Audi RS 3 performance edition: sportier, stronger, faster, and limited

Audi has released the sportiest compact car from Audio Sport, the RS 3 performance edition, which has 407 horsepower and a top speed of 186 mph. This car is faster and more powerful than any other edition in the previous series.

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The performance edition also uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine like the standard trim but generates extra horsepower with an altered sports exhaust system. Audi stepped it up with a sportier feel with bucket seats, ceramic brakes, and adaptive chassis standard in the performance edition.

Interested owners will find several colors available: Nogaro Blue, Arrow Gray, Daytona Gray, Sebring Black Crystal Effect, and Glacier White Metallic.

The boosted engine delivers 299 kW and 5,700 to 7,000 revolutions per minute with 369 lb-ft of peak torque. The standard edition has a modified silencer on the exhaust flap, but that was modified and opened further for the performance edition - so it will generate more noise than the entry-level trim.

RS3 performance edition goes 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds, powered by a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

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Audi's inclusion of the RS Torque Splitter improves agility, reduces understeer, and provides increased stability when driving in wet conditions. Drive torque is actively distributed through two multi-plate clutches which can be electronically controlled for distribution between each rear wheel.

The RS monitor shows drivers vital information such as coolant temperature, engine and transmission oil levels, g-forces, tire pressures, and similar metrics. Audi included a virtual cockpit that shows all relevant performance-related information such as lap times, g-forces, and acceleration times.

The Audi RS 3 performance edition will only be available in 300 units total, with each one numbered. The Sportback model starts at €75,000 and the Sedan will cost €77,000, with delivery expected to start in early 2023.