Report: Audi RS3 in the works, to be powered by 345-hp 2.5L 5-cylinder turbo

2011 Audi A3

According to spy shots that caught the hot hatch on the Nurburgring race track, Audi is apparently working on an RS3.

Sources suggest that the model will be powered by a 2.5L 5-cylinder turbo form the TTRS making an extra 10-hp for a total of 345-hp and a maximum torque of 332 lb-ft. The Audi RS3 will be mated to a 7-speed S tronic gearbox with steering-wheel mounted aluminum paddle shifters. No word on how fast 0-60 mph will come in but top speed is likely to be limited to 155 mph.

To make sure that the chassis can handle the extra power, Audi will throw in adaptable magnetic dampers and torque-vectoring rear differential as it does with recent RS models. The feature is capable of sending 85 percent of power to the rear wheels.

According to AutoExpress, Audi plans on making 2,700 units of the RS3. Seems like the BMW 1-Series M Coupe already has a competitor.

– By: Zain Haq

Source: AutoExpress