the front wheels and constantly shuffle power as called for but can never fully shift more than 50% to the rear.

I have yet to hear or see data stating it's got a rear electronic diff which would make it Haldex XWD, so until Qisha can confirm this I don't think it is.

[tailpipe]

I don't think Qisha is allowed to provide more info at this time. Frustrating for him; frustrating for us. I guess we should be thankful that at least we've now seen the RS3 instead of having to wait until March 2011. It looks as if Audi was worried about potential take-up so decided to release details of it earlier to assess potential sales as well as to maintain interest. I imagine we'll get further titbits of information drip-fed to us until we see it in the metal. How annoying.

I'm sorry Audi, but I still think April is too late. You should have presented this car at Paris and it should be on sale now or January. In fact, I have to say that the entire product planning and launch process has been very lacklustre. Whoever managed the on-off decision to market this model deserves to be sacked. You should have realised you had a hit on your hands when you launched the 5-cylinder 2.5 litre TT-RS. (The only reason this hasn't sold as well as you would have liked is because you were too greedy with the pricing. Fortunately, you realised the error of your ways and generous discounts are now available.) All this 'umming' and 'arhhhing' about whether to make the RS3 seems strange given the success of the Golf R and Ford Focus RS.

I know you adhere to carefully planned new model launches, but you need to be more flexible to adjust timelines when you get things wrong. I urge you to expedite RS3 sales given the age of the platform and its replacement date. Despite the 'go-faster bits', the styling looks prehistoric next to the new A1. With the soon to be released A6 introducing other new styling elements, buyers may be put off the RS3's ancient design. I have to say that I thought you could have added wheel arch blisters. They would also have visually distanced it from the standard A3 and given it greater longevity. look at how the styling of the Lancia Delta Integrale distanced this from the stanard model. Also, wheel arch blisters would allow similar size wheels to be fitted all round. I would happily pay an extra for these features.

I've been talking to a lot of friends about this car. They seem to be evenly split about it. Some think it will be an epic machine with a warp speed continent-covering ability. Others think that it will be as flawed as the S3, which despite its own power hike, didn't garner favourable accolades from the motoring press due to is ride and handling. So, my advice is to get this thing reviewed as soon as possible. Assure us that it will be amazing as want it to be.

BMW is hot on your heels with the deeply underwhelming M1, but equally important, Mercedes-Benz has a new AMG A-Class under development which will be very similar in size to the A3. I remain firmly fixed to my order, but please make sure it arrives on time, on budget and way ahead of expectations.

[S6V10Avant]

The RS3 is a couple of years late. I would never consider this car. The design is not good enough and will be replaced less than a year from its launch. What about the Quattro system? If it is Haldex it will be a terrible ride, at least from my point of view. In a straight line it will probably be entertaining, but this is not enough.

[tailpipe]

The RS3 is a couple of years late. I would never consider this car. The design is not good enough and will be replaced less than a year from its launch. What about the Quattro system? If it is Haldex it will be a terrible ride, at least from my point of view. In a straight line it will probably be entertaining, but this is not enough.

How does the Haldex system impede ride comfort? Please explain why. The same system on the Golf R results in a car with excellent ride and handling, especially with ACC (Magnetic ride). The styling may be dated, but it was never ugly. In my mind, the grille with mesh inserts look good. Overall, the car looks business-like and discrete in a totally non-Subaru way - which I am sure will appeal to many Audi traditionalists (myself included).

[Joker]

How does the Haldex system impede ride comfort? Please explain why. The same system on the Golf R results in a car with excellent ride and handling, especially with ACC (Magnetic ride). The styling may be dated, but it was never ugly. In my mind, the grille with mesh inserts look good. Overall, the car looks business-like and discrete in a totally non-Subaru way - which I am sure will appeal to many Audi traditionalists (myself included).

I has to say that I too was kind of puzzled by those comments. Maybe we are misunderstanding his meaning of ride as ride quality where he meant driving experience. But even at that both the TTRS and the Golf R are rewarding cars to drive quickly, their Haldex does give a different driving experience from that of the Torsen in the other Audis but the fact that they weigh so much less means they are also lighter on their feet and feel more nimble.

Given the choice I would always chose a TTRS over an RS5 any day.

[tailpipe]

Given the choice I would always chose a TTRS over an RS5 any day.

With the 7-Speed DSG gearbox, I think a lot of people would agree with you. The TTRS is a very under-rated car. As I've said elsewhere, the only real problem with it was it's pricing. Even that has now been fixed, albeit unofficially through discounts, and I understand that it is starting to sell well.

I've heard it said that electrical traction systems are now so good that they rival mechanical ones. The latest Haldex AWD system is so sensitive that it can direct drive to whichever axle has more grip more quickly than Torsen. There is no way that Haldex is better than the latest Torsen system (whatever that is) or is it?

[S6V10Avant]

Tailpipe, you are correct, "ride" was more slang than precise wording. I was thinking of driving experience, performance, handling, when driving on and over the (slip) limit. The Haldex system is (in my view) not a proper 4wd system as it is shifting in/out depending on slip. RS models deserves something else.

[tailpipe]

Tailpipe, you are correct, "ride" was more slang than precise wording. I was thinking of driving experience, performance, handling, when driving on and over the (slip) limit. The Haldex system is (in my view) not a proper 4wd system as it is shifting in/out depending on slip. RS models deserves something else.

S6V10Avant,

You are of course, right. Haldex simply isn't as good as the latest AWD system, but it has come a long way since the crude systems of 10 years ago. Occasionally, however, even Torsen can get confused - check out You Tube for some interesting videos of racing Quattros completely losing it during some extreme drifts.

In addition to ordering an RS3, I have also put my name down for an Audi Sports Quattro concept which is to my delight and surprise going to get made. Apparently, it'll sell for the same price as an RS5. This will have a proper Torsen system as well as an updated 5-cylinder engine.

In the meantime, I have been amazed at how the Golf R can hack across a twisty mountain road. It can do everything the old RS4 could do, not quite as quickly, but close enough to be directly comparable. This bodes well for the RS3.

[S6V10Avant]

Good choice Tailpipe, I am also down for the Sport Quattro.

[rs-6]

I have a question which is slightly irrelevant for this topic but maybe interresting for my potential RS3 order: if one takes the 'exclusive lackierung' option (+- 2500 euro) can you get 'any possible colour'? (For example macadamia from Porsche) or do you have to pay even more for that...

[tailpipe]

I believe that there are two types of customer paint choices available. One is the exclusive paint option, which costs £1,700 and lets you choose any colour within the Audi pallette; the other is the custom paint option which allows you to choose any colour you like and costs £2,450.

I like the red and black, but would prefer a deep, dark blue to be offered. I don't think the custom paint option is worth it, but if you gotta have it....

[rs-6]

now that the 1 M Coupé is launched (http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/news/bmw-1er-m-coupe-auf-der-detroit-motor-show-kleiner-m3-mit-340-ps-startet-ab-50-500-euro-3251381.html) we can start comparing these 2 competitors:


RS3 / 1M Coupé
both 340 hp but the 2.5 TFSI has a lot more tuning potential (the 35 engine is supposed to be very 'difficult' to tune, I heard)
0-100 km/h: 4,6 / 4,9
DSG / manual
1575 kg / 1495 kg
4WD / RWD
49.900 euro / 50.500

i guess the real way to compare the 2 will be the lap-time @ the Nurburgring, anyone who knows more? :hahahehe:

[JavierNuvolari]

My perfect -real life- garage has these two cars.

[RXBG]

javi- mis padres llegan a santiago hoy

[The RS6]

both 340 hp but the 2.5 TFSI has a lot more tuning potential (the 35 engine is supposed to be very 'difficult' to tune, I heard)

If I heard well, you heard wrong, very wrong :)

[rs-6]

If I heard well, you heard wrong, very wrong :)

At least about chiptuning 2 chiptuners seperatly said to 'stay off' the z4 35is, so I based my comment on them...

[tailpipe]

The RS3's AWD set-up gives it an extra 80 kg versus the M1. I wonder how that will play out on the track?

Somehow, the RS3 seems to be more measured, more considered, more capable and more desirable than the M1. I hope it eats it for breakfast when they're tested together. For sure, it's one grudge match I'm looking forward to.

Where the hell is Qisha? Input please.

[tvrfan]

Scott26 a BMW insider from bimmerpost.com wrote that the 1 M coupe will leave the TT RS to dead performance wise. also on track. i hope thats not true and just fanboy talk.

[darkop]

All those marketing clones named SCOTT are full of cr8p that only they can believe in, or some blindfolded fanatics, and my advice to you is just to ignore them!

[tvrfan]

:D *thumps up*

bimmerboys are the worst manufactur fanatics i know.

bimmerboys dont love cars, its like satanism and the devil is bmw.

[darkop]

:D *thumps up*

bimmerboys are the worst manufactur fanatics i know.

bimmerboys dont love cars, its like satanism and the devil is bmw.

haha, lol

[Joker]

Scott26 a BMW insider from bimmerpost.com wrote that the 1 M coupe will leave the TT RS to dead performance wise. also on track. i hope thats not true and just fanboy talk.

I think you are misquoting what he said, his actual words were 'I have seen some internal results , leaves the TTRS for dead in driving dynamics and overall enJOYment. And runs close to the Cayman S. (Cayman R might be a different story , though)'

Driving dynamics might mean it's ability to be controlled on the throttle, this is different from being quicker which I very much doubt it is which is why he chose his words wisely. :hihi:

I think BMW should concern themselves with how well it compares to the RS3 before aiming higher up the food chain. ;)

[Erik]

Good to know bimmerboy tested both cars so he knows what he's talking about.

However, this looks quite good.

Anyone care to PS an RS3 Sportsback for us?

http://www.bmwblog.com/wp-content/uploads/special_edition_bmw_1m_coupe_by_jonsibal-d343yk9.jpg

[Joker]

Good to know bimmerboy tested both cars so he knows what he's talking about.

However, this looks quite good.

Anyone care to PS an RS3 Sportsback for us?

http://www.bmwblog.com/wp-content/uploads/special_edition_bmw_1m_coupe_by_jonsibal-d343yk9.jpg


That is one angle where the M1 looks stunning. :thumb:

I actually think it looks more exciting looking than the RS3 but then again one is a 2dr coupe and the other a 5dr hatchback. Now if you were to compare it to the TTRS then it's no contest.

