FORECOURT
AUDI RS 3 The RS 3 brings mechanical advancements over its predecessor but is it more fun to drive? Jack Evans took to the wheel to find out.
Under the bonnet
THE KNOWLEDGE Audi RS 3 Launch Edition Price (as tested): £60,460 Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol Power: 394bhp Torque: 500Nm Max speed: 174mph O-60mph: 3.6 seconds MPG (combined): 31.4 Emissions: 205g/km CO2
The 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine pumps out 394bhp and can fling the RS 3 from 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds.
WHAT IS IT? The third-generation RS 3 hit the scene with what appeared to be relatively minimal changes. But as we discovered on our first drive in Athens in October, it was clear to see that Audi had changed the RS 3 in such a way as to dramatically improve the formula. But we’re in the UK with the RS 3, so can it deliver a winning experience over the pock-marked roads we live with? WHAT’S NEW? You’ll find a tweaked chassis as well as a new torque splitter at the back, which allows power to be shifted between the rear wheels, giving better mid-corner adjustability and added agility overall. In the UK, all RS 3 models sit on adjustable dampers, while uprated brakes should help to bring it to a more effective halt – although you can specify carbonceramic versions should you want even more stopping performance. WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Although the 394bhp output might mirror that of its predecessor, the new car now kicks out 500Nm of torque as opposed to 480Nm previously. That power is also delivered lower down in the rev range for more purposeful acceleration. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? The ride is just pliable enough – although it struggles with larger road imperfections – while the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and easily when left to its own devices. There’s an almost bewildering number of settings and modes, but get it dialled in and the RS 3 is seriously impressive. It’s ludicrously fast, too, but deploys its power with very little fuss or drama. Cornering grip is sublime as well, and it doesn’t feel like you have to fight the car to get the best from it. The exhaust – even in its most raucous setting – is curiously muted, mind you, and that does dull some of the overall experience. We wouldn’t be surprised if tighter emissions regulations played a part in this. HOW DOES IT LOOK? Although the RS 3 is available as a saloon again, ‘our’ test car came in the ever-popular hatchback form. It feels like a tried-and-tested shape, in fairness, blending practicality and compact size to create a car in which to take the kids to school or tear down a country road.
30 | CarDealerMag.co.uk
