Audi has pulled no stops in raising our anticipation for the 2022 Audi RS3 model with no shortage in teases and leaks. Expected to have a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo gasoline mill, 400 HP, and 500 lb-ft of torque, expectations are quite high. The RS3 is expected to have an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h, making it one of the most anticipated Audi releases of the year.
The RS3, How It Started
When it comes to high-performance vehicles, Audi has constantly pushed the bar over the decades, meeting and sometimes, exceeding expectations. The RS3 model originated from parent models A3 and S3. Its announcement in November 2010 served as the kick-off for its first generation. The RS3 bore some resemblance to its parent models. However, it was available in a Sportback edition and served as a 5-door variant. It also came with a broader body and flared wheel arches, clearly distinguishing it from its predecessors.
The 2011 Audi RS3 came with a 2.5 TFSI Quattro 7AT motor providing 340 HP and 450 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of about 250 km/h and acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, it was a powerhouse in the market. However, it lacked a manual gearbox.
Fast forward to the 2020 model year, and the RS3 took power to the next level. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder providing 400 HP, it packed quite the punch. In addition to a redline of 6900 RP, the sound of the engine is one you wouldn't mind putting on repeat to get revved up. As for the acceleration, the 2020 Audi RS3 could go from 0 to 96km/h in 3.5 seconds. It didn't compromise on sharpness either, as it had excellent handling due to its responsive steering and agile suspension. An optional sport suspension was also available for individuals looking to maximize the model's potential. As impressive as these specifications were, and still are, the 2022 model is expected to boast higher numbers and better features.
The RS3's Sporty Design, Dope Or Nope?
The designs we have seen on official teases haven't given much away. They show a sporty rally-like design, after all, it's a sports model. The more recent closer looks show massive air inlets placed at the sides of the front grille, with embedded vents to channel as much air to the brakes as possible.
However, if the latest online leaks are anything to go by, we don't have to wait for the full official release to analyze every detail of the 2022 RS3. From the image above (not the best quality out there) you get to see the car in all its glory, and in that neon green paint as well—not quite sure how to feel about that. From the front, the RS3 Sedan and Sportback don't feature any differences. The car appears to incorporate a lot of glossy black elements, including the huge hexagonal grille, frame, and perhaps surprisingly, the logo. The wing mirror covers and the wheels also match the black, though the tires appear to be a bit small.
At the rear, the shiny black finish appears on the non-functional (that means fake) grille and air diffuser. Overall, the shiny plastic has a cheap look to it. It's a contrasting design that may or may not appeal to you.
The RS3 To Feature A Beastly Engine
The engine of the 2022 Audi RS3 packs more power than previous models. The prominent feature being the five-cylinder 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 400hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive setup is a given with the RS models, in addition to the seven-speed automatic gearbox. All these components will allow this latest model to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 290km/h.
The new Audi RS3 will also come with a new torque vectoring technology known as RS Torque Splitter. This technology improves the handling, especially for gripping around corners. It does this possible by electronically sending more torque to any rear wheels that need it most. Speaking of new additions and technology, a new drift mode is also available for getting sideways easier.
Estimated Price Of The 2022 Audi RS3
The official prices have not been revealed as of yet. However, the price may range between $60,000 and $70,000 for the 2022 Audi RS3 Sportback and Saloon models respectively. The Saloon model is likely to cost higher because of its extra features like a better sound system, carbon fiber inserts, and a few other details. Both models are expected to debut by the second half of this year.
Overall, as we get closer to the release of the 2022 Audi RS3, we expect to see more teasers and leaks to ease the wait.