Audi has set a provisional date for its first RS-badged compact sedan to land in SA and it can be expected in the second quarter of 2017.
Audi showed the RS3 Sedan at the Paris Motor Show a few weeks back. The 3-box version isn’t merely a booted version of the RS3 Sportback, but rather features an all-new 5-cylinder engine. The new engine makes it more powerful and faster than its sibling and, arguably more desirable.
The 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder engine produces 294 kW and 480 Nm of torque, up from the 270 kW and 465 Nm offered in the hatchback. The torque from the new engine is available from just 1 700 rpm up to 5 850 rpm, making it particularly tractable. Acceleration from standstill to 100 kph is just 4.1 seconds thanks to quattro and launch control – as well as the extra power. Top speed is obviously limited to 250 kph.
The RS3 Sedan has notable styling features, such as the body kit, boot spoiler and huge oval tailpipes. It also rides on a 20 mm wider front track and a 14 mm wider rear track.
From there, it’s business as usual with Nappa Leather seats, a flat-bottomed RS steering wheel and multiple driving modes to ramp up the excitement and noise. Audi’s virtual cockpit is now also available as an option on the RS3 Sedan.
Audi South Africa has pencilled in the second quarter of 2017 for the launch of the RS3 Sedan. In the meantime, here’s some content on the RS3 Sportback to whet your appetite.
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