The new Audi RS 3 in four-door format is a true junior superchart. The car's RS Torque Splitter differential gives it a sense of agility not seen in any small Audi RS model to date, and the car's ballistic speed is very fast.
It delivers power to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but the model's ingenious new RS torque divider is the biggest change in the specifications of its predecessor.
This new differential is equipped with an electronically controlled clutch for each rear half shaft that sends more drive torque to the outer wheels in the corners to help turn the car from the rear and make the RS 3 feel more agile.
Different drive modes determine how the engine is powered and with the two axles working in harmony, the RS 3 will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8s – a level of performance unmatched by some high-end sports cars.
This statement in motion feels good, with great traction and rampant motors that pull hard and make wonderful noises in mid-range; the whistle sound from the turbocharger covers the rough tracks emitted by the exhaust pipes, some of which are enhanced in a sporty environment. The transmission shifts fast enough, the dynamic mode changes significantly, and the degree of ambiguity between comfort ratios is relaxed.
In order to control the performance provided, the suspension has been completely modified with an increase of 1° negative camber on the front wheels. There are stiffer lower wishbones and new pivot bearings at the front, while the subframe is stronger. At the rear, the new anti-roll bar adds a new multi-link layout. The whole vehicle is also 10mm lower than the S3.
The £57,900 Launch Edition model (of which only 96 Sportbacks and sedans will be available in the UK) also comes standard with adaptive RS suspension, which could otherwise be used as an option. Compared to the slightly irritable S3 located below it, this RS 3 is more comfortable for everyday use, but more powerful at the other end of the scale.
With excellent grip, the RS 3 offers excellent all-weather performance, while it's more agile and alert than any previous RS 3.
There is an "RS Torque Rear" drift mode setting, but this is not the most relevant feature. Instead, it's gratifying how big the RS torque splitter is in everyday fast driving.
You can choose between comfort, balance and dynamic modes, which really help pull your car through corners when you step on the accelerator. This feeling may take some time to get used to, and the car does turn from the rear, and it will be noticeable in some situations that you might not expect (for example, through a faster, wider curve).
In addition to the newly discovered comfort, there is plenty of space at the rear, while the luggage in the form of a 321L sedan supports this level of practicality.
In fact, the RS 3's standard digital dashboard features a new "track" design, while other custom elements, including a pair of supportive sports seats, create a more racing atmosphere.
The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system works just like any other A3 version. If you really start taking advantage of the car's performance, be prepared not to approach the claimed 31.4 mpg and 207g/km CO2 efficiency claims (an improvement over its predecessor). However, focusing on this fact ignores the point of RS 3.
Without a doubt, this is the better RS3. Given the uncertain future of the Audi five-cylinder engine, this could make it the best RS3 ever.
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