The first details of the new Audi RS 3 are hitting the press; much is still to be finalised, but we know it will use a turbocharged five-cylinder engine and is due to appear early next year. The RS 3 has undergone a two-year development programme including over 1,000 laps of the Nürburgring.
Exterior
We can't tell too much about how the RS 3 will look as any images of it show a heavily camouflaged car; the five-door version will be the first and possibly only body style, although there is a chance that Audi will do a four-door saloon variant too. One thing that can't be disguised are the 19-inch wheels and 235/35 tyres.
Mechanicals
We don't know how much power the engine will develop but it is likely to be between 355- and 370hp. Despite the current trend for downsizing Audi has stuck with the five-cylinder configuration for its distinctive sound; designed to set the RS 3 apart from four-cylinder rivals. An optional sports exhaust will be offered to enhance the soundtrack. A seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox is likely to be the only transmission option and it feeds a Haldex all-wheel drive system with a beefed up rear differential.
Audi has worked to improve weight distribution even relocating the battery to the boot. Overall the set-up is said to be more adjustable. New parts include the steering hub assembly and low-friction passive dampers; adjustable magnetic dampers will be on the options list. The power steering set-up is taken from the Audi TT S while the brakes come from the RS 4.
Anything else?
Initial reports suggest that the performance, handling and ride comfort are all improved over the old RS 3. We'll reserve final judgement until we drive it for ourselves, but it sounds very promising. The RS 3 will appear early next year, probably at the Geneva Motor Show, and it is possible that the first cars will go on sale next summer.