More pics of Audi’s 270kW AMG-eater

Audi has released more official pictures of its new 270kW RS 3 that it will reveal at the Geneva motor show next month.

As announced in December, the new second-generation of the RS3 will be powered by a significantly re-engineered turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that sees the RS3 top 280km/h - but only if you pay extra to have the standard car’s 250km/h limiter raised.

Against the clock the all-wheel drive RS3 sprints from zero to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds - that’s 0.3s quicker than the Mercedes A45 AMG that also produces 5kW less than the fast Audi.

Weighing in 55kg lighter than the previous RS 3, the new car is based on the MQB platform which helps cut weight and realise a 10 per cent reduction in the NEDC combined fuel economy figure of its predecessor, down to 8.1L/100km, or 189g/km of CO2.

Available with just Audi’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a Haldex V clutch system, the RS 3’s all-wheel drive can shuffle between 50 and 100 per cent of the drive to the rear axle, with a maximum of half the torque being delivered to the front diff. The all-wheel drive also incorporates torque vectoring that helps turn-in.

That seven-speed transmission, meanwhile, also delivers faster gearshifts and has a built in launch control system for optimum getaways.

Catering for enthusiasts the new RS 3 has a new Sport + mode that helps it perform controlled drifts on low grip surfaces.

With a wider front and and rear tracks the RS 3 can be distinguished from the less powerful S3 from its blistered wheel-arches, along with its new front bumper that feed air to the engine, intercooler and (optional) huge 370mm, eight-piston calliper carbon ceramic front brakes. Standard RS 3s come with slightly small 310mm steel brakes with six-piston callipers.

As well as the optional ceramic brakes there will be plenty of performance-enhancing upgrades that include magnetic dampers, a louder exhaust, and a pair of sport seats that cut the kerb weight a further 7kg.

The RS 3 goes on sale in Europe shortly after its unveiling at Geneva.