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Spyshots: 2015 Audi RS3 Sportback First Photos

Tired of seeing Mercedes and BMW creeping in on its territory, Audi is getting ready to launch the RS version of its third generation compact hatch, soon to be its fastest hot hatch ever. We have the very first photos of this ultimate expression of compact power, taken while the car was undergoing testing in Germany.
2015 Audi RS3 Sportback 15 photos
Photo: SB-Medien
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Power will continue to come from the famous 2.5 TFSI engine, although it will be significantly more advanced than the old one. Output is going to be rated at 367 PS, with the yet unknown torque rating likely to be above 450 Nm.

With the S3 already claiming 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.8 seconds, we can expect the RS3 to claim the 4.5-second mark for itself. With the A45 AMG and M135i being only slightly slower, it will come down to personal preference when picking a winner. 4 vs 5 vs 6 cylinders, FWD vs RWD biased, sober vs funky design.

Compared to the S3, the RS3 will be more aggressive, with standard 19-inch wheels and available 20s. Two-branch exhaust, 10mm lowered suspension (over the S3) and a sportier interior will be added to the RS. Magnetic Ride will be optional, but S tronic should be standard. The car we spotted testing even had adaptive LED headlights, which might not be offered as standard for cost reasons.

The new RS3 will be the ultimate version of the A3, but it will also be efficient. Superior engine thermal management, better cooling of turbo gasses and possibly even direct+indirect fuel injection should cut consumption.

Only the 5-door body has been confirmed, although Audi might consider other styles as well, especially the sedan, which is the only gateway into the US market. 3-door and Cabrio versions are also possible, but it all depends on the sales numbers.

The unveiling of the RS3 8V will take place next April, with deliveries of the first customer cars taking place in July 2015
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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