[Fab]

The M1 looks beautifull to me by far nicer than the RS3. No doubt the M1 will be sharper and more exciting.

@ Tailpipe : how can you even think the RS3 will eat the M1 for breakfast... ? I understand you like the RS3 but let us remain objective please.

[doodlebug]

I've been lingering around here for a while. I'm currently looking to replace my R32, really it's our second car, but it has to shift a child and all their stuff and provide some fun when the child isn't in tow. The Golf R doesn't appeal, mainly due to cost, it's nearly £10k more than the R32 I spec'd just over four years ago. It comes in at nearly 40K....that's RS3 money.

The 130 was put up against the R32 by Top Gear in 2006. No contest, the R32 won pretty much on all counts. I don't think it is a given that the 1 series will be the better car. Don't forget it isn't really an M1, it's more like a 135 with some tweaks. The 1 series doesn't appeal at all, it's isn't a good looking car and it barely seats four, the back seats are very cramped. And the interior is far from perfect. The RS3 will be aging platform, but so is the 1 series.

I hope to get a drive in the RS3, if it's good then I could well order. Does anyone have anymore details on UK pricing? There's no detail on options or their prices on Audi UK's site.

[Joker]

The M1 looks beautifull to me by far nicer than the RS3. No doubt the M1 will be sharper and more exciting.

@ Tailpipe : how can you even think the RS3 will eat the M1 for breakfast... ? I understand you like the RS3 but let us remain objective please.

I think new guy doodlebug said it best in that the M1 isn't really an M in the same sense that the others are, it's more like a smaller 335is and that car is no better than an S4, the M1 has an advantage over the 335is in that it's got a LSD which will give it the throttle control of the M3. But I have to agree with you that the RS3 won't eat it for breakfast, for that to happen the RS3 would need to have a healthy power advantage which it doesn't. These cars are very evenly matched in no only price and power but I reckon performance as well.

[Fab]

absolutely correct Joker.

The bottom line will be "as usual" BM best driving/involving car with great 6, poor interior and Audi good allround, easy power, great interior but lack of feel.... Pure chrono wise both wil be very even for shure. No surprise here. Then every one goes for what he is looking for.

[Fab]

Personally I like very much what I see especially with some M extras such as buckets.
Good to know bimmerboy tested both cars so he knows what he's talking about.

However, this looks quite good.

Anyone care to PS an RS3 Sportsback for us?

http://www.bmwblog.com/wp-content/uploads/special_edition_bmw_1m_coupe_by_jonsibal-d343yk9.jpg

[Joker]

absolutely correct Joker.

The bottom line will be "as usual" BM best driving/involving car with great 6, poor interior and Audi good allround, easy power, great interior but lack of feel.... Pure chrono wise both wil be very even for shure. No surprise here. Then every one goes for what he is looking for.

Well this might be what I would usually say about an M against an RS but this will be the first proper non SUV M car to have a turbo engine and this rather huge difference might upset the otherwise finest throttle balance. At least with the quattro Audi such things don't upset it's handling the same.

I think it's too early to call this one just yet.

[rs-6]

The questions I really hope that will get answerred in the next few days (sorry that I'm so exited about this but it is frustrating to see that BMW-dealers can tell already much more about the 1 M Coupe than we know about the RS3, even though the RS3 is launched earlyer)
1. When will we see the PDF-pricelist and will the car be on the configurator
2. When will the car magazines and blogs drive the testcar (which were produced already a while ago, I'm reffering to Qisha's post)
3. What is the Nordschleife lap-time, will it be as fast as the 1 M Coupe?
4. Will audi offer more 'decent' colours like Dark Blue, or will we have to take it in Black if we don't want to drive around too flashy
5. There's still some uncertainty about the Haldex, is it now exactly the same as in the TT-RS or is is slightly tweaked (that's what is rumoured on other MB's)
6. Is the car still going to be limited to 2700 pieces?

Please help us out of this misery, Qi...God! ;).

[Kliko]

Dutch carsite Autoblog.nl says that the BMW 1M coupe does the Nurburgring in 8 minutes and 12 seconds....
That is one second quicker than the old E60 M5, and 7 seconds slower than the E92 M3....
It is also 27 seconds quicker than the BMW 135i

Does anyone have times for the RS3? or the TT-RS?

[rs-6]

101. Audi TT-RS Coupe 8:09.00 152 '09 340 / 1450 SportAuto
found this on fastestlaps.com, don't know for sure if this is reliable though...


*edit* it is also mentioned on the site of SportAuto: http://www.sportauto-online.de/rundenzeiten-supertests-1062778.html

if this is trough the RS3 Sportback and the 1 M Coupé will be on par.

[Fab]

if this is trough the RS3 Sportback and the 1 M Coupé will be on par. I expect them to be on par performance wise but they remain two different animals once driven no doubt.

The RS3 engine and its performances are the benchmark for this segment . I love the M1 look especially on the white color (above pic) but the interior seems very poor as usual for a BM.

Coming back to my personal feel about the RS3 : I find it hugly and unfinished i.e. not well thought and developped as a true RS (you all know what I mean by that). How can they fit wider front tires and let the rear with 225 !!! The body should have been much wider and with the RS twin pipes. If it would have come out "properly" I would have been one of the first buyer, but like this no thank you very much !

My personal judgement of course.

[rs-6]

How can they fit wider front tires and let the rear with 225
They did this to avoid understeer...

[tailpipe]

The M1 looks beautifull to me by far nicer than the RS3. No doubt the M1 will be sharper and more exciting.

@ Tailpipe : how can you even think the RS3 will eat the M1 for breakfast... ? I understand you like the RS3 but let us remain objective please.

Okay, Fab, just for you, I'll rise to the bait...

Will the M1 cream a TT-RS and a Cayman? I very much doubt it. if straight-line performance is all you care about, we've seen elsewhere what a chipped TT-RS can do to a V10. So all you need to do is boost output to around 420 bhp and your stock 5-cylinder engine will give you enough beef to roast an M1 and M. On the other hand, if you simply care about point-to-point ability across undulating A and B roads, as I do , then you'll stick to a standard RS3 with Quattro and leave the BMW struggling for grip with its traction control light flashing like a disco light.

On the 10 to 15 dry summer days we have in the UK, the ability to steer the M1 using the accelerator will be appreciated. For the other 355 days when it is wet, slippery and cold, I'll stick to AWD totally predictable handling of an Audi with Quattro. Having owned an E46 M3, I am not deceived by this BMW crap. If you think BMWs are better, you know which site to post on...

When it comes to styling, I have always preferred Audi's understated look. I think the BMW M1 looks hideous and over the top. I don't think this car is going to blow away the RS3. Finally, and decisively, I think owning an Audi is now a much better proposition than owning a BMW in terms of build quality, engineering integrity, component longevity, interior cabin ambiance, and plain badge appeal.

[Ruergard]

Having owned an E46 M3, I am not deceived by this BMW crap. If you think BMWs are better, you know which site to post on...


It's great to see that we have different opinions about the cars, and we are allowed to have them. Here on this community. :)

Please continue. ;)

[Joker]

Dutch carsite Autoblog.nl says that the BMW 1M coupe does the Nurburgring in 8 minutes and 12 seconds....
That is one second quicker than the old E60 M5, and 7 seconds slower than the E92 M3....
It is also 27 seconds quicker than the BMW 135i

Does anyone have times for the RS3? or the TT-RS?

The TTRS did 8:09 which was achieved by Horst from Sportauto, worth remembering that this time isn't a time achieved under test conditions by a manufacturer with their best test pilot behind the wheel. That means the 8:12 will probably become as much as 8:20 in the hands of Horst. This claim by BMW that it's 10 seconds quicker than the old E46 M3 is marketing bull shit at best.

The M1 will be quick but I don't think it's any quicker than the RS3 and it definitely isn't a TTRS killer, far from it.

[RXBG]

Scott26 a BMW insider from bimmerpost.com wrote that the 1 M coupe will leave the TT RS to dead performance wise. also on track. i hope thats not true and just fanboy talk.

scott is on the toilet crying

http://jalopnik.com/5712890/bmw-1-series-m-rounds-nurburgring-slower-than-audi-tt+rs

...although this is nothing more than BS arm racing like the GTR owners do.

[Joker]

I would also add something that I forgot earlier.

27 seconds of an improvement over the 135i and the only real telling differences are a LSD and an extra 30hp, it's got no weight advantage and no real noticable improvement in gear ratios. Nothing that could warrant such a dramatic improvement in lap time, other than one was performed by a test jockey and the other performed by a magazine driver. This is why their claim is bull shit and the laughable thing is that those guys on BMW Forums are genuinely believing all of it as gospel, lapping it up and saying 'please Scott, can I have some more?'.

It's BMW's way to try and justify their considerable asking price over the 135i with their minimum development effort.

[Benman]

However, this looks quite good.

WOW!!!!!!!! I LOVE how that looks!!! Why didn't the RS 3 get flared fenders like those?!?

[Ruergard]

WOW!!!!!!!! I LOVE how that looks!!! Why didn't the RS 3 get flared fenders like those?!?

That's what I wonder. Couldn't they have given it some RS4 B7 fenders?... :vhmmm:

[Fab]

Okay, Fab, just for you, I'll rise to the bait...

Will the M1 cream a TT-RS and a Cayman? I very much doubt it. if straight-line performance is all you care about, we've seen elsewhere what a chipped TT-RS can do to a V10. So all you need to do is boost output to around 420 bhp and your stock 5-cylinder engine will give you enough beef to roast an M1 and M. On the other hand, if you simply care about point-to-point ability across undulating A and B roads, as I do , then you'll stick to a standard RS3 with Quattro and leave the BMW struggling for grip with its traction control light flashing like a disco light.

On the 10 to 15 dry summer days we have in the UK, the ability to steer the M1 using the accelerator will be appreciated. For the other 355 days when it is wet, slippery and cold, I'll stick to AWD totally predictable handling of an Audi with Quattro. Having owned an E46 M3, I am not deceived by this BMW crap. If you think BMWs are better, you know which site to post on...

When it comes to styling, I have always preferred Audi's understated look. I think the BMW M1 looks hideous and over the top. I don't think this car is going to blow away the RS3. Finally, and decisively, I think owning an Audi is now a much better proposition than owning a BMW in terms of build quality, engineering integrity, component longevity, interior cabin ambiance, and plain badge appeal. Not very surprised about the tone of your reply, but more about the content. YOU are the one stating here and there that the RS3 will smoke a 911 or a M1 and that a chipped one will be the king of the street. Please re read your posts...

