Audi Teases New RS 3, Will Arrive In America Next Year

The redesigned RS 3 is inching closer to production as Audi has kicked off the teaser campaign for the high-performance sedan and hatchback.

Shown wearing RS-branded wraps, the models have an aggressive front fascia with a unique mesh grille. The cars have also been equipped with sportier air intakes, unique ducting and a front splitter.

Continuing down the sides, we can see front fender vents and aerodynamic side skirts. The models have also been outfitted with lightweight wheels that are backed up by a high-performance braking system.

Lastly, the cars have a ventilated rear bumper and a massive dual exhaust system. We can also see a small spoiler on the sedan and a modest diffuser.

Also Read: Audi’s Latest Touring Race Car Gives Us A First Look At The New RS3

Audi didn’t say much about the models, but Autocar is reporting they’ll use the same turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine as the RS Q3. It produces 395 hp (294 kW / 400 PS) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. The engine is connected to a seven-speed S tronic transmission, which sends power to a standard quattro all-wheel drive system. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

While Audi was tight-lipped about the cars, the teasers were released as part of an effort to highlight their sustainability efforts. In particular, the company said they expect to offer “more than half of our high-performance models in partially or fully electrified form as early as 2024.” That figure could climb to 80% by 2026 and Audi will only offer electrified high-performance models by the end of the decade.

Audi hasn’t said when the RS 3 will be introduced, but the company told us the model is coming to America next year.