What's this then?
Audi has revealed a few details about the next generation RS 3; the finished article is still a few months away, but the company's head of development, Stephan Reil, has been talking to the press. The RS 3 has undergone a two-year development programme including over 1,000 laps of the Nürburgring.
What do we know?
For a start, it will have an updated five-cylinder turbo engine with more power than the outgoing RS 3's 335hp. Estimates of the actual output vary from 355- to 370hp, but the distinctive sound of the engine is designed to set the RS 3 apart from four-cylinder rivals. An optional sports exhaust will be offered to enhance the soundtrack. Drive will go through a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox to a Haldex all-wheel drive system; a manual transmission will not be offered.
What about the chassis?
Audi has worked hard to improve the balance; the MQB architecture is lighter with better weight distribution even in standard form. To further improve matters the RS 3 gets the battery relocated to the boot. Overall the set-up is said to be more adjustable. "It doesn't drive like a rear-drive car," said Reil, "but if you're sliding, it won't just pull straight."
New parts include the steering hub assembly and low-friction dampers by Sachs, designed to improve ride comfort; 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.
When does it get here?
We're expecting the RS 3 to appear early next year, probably at the Geneva Motor Show. Talk is that UK deliveries will follow around mid-2015. Initially it will only be offered as a five-door with a price slightly over £40,000; a four-door version may come later.
John Lambert - 21 Oct 2014