As you know I recently bought a C4s this tells you precisely what I am looking at : driving pleasure and feel on a true GT car with a true story and not for absolute performance and drage race. If I would be looking for pure perf I could have bought a 911TT (I hesitated) a GTR etc...

If you correctly read all my post I never said anything else than my taste and views based on facts and personal taste. And to me the RS3 is a joke, nothing else than a quick marketing packaging with little RS heritage, hugly tuned, no flared arches, thin rubbers, no twin RS twin pipes, etc. You like it fine for you and enjoy it ! But I think I can openly say and repeat it on this forum as others do as well.

I still love Audi but think they are turning strange with RS modes, so I came out and observe for the time being. I wish to be back soon but defitinitely not with current RS offering.

Do not take my remark that bad. Each one can like any car or model and I respect your choice but let us remain objective as I previously said.



Cheers

[Fab]

That's what I wonder. Couldn't they have given it some RS4 B7 fenders?... :vhmmm: Probably Audi was sooooo late and not ready to make chassis mods to then allow it to be wider and more aggressive while remaining subttle as RS models we used to see. A pitty I agree fully.

[Ruergard]

Probably Audi was sooooo late and not ready to make chassis mods to then allow it to be wider and more aggressive while remaining subttle as RS models we used to see. A pitty I agree fully.

I guess so... A shame, the car has potential. But I still think it's very good-looking and I'm happy to see a 2,5 liter hatchback.

[Fab]

great potential for shure and great interior. curious to see one soon in real.

[Ruergard]

great potential for shure and great interior. curious to see one soon in real.

Don't forget to tell us if you do. :thumb:

[Phage]

And to me the RS3 is a joke, nothing else than a quick marketing packaging with little RS heritage, hugly tuned, no flared arches, thin rubbers, no twin RS twin pipes, etc. You like it fine for you and enjoy it ! But I think I can openly say and repeat it on this forum as others do as well.


Not much RS Heritage? Let's have a look at the first Audi RS ...

http://iloapp.alwarzon.com/data/_gallery/public/0/1215083883_resized.jpg

Huge wheel arches... nope
Twin pipes... nope

It actually has more in common with the RS heritage then other current RS cars.
Isn't that what RS cars are (or maybe were) about, biting without a lot of bark?

[Fab]

Good point, the RS2 15 years ago (or so) is the father of RS cars. Discrete and subttle as per 90's standards and will remain an icone : brutal and unique at the time, I very much doubt that the RS3 will become one.

Nowadays RS cars (inspired by the RS2 somehow, probably) have their own visual marks which we all love (RS6 TT, RS4 V8, RS5, TT RS) and I personally find it a pitty that the RS3 external styling did not go a bit closer to the rest of the (modern and 100% RS Audi) range.

[Joker]

I agree with the other poster who made reference to the RS2, the RS3 has much more in common with the past heritage of the breed than most of the current RS models. RS use to stand for wolf in sheep's clothes and turbo power, everything the RS3 is.

If you are to dismiss the RS3 as a marketing exercise to make money at the expense of much R&D then you must feel the same way or probably worse about the M1, after all it's even more of a parts bin monster than the RS3 ever could be.

[Fab]

true they both are.

The M1 interior looks minimum 10 year old, poor and with bad quality plastics and plain seats. The RS3 interior is not even comparable, simply beautifull as Audi knows to make. I prefer the M1 exterior look though.

[Joker]

Well Fab, if you are very disappointed with both the RS3 and M1 even you must be close to despair with your 997, after all it's barely changed in the last 40 years, no car has used the parts bin more. :hihi: (j/k)

But the be serious for a minute, what really is the difference between what Audi and BMW are doing here and what Porsche are doing with the Cayman R?

If you went in order of the car where most parts are different than the rest of the range then the order would be Audi, BMW and Porsche bringing up the rear. Yet no one is complaining about it. :brag:

[Fab]

Well Fab, if you are very disappointed with both the RS3 and M1 even you must be close to despair with your 997, after all it's barely changed in the last 40 years, no car has used the parts bin more. :hihi: (j/k)

But the be serious for a minute, what really is the difference between what Audi and BMW are doing here and what Porsche are doing with the Cayman R?

If you went in order of the car where most parts are different than the rest of the range then the order would be Audi, BMW and Porsche bringing up the rear. Yet no one is complaining about it. :brag:Well you know I am an old fashion guy ;) and thus finally found a sporty Cocinelle issued from last world war.

Being more serious and back to your remark your are right Porsche is also closing its current versions (Cayman and 911) with some “ultimate models” : Cayman RS, 911 GTS and 911 GT2 RS.

Now when it comes to compare how each brand tries to set apart its RS/M models I would rank them as follows : 1) Porsche, 2) Audi, 3) BMW.

A Porsche RS (911 or Cayman) offer ultimate bucket seats, alcantary, sport exhaust (thrilling sound from outside AND inside the car), central lock diff, PASM, roll bar, short shift, central lock wheels, etc. Thus the cars are uncompromised and track oriented which the 2 other brand do not offer to the exception of the R8.

Almost the same for Audi but still based on the best compromised between sport and confort, allround spirit which let us be clear I love. The brand has clearly made great RS products according to their philosophy. Simply the RS3 look is not appealing to me and thus is in my view the disappointing RS model from Audi. This does not mean it is not a good car and I respect anyone likes it of course.

BMW is a bit behind in terms of making their M cars really special. And by special I mean external and internal specific look. Now they lately came out with the M or wathever options such as buckets, engine upgrade, brakes, springs, etc… To me the most negative factor is the quality of the interior eventhough they improved it on the latest models. Then I think it is a question of habit and feeling and so you like it or not. Let us not speak to much about the M3 GT which is an isolated case.

Coming back to Porsche and my personal recent attempt with my C4s that I love, I briefly detail my logic : I have always been attracted by Porsche and by the 911 particularly as most of us (not all of course). So since the RS5 is a bit pricy IMO and waiting was long, and few other reasons, I decided to try the Porsche experience at least once in my life. So I decided to go for a recent but well equipped 911 i.e. good value for money vs brand new to make shure or not the I like or dislike it. After few month now I am absolutely thrilled about this car and know that if all goes well…. I will for shure continue with the brand and upgrade (not now) my current. Yes my MkI does not have the best nav, no led lamp, FSI or the latest goodies but I do not mind as the overall package is amaizing to my taste.

Now knowing myself I suspect I will change in the near future for some latest version of the 911 myth : 911 GTS (great value for money), recent second hand turbo or new 991 but to soon to know as the car is not totally visible so far. This does not mean that I might not be back to Audi RS model range as well : RS4, even RS5 (so beautifull).

Cheers

[Joker]

Call me old-fashoined but when I look at what make a 'special' version of any car the number one item that needs to be different is the engine, it's the one thing that people can relate to as making a car appear unique and different from the rest. Audi have understood this and at the same time stayed true to the RS brand by actually fitted a completely different drivetrain from the rest of the range that is solely an RS engine that is used only by other RS cars. Unfortunately BMW haven't respected their M brand heritage in the same way, deciding to pick one choice item from M parts bin in the shape of the M3DCT rear diff, after that they didn't feel it necessary to offer an M engine instead they stuck the engine from the 335is under the bonnet completely unmodified, the only unique bit of this car is it's appearance on the outside, inside it's a stock 1 series all the way apart for the M wheel, M dials and of course the all important orange stitching. As for Porsche, unless I am mistaken almost all of the items fitted to the Cayman R are available from the options list, including the power hike, in fact the decals are the only unique part on this car.

Based on everything we know about these cars it the RS3 that on the face of it actually offers value for money.


<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 148px; top: 66px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=uniquely)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[Fab]

Based on everything we know about these cars it the RS3 that on the face of it actually offers value for money. This statement depends on what you mean by value. but based on this certainly the M1 is the one offering the less, for shure not the 911 GTS, for the Cayman less obvious.

Now all the above mentionned models will be selling well for shure, the market is there no doubt, so I must admit that simplistically said everyone is happy :jlol:

[rs-6]

1. When will we see the PDF-pricelist and will the car be on the configurator
2. When will the car magazines and blogs drive the testcar (which were produced already a while ago, I'm reffering to Qisha's post)
3. What is the Nordschleife lap-time, will it be as fast as the 1 M Coupe?
4. Will audi offer more 'decent' colours like Dark Blue, or will we have to take it in Black if we don't want to drive around too flashy
5. There's still some uncertainty about the Haldex, is it now exactly the same as in the TT-RS or is is slightly tweaked (that's what is rumoured on other MB's)
6. Is the car still going to be limited to 2700 pieces?

Please help us out of this misery, Qi...God! ;).

The questions still remain after these 2 pages of discussion. (question 3 is partly answered by comparing the 1 M Coupé with the TT-RS, they wil be about as fast around the ring...)

[Fab]

Cannot help too tired writing...

Qisha ???

[RacerBice]

Having read several comments going both ways here, I have to contribute too.

The RS3 looks quite genuine in its exterior design, and the interior is as superb as we already know from A3/S3. But it simply cannot match the M1 for sporting appeal. Period. The M1 looks brutal, much more compact and dynamic than the RS3 and also any M3. Interior wise, it falls short of the Audi mark, but it's still pretty good.

I've owned two S3's, and already these had a slight tendency towards understeer. Just lika any Audi. I don't have the weight figures for the 2,0T and 2,5T engines, but I'd be surprised if the RS3 understeers less. And the narrower rear wheels to me is an indication of an inherent weight distribution problem. Therefore, I reckon the RS3 will not only seem less sporty, it will also feel less sporty.

So although this is an Audi fan-site, I really don't see how anyone could dismiss the M1 as not being able to contend seriously with both the RS3 and the TT-RS (with similar understeer problems). In fact, you'd have to be a pretty one-track minded (not to say narrow minded) Audiologist to do so.

I for my part would have already placed an order for the RS3, had it come as a 3dr too. I could then have lived with it's shortcomings chassis wise, simply because it would have matched the M1 for looks great. And practicality is a concern with the TT-RS. As it is, though, the Sportback version is simply TOO compromised. I also suffer from a peculiar and very annoying hang-up, that makes me hate tiny front doors. A proper sports car doesn't have those. Oh, and I don't give a rat's about Audi history of RS cars being estates. Sc**w that!

