New Audi RS3 Saloon Spied

[Nairrk]

Spotted winter and cold weather testing ahead of its late 2020 launch, the images show that the RS 3 saloon should gain the same high performance tweaks as its hatchback counterpart to help set it apart from lesser models in the all-new A3 range

At the front, that means there’s a deep bumper with extra ventilation around the existing singleframe grille; necessary to improve cooling for the engine and brakes in a hot hatch. We can tell this is a full-fat RS 3 most obviously at the back, where the rear diffuser is bookending by two huge oval tailpipes - a signature of Audi’s RS division.

Like the hatch, the overall proportions of the next RS 3 saloon won’t change much from its predecessor. That’s because the car rides on an updated version of the previous model’s MQB platform.

That gives Audi access to the same engine as before: a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine. Expect the new model to blow past the 400bhp mark this time, in order to help it keep pace with the latest Mercedes-AMG CLA 45. With drive sent to all four wheels, that should give the RS 3 saloon a sub-four second 0-62mph time.

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[Nairrk]

2020 Audi RS 3: prices, specs and release date

The Audi RS 3 has been spied again, this time while undergoing high-speed testing around the Nurburgring Nordschleife. The new model will continue the hyper-hatch arms race against the Mercedes-AMG A45 when it goes on sale later this year.

When it reaches the UK market, the new RS 3 will be the fastest version of the German brand’s range-topping hot hatchback to date, producing upwards of 400bhp. Here’s all the key information that we know so far.

The test car spied in the latest images wear less camouflage than previous mules, though several of the key areas of design are still hidden. However, what’s clear to see is that, true to previous RS-branded Audis, the new RS 3 will feature a purposeful bodykit to set it apart from the lesser versions of the A3.

The upgrades at the front include a deeper front bumper with enlarged air dams to provide more cool air for the engine. Hot air will be expelled with help of additional vents on the trailing edge of the front wheel arches. The side sills are deeper than regular A3 models, while around the back there’s a larger rear spoiler, an extended rear diffuser and the RS-trademark oversized pair of oval tailpipes.

The makeover will continue inside, with a pair of heavily bolstered sports seats, a sports steering wheel, aluminium pedals and a range of RS-specific displays for the car’s 10.1-inch infotainment system and ‘Virtual Cockpit’ digital instrument binnacle.

Like the eighth-generation Golf, the new Audi RS 3 will be based on the latest version of Volkswagen Group’s MQB underpinnings, albeit with a number of performance upgrades. Current testing mules sport chassis upgrades like lowered suspension and drilled brake discs with larger calipers – all of which should find their way onto the production model.

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[Nairrk]

2020 Audi RS3 price and specs

Audi Australia has announced the return of its RS3 hot hatch and sedan to local showrooms, following delays that pushed back a slated late 2019 debut.

The RS3 left Audi’s local line-up in late 2018, due to the brand needing to certify the model under the newer, harsher worldwide harmonised light vehicle test (WLTP) emissions testing standard.

As before, the 2020 Audi RS3 range is made up of Sportback hatch (pictured) and sedan body types, with a Carbon Edition package available on both variants.

The Audi RS3 Sportback opens the range at $83,800 plus on-road costs, with the sedan asking $2700 more at $86,500 plus on-road costs.

The 2020 Audi RS3 gets electro-magnetic sports suspension with varying drive modes, eight-piston brake calipers with 370mm brake discs up front and 310mm in the rear tucked behind 19-inch alloy wheels.

The RS3 comes with aggressive styling to differentiate it from the (outgoing) A3 it is based on. These include a revised front grille, larger air intakes on the front bumper and daytime running lights in the LED headlights.

Inside, the RS3 gets RS sports seats finished in Nappa leather, a 12.3-inch digital display with RS-specific functions, and wireless device charging.

Audi’s MMI infotainment system features on a 7.0-inch touchscreen with digital radio connectivity. Sound is produced by a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system and an additional subwoofer.

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