An updated version of the Audi RS3 has been confirmed by the automobile manufacturer and it will be launched at this year’s Geneva motor show.
The upcoming model will go against the BMW M140i and the Mercedes Benz A45 cars. It has been revealed ahead of the motor show so as to keep the press and public interested in what Audi has to offer. The company confirmed that the 2017 RS3 hatchback will be powered by a five-cylinder turbocharged engine. The heavily tweaked variant of the powertrain will provide much better acceleration than the engine used to power the RS3 saloon variant.
With the improved 2.5-liter engine, the car is capable of delivering an impressive 394 horsepower combined with 354 lb feet of torque. The engine is mated to a seven speed double clutch S-Tronic gearbox. The 2017 Audi RS3 can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds with a top speed of 155 miles per hour. If you are not fully satisfied with the top speed, the engineering team will be more than happy to tune the model to make it go up to 174mph. That’s such a huge benchmark for the model and will be designed to meet the expectations of speed enthusiasts.
Compared to the RS3 hatchback performance, the Mercedes and BMW cars fall slightly behind. The M140i xDrive can reach 60mph in 4.6 seconds while the A45 4Matic does the same in 4.2 seconds. Made to offer the best of customized driving experience, the Audi model is equipped with three different driving modes. You can choose between Comfort, Auto and Dynamic. With specific changes made to the gearbox, throttle and steering, these modes effectively change the way the car works. Buyers can choose to upgrade to RS Sport suspension system with adaptive damper control if they prefer to have stiff controls for a more controlled driving experience.
The front bumper has undergone a major overhaul with the large RS3 badge in the middle. It combines large air ducts and splitter that provides an aggressive look for the car. The headlights are equipped with matrix LED setup, a proprietary system used in all latest Audi models. Apart from the exterior changes, the 2017 Audi RS3 has all the connectivity options and a luxurious interior. The company didn’t detail much of it but when the Geneva motor show reveal takes place, they will discuss all the info including pricing and release date.