So it's TT-RS or M1. Traction and predictability will probably seal the deal for Audi, since those are crucial charateristics in many of our driving conditions here in Sweden as well.....

RB

[Joker]

I didn't notice anyone saying that the M1 wouldn't feel sporty, whether it 'feels' sportier than either the TTRS or RS3 greatly depends on what makes a car feel sportier to you. I'm guessing that you prefer to control the balance of the car through the use of the tail, means having a rwd. Buying a quattro and you lose that control for the most part because the awd system takes that control out of your hands, that's why they feel like they understeer more yet in reality they corner just as hard as anything else and they all lose front end grip at roughly the same speed, I doubt the RS3 and M1 will be any different. So what you lose in throttle balancing of the chassis going into the corner you make up for in traction coming out of the corner.

Different strokes for different folk. The argument has moved on from which chassis makes the sportier option to what offers better value. With the M1 you get a nice bodykit, bigger alloys, a LSD and a slight boost in power and that is it, with the RS3 you get a nice bodykit, bigger alloys, a reworked awd and a completely different engine with a huge power hike, plus much more standard kit as well.

No contest in my opinion, the RS3 represents far more value for money.

[rs-6]

et voila: http://www.audi.de/etc/medialib/ngw/product/pdf/price_lists.Par.0041.File.pdf/kw50_rs3_epl_online.pdf

[rs-6]

Gentlemen, start Configurating! http://konfigurator.audi.de/entry

[rs-6]

a bit dissapointed though. No 'schiebedach' available, only 3 mettalic colours, nothing decent like Dark Blue available... Can anyone give more information on the Audi Exclusive possibilities (both interior and exterior). If I would take the Exclusive lackierung, what are the posibilities. The same for the 'lederausstatung audi exclusive' without the 'schalensitze'(I make too much long trips for those), can I then choose the colour of the leather or is it just a variation in a certain fixed colour-combination like f. eg. Black and red.

[tailpipe]

As far as the UK is concerned, the RS3 comes with a very high level of standard specification and a price tag that puts it on a par with a fully-loaded VW Golf R. In my book, that is value for money.

We don't really know how well the RS3 will perform relative to the BMW M1. It is quicker to 100 kph (62 mph) and as RacerBice points out, its front-wheel drive origins are hard to disguise and are likely to make the RS3 understeer on the limit. However, let's not forget that that FWD cars can be much quicker than RWD cars because they allow you to approach corners faster and brake later. If you do find yourself understeering, all you have to do is back-off and the nose will correct itself. Then, as you accelerate when exiting the corner, with any luck you'll still be ahead of a RWD equivalent. Such dynamics are not exactly fun or involving in terms of drifting the car Japanese style, but they get the job done. As I get tired of saying here and elsewhere, the advantage of the S3 and now RS3's AWD set-up is that you can drive really fast all year round. That will be the RS3's edge.

All that said, no, the RS3 isn't a perfect RS car. I would have liked to have seen the same wheels front and rear with proper blistered wheel arches. They've clearly made this car on a budget. But it's got what really matters: that 5-cylinder engine and a 7-speed DSG box. That makes it wunderbar in my book and a better bet than the Golf R, which i also had my eye on.

If this car doesn't turn out to be as special as I'd hoped, I'll swap it for an S4 Avant or maybe even the 3.0 litre version of the new A6.

[Joker]

As far as the UK is concerned, the RS3 comes with a very high level of standard specification and a price tag that puts it on a par with a fully-loaded VW Golf R. In my book, that is value for money.

We don't really know how well the RS3 will perform relative to the BMW M1. It is quicker to 100 kph (62 mph) and as RacerBice points out, its front-wheel drive origins are hard to disguise and are likely to make the RS3 understeer on the limit. However, let's not forget that that FWD cars can be much quicker than RWD cars because they allow you to approach corners faster and brake later. If you do find yourself understeering, all you have to do is back-off and the nose will correct itself. Then, as you accelerate when exiting the corner, with any luck you'll still be ahead of a RWD equivalent. Such dynamics are not exactly fun or involving in terms of drifting the car Japanese style, but they get the job done. As I get tired of saying here and elsewhere, the advantage of the S3 and now RS3's AWD set-up is that you can drive really fast all year round. That will be the RS3's edge.

Though the M1 is probably o the radar of some potential RS3 buyers it's coupe design will limit it's appeal to only a few but I would have thought that these two will shadow each other in the performance arrena with one having strengths in some areas and the other having strengths in others with no clear winner. I reckon the RS3's main rivals are in-house from the Golf R and the S3 but as you rightly said the Golf appears expensive compared to the more potent and more aggressive looking RS3 and the S3 doesn't fare much better.

Understeer, if you are already considering the RS3 then awd is a priority, probably because of the road conditions you face on a regular basis caused by the weather or you happen to prefer it's handling style, after all it's very predictable at the limit with few hidden surprises other than the understeer already mentioned. But it's got bags of advantages in it's traction that allows you back on the power well before the corner opens out, this traction that makes more of it's potential available in adverse weathers and the predictability of it's grip.


All that said, no, the RS3 isn't a perfect RS car. I would have liked to have seen the same wheels front and rear with proper blistered wheel arches. They've clearly made this car on a budget. But it's got what really matters: that 5-cylinder engine and a 7-speed DSG box. That makes it wunderbar in my book and a better bet than the Golf R, which i also had my eye on.

I don't think there is a car out there that someone couldn't pick faults with and the RS3 is no different, but what it is is an honest performer, for the money you get an old but stylist design, a chassis that has few highlights but equally no major failings, offers a cracking engine and transmission, including brakes and will perform impressively against some major players that will cost considerable more.


If this car doesn't turn out to be as special as I'd hoped, I'll swap it for an S4 Avant or maybe even the 3.0 litre version of the new A6.

It is A6 3.0TDI money, yes it's nowhere near as sporty or as quick but the A6 is pure class outside and in and equally well loaded. Tough call.

<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 168px; top: 694px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=Tough)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[doodlebug]

News for those of us in the UK.

A select few dealers will be ordering their cars in the next two weeks. Customer orders will be taken for a limited time from 6th Jan. Production for 2011-2012 will be a limited run of 500 and deliveries will commence in the summer - that includes the demonstrators.

So, if you want one, nows the time to put that deposit down.

[Joker]

I think I recall saying something along the lines of, 'what makes a great performance car special is a special engine' well if sound has anything to do with that opinion then Audi have scored a bull's eye with the RS3 while BMW scored a duck with the M1 Coupe.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HXVx9OlAYo&feature=player_embedded#!

You really need to skip the first 5 minutes or so, but from about then on. :harass::revs: Oh dear. :doh: It might be quick and it might handle brilliantly but it sure sounds like an engine that hasn't reached puberty. :hihi:

May suggest something to any BMW employees that are listening, grow it's engine a pair of balls like the RS3. :mech:

[JavierNuvolari]

Just read the rs3 did the ring in 8:09. So...opinions?

[rs-6]

source? If it's true I wonder how they made it as quick as the tt-rs(because the TT is lighter)

[JavierNuvolari]

source? If it's true I wonder how they made it as quick as the tt-rs(because the TT is lighter)

Audi's Facebook status buddy, just read it yesterday after work.

[ZeroCool]

10693

Just beautiful!! :)

[HKS786]

Just read the rs3 did the ring in 8:09. So...opinions?

Can you verify this? Anyone? Qisha?

That would put it at the same time as the TT-RS, RS4 and M6. It would also be faster than the 1M Coupe and M5.

Other Models Compared:
911 Carrera S PDK (997.5) - 7:50
Audi R8 4.2 - 8:04
Cayman S - 8:04 (by Walter Röhrl)
E90/E92 M3 - 8:05
E63 M6 - 8:09
Audi RS4 - 8:09
Audi TT-RS - 8:09
BMW 1 series M coupe - 8:12
E60 M5 - 8:13
Aston Martin V8 Vantage - 8:13
Mercedes C63 AMG PP - 8:13
Corvette C6 - 8:15
Cayman S - 8:16 (Sport Auto)
Porsche Boxter S (987.5) - 8:18
Lexus IS-F - 8:18
2010 VW Golf R - 8:23
Audi S5 (2007) - 8:26
Audi TT-S (2008) - 8:29

[JavierNuvolari]

Can you verify this? Anyone? Qisha?

That would put it at the same time as the TT-RS, RS4 and M6. It would also be faster than the 1M Coupe and M5.

Other Models Compared:
911 Carrera S PDK (997.5) - 7:50
Audi R8 4.2 - 8:04
Cayman S - 8:04 (by Walter Röhrl)
E90/E92 M3 - 8:05
E63 M6 - 8:09
Audi RS4 - 8:09
Audi TT-RS - 8:09
BMW 1 series M coupe - 8:12
E60 M5 - 8:13
Aston Martin V8 Vantage - 8:13
Mercedes C63 AMG PP - 8:13
Corvette C6 - 8:15
Cayman S - 8:16 (Sport Auto)
Porsche Boxter S (987.5) - 8:18
Lexus IS-F - 8:18
2010 VW Golf R - 8:23
Audi S5 (2007) - 8:26
Audi TT-S (2008) - 8:29

Sorry buddy, like i said I read it on Audi's facebook status this friday I believe. It impresses me the brutal difference between the TT-S and TT-RS.

http://www.facebook.com/audi there it is my friend.

Saludos everyone!

[Joker]

Sorry buddy, like i said I read it on Audi's facebook status this friday I believe. It impresses me the brutal difference between the TT-S and TT-RS.

http://www.facebook.com/audi there it is my friend.

Saludos everyone!

Having looked at Fastestlaps website and the times for past Audis it does look possible this 8:09. The TTS did 8:29 but the older S3 did 8:41, I know that does sound like a big gap but as there's no latest S3 time I looked at the Golf R for reference and it's quicker by 6 seconds. Similar car the S3 so it's fair to expect a similar time from the S3, I am also aware this was a factory time but how much slower would expect other professional drivers to be, the likes of the ones used by Sportauto.

Take the same 20 seconds off that time and you end up with 8:03, 6 or so seconds sounds reasonable. What do you think?

[HKS786]

Hmmm...are you sure it wasnt the TT-RS time you seen? :

"Audi USA - As one of the most difficult roads in the world, the Nürburgring - Nordschleife is where fast cars go to test their merit. The Audi TT RS lapped the 13-mile course in 8 minutes and 9 seconds, making it one of the top 100 fastest cars around the 'Ring - http://audi.us/hnbR02. What matters most in a sportscar: 0-60 mph times, top speed, or overall performance?"

