Shortly after we had the opportunity to sample the new Audi A3 and S3, journalists over in Europe were testing out the flagship 2022 RS3 and found below are some of these reviews.
Like the old RS3, the new model is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder which pumps out 394 hp and 368 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque in European specification and 401 hp in the U.S. This engine is coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch S-tronic transmission that sends power through all four wheels, allowing the hot hatch to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.8 seconds and reach a 180 mph (290 km/h) top speed.
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On paper, all of these figures are very impressive but is the new Audi RS 3 any good to drive?
Of course it is. A key new feature of the RS3 is its use of the RS Torque Splitter that consists of an electronically-control multi-clutch package at the rear axle that allows for active and fully-variable torque vectoring on each of the rear wheels. This has also enabled Audi to introduce a drift mode.
No car is perfect, however, and the new RS3 does have some issues. Some of the reviewers state that the five-cylinder engine is much more muted than the old car, probably due to the use of new particulate filters in its exhaust system. It also has a bit of lag before it gets going, prompting Autocar to suggest the car could benefit from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system like the RS6.