A high-quality hot hatchback should provide ample power for gripping tires on winding roads, a spacious trunk for holding track day essentials or groceries, and a comfortable suspension suitable for extended road trips. With its latest RS3 hatchback, Audi aims to refine this concept, potentially surpassing expectations.
Introduced last Friday, the new RS3 Sportback features a powerful 400-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, likely the same one found in the already released RS3 sedan and the TT RS. With updated lightweight components, this engine not only boasts greater power than its predecessor but is also more lightweight. Like the sedan version, the Sportback accelerates from a complete stop to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, demonstrating impressive speed.
The new Audi RS3 includes quattro, naturally
This engine pairs with a seven-speed dual-clutch S-tronic transmission and utilizes Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system to distribute power effectively to each wheel. According to Audi, the AWD system increasingly favors the rear wheels the sportier the driving style becomes. Additionally, the new hatch is equipped with opening and closing exhaust baffles, an optional adaptive sport suspension, and a sport drive mode tailored for RS models.
Overall, this version is an enhanced and more powerful $58,000 (approximately converted from 54,600 euros) Audi hatchback. For those in the market for a robust hot hatch, other choices include the 381-horsepower Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG or a tuned VW Golf R.
The decision is yours.
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