That was posted on Friday.

[JavierNuvolari]

Hmmm...are you sure it wasnt the TT-RS time you seen? :

"Audi USA - As one of the most difficult roads in the world, the Nürburgring - Nordschleife is where fast cars go to test their merit. The Audi TT RS lapped the 13-mile course in 8 minutes and 9 seconds, making it one of the top 100 fastest cars around the 'Ring - http://audi.us/hnbR02. What matters most in a sportscar: 0-60 mph times, top speed, or overall performance?"

That was posted on Friday.

...and you are absolutely right...sorry :S, I'll guess I'll blaim on the Friday and being exhausted.

Sorry guys.

[HKS786]

haha, it's ok

[tailpipe]

So what time do we think that the RS3 will do around the Ring?

If the Golf R does it in 8:23 and the TT-RS does it in 8:09, I think we can safely say that it will at least be between these two times, say 8:14. But then I remember that there is no longer an RS4 coming and that quattro Gmbh engineers will have made use of the accumulated knowledge gained from developing the TT-RS. Then there are the new reinforced suspension arms, uprated brakes and perhaps crucially the new 7-speed dual clutch transmission with launch control. It can handle more than twice the amount of torque than the existing 6-speed DCT on the S3 - meaning that the ratios can be spaced more aggressively. So maybe 8:09 isn't impossible.

For sure Audi will want the RS3's Ring time to be as close to that of the BMW 1-Series M as possible. In fact, I am sure that Dr Piech has issued clear instructions that the Munich marque is to be humbled in this segment. And God help those who fail to realise the good doctor's wishes.

BTW everyone, I believe that the major motoring magazines are all about to test the RS3 if indeed they haven't already done so, but with a story embargo until just after Christmas. Come January, we should be bombarded with RS3 facts. I am sure one reason that Qisha has been so silent lately is because there is more to the RS3 than we yet know.

So, I am optimistic or at least quietly confident about the RS3.

[rs-6]

On another forum a swiss guy claims that he has ordered the RS3 with Magnetic Ride(which was, he says, available on the internal configurator). Is that somehow possible? Or is he lying/wrong?

[tailpipe]

I have ordered mine with magnetic ride too, although I did so without knowing whether it will actually be offered as an option. Still no UK prices and spec yet.

[doodlebug]

UK spec is documented on the Audi UK website along with basic price. No options or prices available though.

[Joker]

You can now configure the RS3 on the Audi UK but it doesn't offer the option to add magnetic ride, either the other bloke is lying or it's not available for order as of yet in the UK, which would surprise me.

http://configurator.audi.co.uk/?.html

[rs-6]

Where can one find the Audi exclusive Colour-palette?

[tailpipe]

Now that I've seen the actual specifications and options on the UK Audi Configurator, it looks as if the RS3 is not available with magnetic ride. I know they have upgraded the suspension to cope with the extra power, so maybe MR was either not needed or there wasn't room for it. This worries me slightly. The ride is likely to be VERY firm. I guess we'll find out soon enough.

Z

[Joker]

I recall somebody mentioning press reviews starting early in new year so you should be finding out how the ride quality is very soon. Hope it's decent as I didn't like the TTRS on stock suspension.

[rs-6]

Anyone who knows when we can expect the first reviews of the RS3? Can't wait to see a 1 M coupe vs RS3 Sportback test...
nobody who can answer the question concerning the Audi Exclusive colours?

[quattroholic]

Audi released a handful of new RS3 photos yesterday that I thought you'd all enjoy (this time in a color other than red).

The photos were taken near the Mont-Tremblant ski resort in Montreal, Canada as promotion for the upcoming Fascination quattro winter driving event. I found the choice of location to display these cars quite peculiar though, considering the RS3 and A1 have yet to be confirmed for North American sale.

I posted the entire photo set on quattroholic.com which includes the RS5, TT RS, A1 quattro, A7, S4 and Sport quattro/Ur-quattro rally cars (all in the snow) - click here for the gallery: http://www.quattroholic.com/2011/01/quattros-in-snow-new-photos-of-audi-rs3.html

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SM9A_sqVGgM/TSkj17--bjI/AAAAAAAAHZU/NiPscBayEtQ/s1600/Audi%2BRS3%2BSnow%2B1.jpg
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SM9A_sqVGgM/TSkj2DrthII/AAAAAAAAHZc/sDILCin6Zdo/s1600/Audi%2BRS3%2BSnow%2B2.jpg
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SM9A_sqVGgM/TSkj2cmdd4I/AAAAAAAAHZk/kb2ituYfliM/s1600/Audi%2BRS3%2BSnow%2B3.jpg
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SM9A_sqVGgM/TSkj2lOuwII/AAAAAAAAHZs/vH3n4l21ZWs/s1600/Audi%2BRS3%2BSnow%2B4.jpg
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SM9A_sqVGgM/TSkj3CWJdRI/AAAAAAAAHZ0/jTda_rck6NA/s1600/Audi%2BRS3%2BSnow%2B5.jpg

Photos courtesy of Audi AG

[Joker]

Thanks for those beautiful pictures in Daytona Grey, probably my favourite Audi colour. Just wished we had a road test to accompany those pics, it's seriously long over due especially since BMW acknowledged the need to keep their customers bang up to date every step of the way with the M1 coupe, including some pre-launch reviews.

Audi you need to do better.

P.S.
Can't wait to see how these two cars stack up, of course BMW fans believe the M1 will win easily but I wouldn't count on it.

[tailpipe]

Happy new Year, everyone!

i love these pictures. Thank you quattroholic. The new RS3 looks terrific. Seeing them just makes me all the more eager to see a proper review and test video of the car. I am hoping it will be any day now.

As I've said before, my one concern about the RS3 is how hard the ride will be. I worry that the lack of an adjustable suspension system (magnetic ride) may mean the car is is bone-jarringly stiff. That said, however, I have faith in the boys from quattro Gmbh. The RS4 didn't have magnetic ride and rode beautifully.

I can't make up my mind whether I prefer Phantom black with the matt aluminium pack or Misano red with the black detailing. So glad I didn't get a Golf R.

Qisha what can you tell us about the RS3's suspension?

[darkop]

Gentlemen...
http://www.autocar.co.uk/CarReviews/FirstDrives/Audi-A3-RS3/254805/

:)

[hdtomi]

Autobild.de

http://www.autobild.de/artikel/audi-rs-3-fahrbericht-1333760.html?bild=18&now=92#mmg

[tailpipe]

Oh dear, the Autobild article says the ride is not suitable for anyone with sensitive vertebrae, I.e. It will be preferred by those with masochistic tendencies. I guess it is the only way to tame that much power in what was originally only a humble front-wheel drive platform.

[Joker]

Oh dear, the Autobild article says the ride is not suitable for anyone with sensitive vertebrae, I.e. It will be preferred by those with masochistic tendencies. I guess it is the only way to tame that much power in what was originally only a humble front-wheel drive platform.

One report (Autocar) says it's firm firm but perfectly acceptable and this one from Autobild says the complete opposite. I think it will take a number of proper roadtests conducted on a selection of roads that are minus the snow to fully determine whether the ride is OK or not.
<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 276px; top: 80px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=OK)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[youry]

TTRS is also rough..... is that a surprise...... these are sports car.... not cars for cruising around right ?

[tailpipe]

TTRS is also rough..... is that a surprise...... these are sports car.... not cars for cruising around right ?

Have you driven a Porsche 911 Turbo S or a Ferrari 458 Italia or even a humble Audi B7 RS4? They all go fast and ride beautifully.

[youry]

I hve owend 996 TT, RS4 V8 and now RS5....

[tailpipe]

I hve owend 996 TT, RS4 V8 and now RS5....

Then you know what I mean. I've tried TT-RS with magnetic ride and found it better than the standard springs and dampers. You know what, Youry, the inescapable conclusion about the RS3 is that it was developed on a budget and relies solely on it's engine to deliver an RS experience. The signs of cost-cutting are evident throughout.

I am going to wait until I see a proper road test, but I'm starting to think that I may be better off with an S4 Avant. It is about £5K more expensive when loaded with necessary options, such as dynamic steering, drive select and other torque vectoring hardware.

What do you think?

[doodlebug]

I agree, I've got to drive this before placing the order.

I was down for an early car, but my desire to test drive first has pushed me down the queue. I'm not prepared to take the punt, if I miss out so be it.

An S4 would be a good alternative, I dare say discounts are to be had on these too. I spec'd one near to 50k, I'd be looking for 10% on that at least.

[youry]

Then you know what I mean. I've tried TT-RS with magnetic ride and found it better than the standard springs and dampers. You know what, Youry, the inescapable conclusion about the RS3 is that it was developed on a budget and relies solely on it's engine to deliver an RS experience. The signs of cost-cutting are evident throughout.

I am going to wait until I see a proper road test, but I'm starting to think that I may be better off with an S4 Avant. It is about £5K more expensive when loaded with necessary options, such as dynamic steering, drive select and other torque vectoring hardware.

What do you think?

Comparing RS3 with S4 is really challenging.... but the right answer is that both cars meets different needs/objectives for different people... so its up to you to see what you are looking for...

[Joker]

Comparing RS3 with S4 is really challenging.... but the right answer is that both cars meets different needs/objectives for different people... so its up to you to see what you are looking for...

Not only what you have said but the different length in wheelbase, the different awd system, engine design/execution and the different demand on performance intention will mean these two cars will be a totally different driving experience.

[youry]

absolutely

[tailpipe]

Originally posted by Youry:

"Comparing RS3 with S4 is really challenging.... but the right answer is that both cars meets different needs/objectives for different people... so its up to you to see what you are looking for..."


Not only what you have said but the different length in wheelbase, the different awd system, engine design/execution and the different demand on performance intention will mean these two cars will be a totally different driving experience.

My objective is to transport wife and kids as fast as possible in an Audi that's fun to drive and suitable for driving in London but also for occasional longer trips. The S4 is slighter larger and less agile, the RS3 is slightly less practical.

I love the RS3's engine. I think it has so much more character than that of the S4. The more I learn about the RS3, the more respect it deserves. Audi has made a very well engineered car.

I just wish we could get the elusive Qisha to provide an inside view of its capabilities.

