The new Audi RS3 is a thrilling daily driver

In a recent press release, Audi announced that it will be launching the refreshed Audi RS3 Saloon and Sportback models set to offer high-performance driving on both track and thoroughfare.

Audi packed the new RS3 with the Audi turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI) engine and mated the nine-time “International Engine of the Year” award winner with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

This powertrain setup gives the Audi RS 3 a top speed of 180mph and lets it speed from standstill to 60mph in just 3.8 seconds.

“There are fewer more iconic engines in the world than Audi’s 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder. Now more powerful than ever before, and with class-leading performance, figures to back up its striking new design, the introduction of the RS3 Sportback and Saloon reinforce Audi Sport's commitment to setting the benchmark in every segment," said Audi UK Director Andrew Doyle.

In addition, the new Audi RS3 will feature new updates which make the compact sports car safe and sporty. One of these new features is the torque splitter which replaces the rear axle differential and the previous multiple disc clutch package on the rear axle.

This technology optimizes torque in various driving situations and reduces the car’s tendency to oversteer.

Audi also equipped the new RS3 with driving modes that complement the new torque splitter including Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency, RS Individual, and the drift-oriented mode, the RS Torque Rear.

Supporting the new RS3 will be the newly developed model-specific shock absorbers and valve system designed and engineered to enhance the performance and capabilities of the new compact performance car. It will be coupled with similarly new six-piston steel brakes.

Audi says that the RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control and the ceramic brake system with a pedal characteristic curve specially adapted to the brake booster will be offered as optional add ons.

Control can be carried out through the three‑spoke RS Sport multifunctional leather steering wheel which features a flattened bottom with built-in, high-quality die-cast zinc paddle shifters.

Alternatively, customers can opt for the Design package which features a 12 o’clock stripe allowing drivers to quickly see the steering wheel orientation in dynamic driving situations. A rounded RS steering wheel with hands-on detection is also available.

“With the third generation of the Audi RS3 Sportback and the second generation of the Audi RS3 Saloon, we now offer premium sports cars that are suitable for everyday use and equally thrilling to drive on public roads and racetracks. They represent the entry point into our RS world and, thanks to the torque splitter, the ultimate in an outstanding performance in the compact segment,” said Audi Managing Director Sebastian Grams.

The new Audi RS3 will also feature a redesigned exterior with a new “singleframe” grille flanked by LED lights on each side that light up to show a checkered flag. RS-specific front and rear bumpers also add to the sporty look as well as other design elements including an additional air outlet, redesigned rocker panels, and RS exhaust system with two large oval tailpipes.

The updated Audi RS3 will ride on 19-inch 10-Y spoke design wheels with five‑Y spoke wheels with RS branding to be made available as an optional add-on.

Audi says that the new RS3 will come in two colors (Kyalami green and Kemora grey) and four specifications (RS3, Carbon, Launch Edition, and Vorsprung). Orders will be accepted in the UK starting mid-August this year with deliveries expected to commence at the end of the year.

Pricing starts at £50,900 for the RS3 Sportback while the RS 3 Saloon will start with a £51,900 sticker price.

Photos from Audi

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