The Audi RS3 has long been one of the market’s most potent hot hatches and eager to make it even more punchy, Audi has launched the RS3 Performance Edition that’s capped at just 300 units globally.
Much like the standard car, the RS3 Performance Edition is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. However, whereas this engine ordinarily delivers 394 hp, Audi has massaged that up to 401 hp while torque remains the same at 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) between 2,250 rpm and 5,700 rpm. This extra power was achieved by increasing the boost pressure by 0.1 bar and altering the RS sports exhaust system.
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Working alongside this engine is a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission that sends power through all four wheels. Audi has not released acceleration times for the car but does say it can hit 186 mph (300 km/h) when equipped with the RS Plus Dynamic Package option.
Elsewhere, the car benefits from a set of new adaptive dampers and sits on distinctive 19-inch dark matte grey wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires. Audi has also fitted a black rear diffuser and will sell the RS3 Performance Edition exclusively with black badging. Showcased here in Nogaro Blue, customers will also be able to choose between Daytona Gray, Arrow Gray, Sebring Black, Sebring Black Crystal, and Glacier White.
Some minor tweaks have also been made in the cabin that’s fitted with bucket seats as standard with Dinamica microfiber and Nappa leather. Mercato Blue accents are also found throughout and the car features a special ‘1 of 300’ badge on the dashboard. The 10.1-inch infotainment display has also been tweaked with a carbon fiber background.
Market-specific pricing for the Audi RS3 Performance Edition has not yet been announced but we know it starts at €87,000 ($85,833) in Germany.
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