[Joker]

What is Qisha going to tell you that you don't already know?

You know that magnetic ride isn't part of the options list.
You know that it will roughly be as firm as the TTRS which is it's closest equivalent.

If Qisha told you the ride was perfect would you take his word and order blind or would you still wait until you made judgement yourself?

[rs-6]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3PUu2Vn6h0

eat this BMW!

[ZeroCool]

amazing - just amazing :)

[PANZER]

Looks fun!:)

[Ruergard]

That looks like a lot of fun. :D

[Joker]

Tailpipe,

Here's a report (http://www.audiworld.com/news/11/audi-rs3-st/) which might be worth reading, mentions the ride as firm but still very good. :thumb:
<style> qtl { position: absolute; border: 1px solid #cccccc; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.2; line-height: 100%; z-index: 999; direction: ltr; } qtl:hover,qtl.open { opacity: 1; } qtl,qtlbar { height: 22px; } qtlbar { display: block; width: 100%; background-color: #cccccc; cursor: move; } qtlbar img { border: 0; padding: 3px; height: 16px; width: 16px; cursor: pointer; } qtlbar img:hover { background-color: #aaaaff; } qtl>iframe { border: 0; height: 0; width: 0; } qtl.open { height: auto; } qtl.open>iframe { height: 200px; width: 300px; } </style><qtl style="display: none; left: 64px; top: 52px;" class=""> <qtlbar name="bar">http://www.qtl.co.il/img/copy.pnghttp://www.ask.com/favicon.ico (http://int.ask.com/web?siteid=10000861&webqsrc=999&l=dis&q=report)http://translate.google.com/favicon.ico</qtlbar> <iframe name="content"></iframe> </qtl>

[tailpipe]

What is Qisha going to tell you that you don't already know?

You know that magnetic ride isn't part of the options list.
You know that it will roughly be as firm as the TTRS which is it's closest equivalent.

If Qisha told you the ride was perfect would you take his word and order blind or would you still wait until you made judgement yourself?

It is always interesting to hear an inside view on RS cars and Qisha's insights invariably reveal small details that others miss out. Most of all, i like the way he explains why certain decisions have been made. There was a lot of concern about the different width wheels on the RS3. He confirmed that this solution had worked very successfully before in other Audi models, which was reassuring.

I have ordered an RS3 blind! So maybe i've been a fool. With or without magnetic ride, i think it will be a superb car. i trust Audi / quattro Gmbh to make it so.

BTW, thanks for posting that report.

I saw this video yesterday and thought it was great.

[Joker]

It is always interesting to hear an inside view on RS cars and Qisha's insights invariably reveal small details that others miss out. Most of all, i like the way he explains why certain decisions have been made. There was a lot of concern about the different width wheels on the RS3. He confirmed that this solution had worked very successfully before in other Audi models, which was reassuring.

I have ordered an RS3 blind! So maybe i've been a fool. With or without magnetic ride, i think it will be a superb car. i trust Audi / quattro Gmbh to make it so.

BTW, thanks for posting that report.

I saw this video yesterday and thought it was great.

Not a fool, you made the calculated decision of wanting the car early and hoping the ride is to your liking instead of waiting to see for sure and be late to the party, my point was that Qisha's comments can't really confirm the ride will suit you, only you can determine that question as Qisha's preference might be to a firmer setup than you. He might reassure you a bit but only that.

One thing that will help is more reports coming back from multiple sources saying the same thing, if most say it's well judged then great.

Audiworld and Autocar say it's ride is good so that's a great start. :jlol:

[tailpipe]

Where have you got to on ordering an RS3? Are you going to go for it now, or wait?

A lot of people have given me a hard time for buying a car that will be out of date within a year of buying it. But since it is unlikely that a new RS3 model will appear in the next generation A3 any time soon, i figure time is still on my side. I think the RS3 has the very best engine Audi makes at this time as well as the very best gearbox. I can handle a firm suspension, indeed, I like a firm suspension. What i don't like is no give whatsoever.

[Joker]

A lot of people have given me a hard time for buying a car that will be out of date within a year of buying it. But since it is unlikely that a new RS3 model will appear in the next generation A3 any time soon, i figure time is still on my side.

If they aren't willing to take the gamble and possibly get one of Audi's best RS cars simply because the model is due a change soon then it's their loss, don't worry what others think.


I think the RS3 has the very best engine Audi makes at this time as well as the very best gearbox. I can handle a firm suspension, indeed, I like a firm suspension. What i don't like is no give whatsoever.

Firm is grand as long as it isn't jarringly so, in my mind Porsche are best at getting this balance right but I have faith in Audi, recently some of their most sporty of models have got surprisingly good, the S4, the R8, the TT, all firm but still comfortable, hopefully the RS3 continues this trend.

[tailpipe]

I wonder if Porsche has lent a few components to Quattro Gmbh for the RS3? Such as as springs and dampers. You wouldn't give a damn about magnetic ride if that was the case. I think the last time Porsche got involved with an RS model it was the old and original RS2? Lovely car.

[rs-6]

I doubt it, if that would be the case Audi would use it in it's marketing.

[Joker]

I doubt it, if that would be the case Audi would use it in it's marketing.

Agreed, the Porsche brand is a powerful marketing tool that Audi would undoubtedly use where ever possible.

[harald-hans]

Hi at @ll,

I just want to mention that I have ordered my RS3 last week - color is "Misanored" Pearl.

Delivery date - 2nd quarter 2011 ... :cry:

Greetings from Germany

harald-hans - R:s3addict:

[tailpipe]

Congratulations on a great choice.

Delivery starts in the second quarter, i.e. from April, it's the same for all of us.

[doodlebug]

First UK cars not expected until July (at best), demonstrators and first customer cars to arrive at the same time. I'll be test driving before placing an order.

The original 500 car quota is likely to be exceeded given current interest in the vehicle.

[tailpipe]

My dealer says they're getting the first UK allocation. He says April. Not July. I hope he is right. If it slips to July I'll be gutted.

I've just heard that the VW Group will display 7 concept cars at Geneva, including 2 from Audi. One is certain to be the Q3, the other could be another e-Tron / R4 / TT replacement, or preview the next A3. What is for sure is that the next A3 family is on a critical path to launch. Who will want a dull old A3 sportback when the new A3 is here? Not many. I imagine orders for the RS3 will dry up as soon as the new A3 is previewed.

So I think and hope Audi will expedite delivery fairly rapidly.

[doodlebug]

I'm afraid your dealer is telling porkies, they can't confirm delivery dates until March. The launch is set for summer. Here's the info from Audi UK (thanks Gareth). The R8 team supporting this car have indicated July as a likely time for first deliveries.

RS 3 Sportback - UK quota is 500 units

There will be limited production of just 500 RS 3 Sportbacks for the UK from the start of production in 2011 to end of production in 2012. As a result, demand for this fantastic new addition to the Audi range is likely to exceed supply. Here is more information on launch car availability and details of the open for ordering process.

Centre showroom/demonstrator orders

RS 3 will open for Centre Market Introduction ordering on Wednesday 21 December and close on Tuesday 4 January.

A quota of one showroom/demo vehicle per Centre will be available. There will be a maximum of one demonstrator per market area and the remainder must be showroom vehicles.

Orders must be SLI order type 05 Demo or 06 Showroom.

The specification of these vehicles is free, but if an order has not been placed by the deadline (4 January) then a vehicle will be ordered on your behalf in agreement with your Area Sales Manager.

Centres will not be permitted to sell their Market Introduction vehicles to customers until they are three months old.

The launch is planned for Summer 2011, further details are to be confirmed.

Price and specification guide

An electronic price and specification guide will be available to download from Desktop and from audi.co.uk on Wednesday 22 December to enable you to specify and order your RS 3 market introduction car.

Open for customer orders

Limited quota will be available in SLI for customer orders from Thursday 6 January 2011. Cars will be allocated by the RS team as per the usual process. Customers who placed the earliest deposit or interest in the car via roi@audi.co.uk (roi@audi.co.uk) will take delivery of the first vehicles.

It will not be possible to provide customers with confirmation of build weeks until March 2011 at the earliest. It is crucial that Centres inform customers of this in order to manage their expectations when placing an order. Deliveries of customer RS 3s will begin in Summer 2011. More specific timescales cannot be given at this time.

Timings
Open for Centre showroom/demo orders 22 December 2010 to 4 January 2011
Limited quota for Centre customer orders Thursday 6 January 2011
Confirmation of build weeks from March 2011
RS 3 premiere at Geneva motor show Calendar week 09 2011
Centre launch and first Customer deliveries Summer 2011

[tailpipe]

Doodlebug,

When exactly does summer begin? Is it May, June or July?

I've always thought of the seasons as follows:
- Spring: March, April and May
- Summer: June, July and August
- Autumn: September, October and November
- Winter: December, January and February

If I'm right that equates to a June arrival for the RS3 rather than July. That's still not April as I was told, which is mildly annoying. When I ordered my RS3 car, i was led to believe Q1 presentation (March at Geneva) followed Q2 delivery. I don't mind waiting until May, but if it's July I'll throw a gasket.

Do you think the above press release contains a fair amount of bullsh1t designed to manage customer expectations? Wasn't the VW Golf R the same? They said it would be limited to 500 units per annum, but in fact quite a few more have been sold. I suspect that with the RS3, Audi will want to sell as many as they can before production ends to justify the investment.

I tend to stand by what I said above: Audi cannot afford to delay the RS3. They made this mistake with the B7 RS4 and it cost them sales. Within a very short period of time after the RS4's launch, the new B8 A4 made it obsolete. The design of the new B8 platform was a big advance over the B7, so a lot of people who might have bought B7 RS4s waited for the S4. It was a smart decision, because the B8 S4 was as capable as the old B7 RS4 and in many ways better, but it cost less.

Even before the RS3 arrives, it is late having been in gestation longer than an elephant and the somewhat lacklustre 8P A3 platform is hardly the greatest foundation. Can Audi delay it further when a new A3 is on the horizon? The new A3 cannot be late either, because not only is the current A3 platform already very old (2003) Mercedes-Benz is readying its own assault on the category with radically new A- and B-Class models.

While I could think about waiting for the next S3, which is rumoured to get a 300 bhp version of the EA888 in-line 4-cylinder engine. If i have to wait until July, I may simply get a Golf R instead. I need a new car now!

