Audi RS3 Performance Edition gives Europe what America enjoys

Audi is making the European-spec RS3 a bit of extra particular by launching a limited-edition mannequin known as Efficiency Version. Provided as a sedan and as a hatchback, the mannequin will get a extra highly effective engine, an array of particular styling cues, and extra commonplace options.

Energy for each variants of the Efficiency Version comes from an evolution of the turbocharged, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine rated at 401 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. That is a rise of about seven horses over the regular-production RS3 bought in Europe, and the hike brings the Efficiency Version’s output on par with the American-spec mannequin’s. This largely explains why the Efficiency Version will not be bought in the USA: Lots of the goodies included within the bundle are already provided on our model of the hot-rodded sedan.

The five-cylinder sings its music by means of a regular RS Sports activities exhaust system with an edition-specific middle silencer, and it spins the 4 wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission. Audi quotes a 0-to-62-mph time of three.8 seconds and a 184-mph prime pace. The usual RS Sports activities suspension system ensures the RS3 Efficiency Version handles in addition to it accelerates, on and off the observe.

Visually, the Efficiency Version positive factors cool-looking 19-inch wheels that function a cross-spoke design, semi-slick Pirelli P Zero tires, blue brake calipers, and black exterior emblems, amongst different design options. The opening sequence within the headlight is particular to this mannequin as properly: Unlock it, and the driver-side LED daytime working lights flashes the numbers 3, 0, and 0 as a reminder of the restricted manufacturing.

Inside, the entrance passengers sit in commonplace bucket seats with blue stitching and a mix of leather-based and Dinamica upholstery. The driving force faces a steering wheel with a blue 12-o’clock mark, whereas the entrance passenger sits in entrance of a plaque engraved with the automotive’s serial quantity.

Manufacturing of the Audi RS3 Efficiency Version is restricted to 300 items. Patrons have 5 colours to select from: Nogaro Blue, Arrow Grey, Daytona Grey, Sebring Black Crystal Impact, and Glacier White Metallic. Pricing for the RS3 Sportback begins at €75,000 (round $73,900 on the present conversion fee) whereas the RS3 Sedan carries a base value of €77,000 (roughly $75,900). Deliveries will begin in 2023.