2018 is a landmark year for the U.S., as the RS3 makes its way across the Atlantic to North America for the first time. Although luxury lives on this continent too, Audi keeps many of its RS lines in Europe. We still don't get the RS3 Sportback, but make no mistake: this is a big deal. Read on and learn why.
A Luxury Sedan to be Experienced
The 2018 Audi A4 has always managed a perfect balance of beauty and brawn, so it's no surprise that it is considered the most well-rounded vehicle in its category.
1) Power & Performance Aplenty
If you combine the TT RS's five-cylinder engine with the A3 body shell, room and trunk spacious enough for four people, you have the 2018 RS3 in a nutshell. The RS3 sports a newly developed, all-aluminum turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine that has the 2.5 L displacement of the iron block unit (the prior iteration), but it is 57 lbs lighter. Meanwhile, an increased boost pressure from the revised cylinder means more power -- 400 horsepower - at 5,850 to 7,000 rpm - which is an unbelievable 33 horsepower increase.
Car aficionados say that there's nothing more satisfying than the pointed grumble of a five-cylinder turbo. Add the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, and you have a robust contender for best sedan masquerading as a race car. The RS3 sedan boasts a 7 speed S Tronic dual clutch transmission and a Quattro all-wheel drive using a hydraulically controlled clutch pack, which diverts torque to the front wheels for the curve-hugging and control that drivers love.
2) Inner & Outer Beauty
Want a sporty but sophisticated vibe? You got it. The RS3 boasts a deeper bumper with "Quattro" towards the bottom of the grille surround -- as well as additional air intakes and platinum slats. You also have two, gloriously wide tailpipes, a lip spoiler on the end of the trunk lid, and a working diffuser. 19-inch aluminum wheels exclusive to the RS3 come standard, but for that superspy look, you might consider the Black Optic Package, which adds black housings for mirror caps, black grille surround, and black rear lip spoiler.
3) Superior Standard Features & Options
Luxury and comfort come standard in the RS3. Blind spot monitoring, a backup camera, heated front seats are just a few of our favorite features. Additionally, drivers can also expect:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, HD Radio, Bluetooth, dual USB ports
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- full LED headlights and daytime running lights/fixed all-weather light
- Keyless entry
- Panoramic sunroof.
As if it couldn't get any better, Audi redefines "perfect" by offering a Dynamic plus package, which takes your top speed to 174 mph and gives you a carbon engine cover, direct TPMS, front ceramic brakes, and the FS fixed sports suspension.
Surpass Your Expectations of a Sedan
If there's anything our 2018 Audi RS3 Review demonstrates, it's that we North Americans are about to change the way we think of sedans. Of course, this is perfectly aligned with our philosophy at Audi Meadowlands, Powered by Benzel-Busch. Surpassing customer expectations is why we are your go-to Audi dealership in NJ.
Explore the latest and greatest Audi models at Audi Meadowlands, Powered by Benzel-Busch. Contact us today to schedule a test drive or inquire about lease specials!