[doodlebug]

The details above are from an Audi UK communication to the dealerships, so not a press release as such. Customers wouldn't normally see this, though clearly some of the details should be passed on!

I've been advised that cars aren't likely to appear until July, clearly more should be known in March when build details are released.

As I understand it, interest is such that more than 500 units are likely to be sold without any trouble. It would appear that timing isn't an issue to the market, I suspect the initial positive (but brief) reviews have aided the level of interest.

I looked at Golf R, but would need a considerable discount to make it appealing. Paying £40k for a Golf is a step too far!

[Joker]

Tailpipe, I am a little surprised to hear that you would still consider a Golf R if the RS3 is a couple of months late. Great is might be but when you start to add the extra kit that's standard on the RS3 you end up only a few grand less, it's still minus that magical engine, minus the image and status that comes with a RS and it's chassis hasn't received the same sprinkle of magic either. Then there's to limited production numbers that are assured with the RS.

No brainer mate, stick with your original decision.

[darkop]

Just got confirmation over twitter.. From one of the employees in US dealership!

''Audi revealed the Q3 in orange to us at the dealer meeting as well as the Q5 hybrid! Also the A3 sports sedan concept.''
So I guess, new A3 is not far away...

[tailpipe]

Thanks for that Darkop. Geneva is going to be interesting.

Joker, I am generally the sort of person who buys a car and keeps it until it falls apart - unless of course there is good reason to get rid of it. (My old BMW E46 M3's engine expired on two occasions and all the interior trim came unstuck, because BMW used a new glue that didn't work); so it went after only 3 years.) My old Audi A2's engine has just died after 10 years of service and putting a new one in it would cost more than the car is worth. We have an old Merc and its also on its last legs. I am hoping it'll last until the RS3 arrives. We go to italy in the Summer (wife is Italian), so I am hoping to have my RS3 in time for the drive from London to Rome. Seriously, I need a new car by June at the latest.

[doodlebug]

Tailpipe, did you get any further info from your dealer?

Rumour has it the initial quota has been taken up, no more factory orders.

[tailpipe]

My dealer says full details about availability and delivery timings will be published next week, i.e. at Geneva. He says anything anyone's heard up until now is either speculation with deliberately conservative estimates designed to manage expectations. He thinks that May-June is realistic, but it could be sooner.

He said that since new A3 will begin to appear this year, the RS3 will not remain on sale for very long. I've heard a rumour that production will cease in September. I don'y know if it is true. The current A3 product plan looks like this:

Q3 5-door hatchback - September 2011
A3 3-door coupe/ hatchback - September 2011 / Spring 2012
A3 5-door Sport back - September 2012/ Spring 2013
A3 2-door Convertible - Spring 2013
A3 4-door Sedan - Spring 2013 / September 2013

[AndyBG]

Few new pic's of RS 3 taken in Monaco...

http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/03/photo-gallery-audi-rs3-sportback-takes.html

[tailpipe]

Thanks for posting that.

Mine ordered in November 2010. Phantom black with aluminium bits. Arrives early June. Can't wait.

[AndyBG]

Honestly, as time goes by I like this RS 3 more, and more... It looks absolutely great!

[doodlebug]

Thanks for posting that.

Mine ordered in November 2010. Phantom black with aluminium bits. Arrives early June. Can't wait.

Is the build date confirmed? My dealer hasn't had confirmation on their demonstrator and they were ordered before any customer cars.

I'm thinking Suzuka Grey. Already have a Daytona RS6, two dark grey cars will be too much!

[tailpipe]

Build date not confirmed, but dealer suggests that it will be Week 22 (mid-May).

The A3 series tends to look best in dark colours rather than mid or light tones, hence my choice of phantom Black.

[The Pretender]

http://www.abhd.nl/video/audi-rs3-sportback

[Erik]

Wow, what a video. The gear changes sound almost like the RS6 V10... Very, very tempted now...

[Ricoloco]

Erik, DO IT!!!!!!

If I didnt have a dog, if I didnt hunt, if I didnt planned to get children the coming year.....I would def get one. Great value too!

[Ruergard]

Love the sound of that thing... :love:

[JavierNuvolari]

The sound is just mindblowing.

[tailpipe]

Erik, DO IT!!!!!!

If I didnt have a dog, if I didnt hunt, if I didnt planned to get children the coming year.....I would def get one. Great value too!

Ricoloco,

I have a dog. I hunt. I have three kids.... And I've ordered an RS3. What is your problem? :-)

[Joker]

If the old car can be this good to drive then just imagine what the new A3/S3/RS3 will be like. :dig:

[Erik]

Ricoloco,

I have a dog. I hunt. I have three kids.... And I've ordered an RS3. What is your problem? :-)

Same here, minus one kid.

My problem is financing the car... :incar:

[Ricoloco]

Ricoloco,

I have a dog. I hunt. I have three kids.... And I've ordered an RS3. What is your problem? :-)

I got VERY big guns....small dog though...RS6 C6 is the best solution for me so far.

[Erik]

I got VERY big guns....

What do you hunt? :rolleyes:

Sounds like we should have a get together at the shooting range. Peace through superior firepower :hahahehe:

[Ruergard]

What do you hunt? :rolleyes:

Elephants? :vhmmm:

From Sweden that is then. Tomahawk missiles?

[harald-hans]

I got VERY big guns....small dog though...RS6 C6 is the best solution for me so far.

Hi Ricoloco,

just one question to you - your avatar - is this pic taken maybe in Germany ?

Looks like the garage of the Dorint Hotel at the Nürburgring ...

Greetings from Germany

harald-hans (waiting for his RS3)

[Ricoloco]

Hi Ricoloco,

just one question to you - your avatar - is this pic taken maybe in Germany ?

Looks like the garage of the Dorint Hotel at the Nürburgring ...

Greetings from Germany

harald-hans (waiting for his RS3)

Hi HH,

nope, the pic is taken in my garage in Sweden.

Doesnt every one hunt moose with AA-guns?!

[darkop]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISqOm2Ecwn4&feature=player_embedded

[Ruergard]

The more I look at it the better it looks. Good job Audi!

[tailpipe]

There is a fantastic review of the RS3 in this week's Autocar magazine. Okay, i know it's British and you guys have a low opinion of the UK motoring press, but it says some very positive things including on the cover: 'DRIVEN: AUDI'S MEGA-HATCH It'll keep up with an M3 - everywhere.'

Inside, they say that the RS3 is very docile up to 1,500 rpm, making it ideal for gentle trips to the shops or commuting, but above this level it is 'monstrously fast, carrying what initially feels like impossible speeds through quicker and medium-speed corners'. However, they criticise it for being too predictable and too un-involving. They want the ability to cover huge distances with incredible speed to entertain the driver, but such performance in the RS3 is so effortless and the grip so tenacious, it takes the fun out of it. They also say it is a practical hatchback first and a sportscar second. I view these comments as benefits not disadvantages. Predictable but prodigiously fast handling is exactly why I buy Audi quattros. The last thing you want is an unpredictable car, like a RWD BMW m3, on a winter road; (it isn't just terrifying it's downright lethal).

[doodlebug]

+1 :hahahehe:

[likenootherswe]

Hi guys! New to this forum.
Comming from www.tt-forum.co.uk (http://www.rt-forum.co.uk) " drivd a TTS"
Ordered 15/3-11 an Rs3 Ibis, alu pack ,nav, bose,
Delivery Date not confirmed here in Sweden , hoping to get it before August.
If someone know more about the buldweeks plz tell or pm.

Cheers guys

[Ruergard]

Welcome aboard and congratulations to the order! :thumb:

[The Pretender]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HayoASR-54&feature=autofb


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQmnc1PM2oA&feature=autofb


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzvu_Vo1giA&feature=autofb


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_MrjoXVQFw&feature=autofb


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsJ7rHaNLco&feature=autofb

[inF]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HayoASR-54&feature=autofb

This, oh this.

[Erik]

There are video tags available ;)

Fast Forward to 1:00


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HayoASR-54&feature=autofb

[JavierNuvolari]

I honestly wonder why would ANYONE buy any other RS car over this gem...it really is unique.

[PANZER]

Man that sound is so nice.
The 2.5 TFSI five what a masterpiece..

[tailpipe]

Most of the UK reviews are, frankly, very irritating. :vgrumpy:

One magazine, Evo, describes the RS3 as a car capable of delivering a crushing level of performance for people who have no desire to be part of the process. Bollocks! :doh:

There is a dutch review on You Tube where the guy says: the suspension isn't form enough so at least your girlfriend won't throw up when you take her shopping in it. Others say it is much firmer than the S3 but without ever being uncomfortable. Putting these comments together, ride comfort sounds as if it is perfectly judged. :thumb:

The other main complaint is what all journalists criticise Audis for when they can't think of anything negative to say: lack of steering feedback. Many say that the car is fast without ever being involving. :vhmmm:

These videos, however, tell a different story. All the journalists say very little when actually driving the RS3 - you can see they're totally focussed on the road - but they all have massive grins on their faces. That seems to reflect enormous driver involvement and enjoyment to me. :applause:

Video showing the car in forward motion reveal an astonishing pace.Whatever they ask the car to do, it just does it. Gargantuan levels of grip make it very hard to push this car to the limit of an average driver's ability. :stick:

For me, the RS3 shows that Audi totally understands what i want: A car that's capable of getting from A to B at astonishing speeds while being practical, comfortable and discreet. Since travelling at an incredible pace in the RS3 demands so little effort, it is easier for a less capable drive to go fast in it than it is in a traditional RWD car with more power. Or to put it another way, you can go ballistically fast in an RS3 without arriving at your destination feeling exhausted because of the sheer physical effort to keep the thing planted and because you've been jolted around as if you'd ridden a skateboard down the Spanish Steps. :0::dig:

I travel a lot from London to Europe. At certain times, motorways just don't make sense. Far better to use B-roads at breakneck speeds. That makes the RS3 perfect for me. In fact, I think I prefer it with its five cylinder engine to the RS5 with its V8. :alig:

:cheers::cheers:

[The RS6]

discreet.

That, my friend, it is NOT :D

[AndyBG]

Two driving videos from RS 3 launch im MC...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQmnc1PM2oA&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzvu_Vo1giA&feature=player_embedded

[tailpipe]

The overtaking manoeuvre in the first video (towards the end) seems crazy. Maybe the driver could see that nothing was coming; even so, we could have got a very good demonstration of the RS3's crash test credentials!!!! Anyway, the pace is astonishing.

