Strap into the 2024 Audi RS3 and get ready for an exhilarating ride. This small sports sedan is designed to thrill its driver, with a powerful five-cylinder engine and impressive performance capabilities. With its assertive styling and track-ready features, the RS3 is a force to be reckoned with on the road.
The standout feature of the RS3 is its unique five-cylinder engine. This turbocharged powerhouse delivers an impressive 401 horsepower, giving the sedan plenty of speed and acceleration. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which provides smooth and precise shifts. The RS3 also features a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-biased setting that allows for controlled drifting.
When it comes to performance, the RS3 does not disappoint. It has upgraded brakes, a stiffer suspension setup, and stickier performance tires, making it a true track-ready machine. During testing, the RS3 achieved a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds at 117 mph. Its feisty nature and composed handling make it a joy to drive on both the racetrack and regular roads.
Despite its performance capabilities, the RS3 also has a softer side. It offers a comfortable cabin with luxury features, making it a versatile choice for everyday driving. The front seats are aggressively bolstered for added support during spirited driving, while the rest of the passenger space is identical to the A3 and S3 models. The interior design is sleek and modern, with a high-mounted air vent system and a digital gauge cluster. The RS3 also offers optional features such as a head-up display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the RS3 is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. During real-world testing, it outperformed its EPA estimate with a result of 33 mpg on a 75-mph fuel-economy route. This makes it a relatively efficient option for a high-performance sports sedan.
When it comes to safety, the RS3 offers a mix of standard and optional driver-assistance features. Standard features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
In terms of pricing, the RS3 starts at nearly $63,000 and offers few options. For those planning on taking their RS3 to the racetrack, the optional Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R track tires are recommended for their transformative grip and performance. However, for everyday driving, the standard summer rubber is a more practical choice.
Overall, the 2024 Audi RS3 is an impressive small sports sedan that offers thrilling performance and a comfortable cabin. Its unique five-cylinder engine and track-ready features make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re looking for a car to race around the track or cruise around town, the RS3 delivers on all fronts.