[The Pretender]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4Jw2Q9HmAs

[The Pretender]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDshvYFrp6w

[The Pretender]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53js-Nx61Ew

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

good- and bad news:

good: the volume has been increased from 2.750 to 3.300 Units due to high demand

bad: 80% sold out already (100% within 1 month if demand remains the same), delivery time at least 6 month (exclusive colors up to 9 month)

Qisha

[JavierNuvolari]

Hopefully some of those will make it over here.

[darkop]

Hopefully some of those will make it over here.
Exactly none.

[jl32]

...

good: the volume has been increased from 2.750 to 3.300 Units due to high demand

bad: 80% sold out already (100% within 1 month if demand remains the same), delivery time at least 6 month (exclusive colors up to 9 month)

Qisha
Hi there,

first message here to say that I've ordered a gray daytona one in march. I was told first that the delivery should be third quarter. Two weeks later my dealer in Germany said to me that it won't be before the last quarter. I'm afraid it will become soon : delivery early 2012.
In order to clarify what's going on, I've reached the international customer service in Ingolstadt. No very cool guys there and so the last information I've got is still : you'll get your car, probably may be, between the 1st october and the 31th of december this year.
So if I've made the calculation right, it's more than six months from the order to the delivery.

[The RS6]

Well, like Qisha said...AT LEAST 6 months delivery...9 months for Exclusive colors and correct me if I'm wrong but daytona gray is one of those...

[jl32]

Actually, daytona grey, pearl effect (6Y) is an optional colour but not at all an Audi exclusive paint.

What I meant is that Audi is not able to tell customers, at least, which month the car will be built. And we are talking about the "old" A3, not about the very new models like the Q3 or the new A3.

[tailpipe]

My car is a June build and I get it in early July. Glad I trusted Qisha's promise / predictions early last year, that this would be a truly stunning car. I ordered it as soon as it was announced and before offical order books were opened. My dealer in London has eight on order! Mine is No. 1. Stock colours arrive first, special paint jobs will be 2012. Demand for RS3 has been fairly amazing. I would say that even Qisha's figures may be exceeded.

[Joker]

Demand for both this and the new 1M Coupe have excessed expectations it would seem with both brands quickly upping their original quota to meet the demand.

I wonder will this new figure of 3300 units be increased if demand continues? :vhmmm:

[jl32]

hey great news for you tailpipe !
Actually I've tried to order one in UK in february but all the allocation had been already sold at that time.
Since I've ordered in march I guess that I have to be patient. It's worth waiting for a daytona gray RS3 though.
I'll have the bucket seats, MMI+, AMI, matt aluminium package, privacy glass, adaptive headlights (I'm gonna drive on tiny roads in the moutains with plenty of curves), Bose, aluminium race design.

:)

[Erik]

These "small" cars are really growing on me, even the 1M.

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=511414 nice story, esp since an owner gets it before the papers.

[Erik]

Some of you might want to pick up the latest issue of EVO.

http://www.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_865/car_photo_432976_12.jpghttp://www.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_865/car_photo_432952_12.jpg

http://www.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_865/car_photo_432949_12.jpghttp://www.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_865/car_photo_432955_12.jpg

http://www.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_865/car_photo_432940_25.jpg

I guess the 1M couldn't make it ;)

[The RS6]

Is it just me or are those black wheels with red accents...horrible? I'm 25 and even I don't like them...so who does?!

[JavierNuvolari]

Exactly none.

What?!, are you being serious? and Audi insider told you none of those is coming over here(Chile)?

[Erik]

Is it just me or are those black wheels with red accents...horrible? I'm 25 and even I don't like them...so who does?!

I don't like them either, too much. Older people will buy this car ;)

[S5AC]

Good morning guys!

New here but wanted to share what I was told yesterday concerning delivery of my RS3.

I ordered on december 30th 2010:

RS3
phantomblack
bucket seats
black exterior package
privacy glass
colored mirrors
Navi Plus MMI
Bose
AMI
etc.

I was told that the car got a build week yesterday and it will be build and delivered in july 2011.

First I was a little shocked because I still hoped for april/may but at the moment you even wait 6-7 month for a standard A3 and right now I don't see an alternative for the RS3 so I will just wait...

Greetings from Germany! :incar:

[rs-6]

@ Qisha: is there a chance that the volume will be increased again?
Also, and more important: will there be a RS3 plus?

Greetings,

RS-6

[likenootherswe]

Ordered ibis rs3 in march , no build date yet for me , asked My dealer today that the Uk Market have july builddate but no info here in Sweden yet ! Is there different bulildweeks for different countries ?!

[Joker]

Just read the latest edition of EVO where it compares three hothatches (RS3 being one of them) against the mighty Enzo. My goodness is this magazine anti-Audi, hardly a good word to say about the whole driving experience of the RS3, but considering that they also hated the RS5 and TTRS, two of my favourite RS models just goes to show that anything they say I will take with a pinch of salt and will probably mean I'll love the RS3 too. :lovl:

P.S.
That said, there is an underlinning issue with the firmness of it's ride that all UK mags are commenting on which is concerning, might mean it's best suited to short blasts rather than long distance cruising.

[Joker]

Not a full test as such much more a first impressions of the cars to see how they feel. Anyhow they did do some acceleration runs and here's the results of those runs.

RS3 0-100km/h in 4.6s and 0-200km/h in 17.5s
1M 0-100km/h in 4.9s and 0-200km/h in 17.3s

They don't appear to have a completed time at the 200km/h mark for the RS500 but it did do the 0-100km/h point in 5.6s which isn't that great, probably traction issues.

Overall a good showing for the RS3 which is a bit heavier and only ever so slightly slower (on this test) to the 200km/h point than the 1M Coupe. Very evenly matched cars indeed or did they even test them at all because those times for the RS3 are identical to Audi's official figures. :vhmmm:

[Erik]

If you look at distance, not speed, I'm sure the RS3 is over the line before ;)

[Qisha]

Dear Friends,

i feel sorry for all of you that ordered a RS 3 Sportback and are frustrated by not having a delivery date yet. The problem in short terms is a supplier based color issue regarding pigmentation (Supply is coming from Japan).

Therefore the following colors are limited:

Daytonagrey

Havannablack

Lavagrey

Pantherblack

Teakbrown

Misanored

Shirazred

Deepseablue

Aviatorblue

Scubablue

Glacierwhite

All other colors are within schedule, Ibiswhite or Phantomblack for example in the case of the RS 3 Sportback.

The end of the limitation is not expected to be any better before Q4/11.

Please note that the limitation is not only RS 3 Sportback based but affects the entire Audi Range.

Audi is working on a solution to assure faster supply on needed quotes.

Qisha

[Joker]

I read this on another forum the other day, though there they were discussing only Havana Black so I assumed it was the sole colour effected.

[tailpipe]

Dear Friends,

i feel sorry for all of you that ordered a RS 3 Sportback and are frustrated by not having a delivery date yet. The problem in short terms is a supplier based color issue regarding pigmentation (Supply is coming from Japan).

Therefore the following colors are limited:

Daytonagrey

Havannablack

Lavagrey

Pantherblack

Teakbrown

Misanored

Shirazred

Deepseablue

Aviatorblue

Scubablue

Glacierwhite

All other colors are within schedule, Ibiswhite or Phantomblack for example in the case of the RS 3 Sportback.

The end of the limitation is not expected to be any better before Q4/11.

Please note that the limitation is not only RS 3 Sportback based but affects the entire Audi Range.

Audi is working on a solution to assure faster supply on needed quotes.

Qisha

As Henry Ford once said: you can have it in any colour you like, so long as it's black! The truth is this is a big problem. i am sure Audi will find a solution quickly - having to wait until 2012 for a car is bound to make buyers look elsewhere.

Glad I ordered my RS3 in black.

[Rabbit222]

Hi all! New to the forum and was pointed to it by a fellow VW Club of South Africa member. Thank you for the insightful info Qisha. The little bit of excitement I have had for this car is slowly but surely starting to fizzle out...more so after hearing about the paint problems :-( I have a Daytona RS3 on order. I don't want to change my option to Ibis since I already own an Ibis B8 S4.

[Tuffy]

Hi....

I have also ordered a unit in SA and we still dont have proper pricing as yet.....Only 50 units is confirmed in SA. All dealers have sold these units before any info has been released about the SA spec. I have a B8 S4 in ibis white and Im looking forward to my Shirazred RS3.

[windshear]

Well since my fellow South Africans have joined here i am compelled to join as well after lurking for many many years. Tuffy you say Shiraz red ? Are you going to be ordering an exclusive colour ? Im getting the Misano red with aluminium package. My dealer says i have been allocated build week 24 as thats what they have been given as a dealership, but the irony is of course we havent even been able to place the order so far.

[Rabbit222]

Hey Rudi! Let's hope we get some info this week!

[Tuffy]

Well every dealer has a different story......I have contacted a few dealers and they actually have no idea....fortunately my dealer does not want to "lie to me" so has been very limited on the information front...I have however heard that there are some dealers that have build weeks already. I would like an exclusive colour but after reading all these posts I will only get my car in 2014 :). It will be nice to see the scramble when the official price list is lauched and the order book is officially open :) Who is your dealer?

My Package:
shiraz red
sports bucket seats
aluminium package
Navigation
Bose

[windshear]

Im phoning my dealer first thing in the morning. The sales manager was in Ingolstadt this last week so she may hopefully have more recent up to date news.

[windshear]

Wow that colour is going to add about 20k to the price and the seats probably another 30k based on my estimates. Actually all the dealers were given their allocated slots a few weeks ago already by the relevant manager. I gather you havent seen the dealer bulletin then that gives some basic info without any real detail in terms of build dates.

[Tuffy]

Hi Windshear,

Please post the details. Im a bit anxious about the delivery dates....Wouldnt want to get this car as a Christmas gift :)

[Tuffy]

Looking at the base price and the extra's .....it should cost about 650k ZAR.

i did recieve that FAX that was distributed. The dealer did get his allocation but thats it. Nothing further.

[windshear]

Sorry i only have a printed hard copy. I expect the base price to be about 530k ZAR before options, and then the guys in the uk complain about their car prices ha ha !

[Tuffy]

Yip...its defenately a packet but for the trill..it is defenately worth it.

The FAX that I recieved did not have any estimated pricing...the document was the internal Dealer Bulletin March 2011.