What engine is in the Audi RS3?

[OPatrick]

The Audi RS3 is equipped with a 2.5T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 400 PS, a peak power output of 294 kW, and a maximum torque of 480 Nm. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Taking the 2017 Audi RS3 as an example, it is a 4-door, 5-seater sedan with body dimensions of: length 4479 mm, width 1802 mm, height 1399 mm, and a wheelbase of 2628 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 55 liters. The 2017 Audi RS3 features tire specifications of 255/30R19, with a front suspension using MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear suspension employing a multi-link independent suspension.

[AngeloLynn]

I've recently delved into the Audi RS3, and its engine is truly a star in the automotive world—a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder turbocharged powerhouse. With a precise displacement of 2480cc, it delivers a maximum horsepower of 400 PS and a peak torque of 500 Nm, unleashing power swiftly across the rev range. Audi has engineered the valves, pistons, and cylinder block with exceptional precision, combining direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to achieve the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and performance. What makes this engine particularly outstanding is its unique five-cylinder layout, producing a distinct and rhythmic roar that’s music to any car enthusiast’s ears. The responsive feel behind the wheel is amplified by the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just around 4 seconds. Audi also emphasizes reliability, with the engine boasting solid durability. However, being a high-performance unit, it’s crucial to pay attention to fuel quality and maintenance—avoid using low-octane gasoline, as it could impact longevity. In short, this engine isn’t just about raw power; it carries a touch of retro rally car DNA, making it the heart and soul of the RS3.

[OIker]

As a long-time Audi enthusiast, I believe the RS3's engine truly represents the brand's pride. It carries forward the classic lineage of Audi's five-cylinder engines, dating back to the Quattro rally car era in the 1980s. This 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine has been tuned to deliver 400 horsepower in the latest model, maintaining the uneven firing interval to produce its signature roar. Compared to older versions, it now includes a particulate filter to meet environmental standards, yet retains its powerful performance. The engine design emphasizes thermal management with excellent cooling, eliminating concerns about overheating at high speeds. Driving it, I can feel the linear acceleration, unlike the abruptness of some four-cylinder engines. In terms of reliability, Audi uses high-quality materials, ensuring trouble-free operation for up to 100,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. The price is reasonable, and for those interested in modifications, the potential is significant—for instance, an ECU remap can easily add 30 horsepower. This engine truly makes the RS3 a benchmark among hot hatches.

[VanEllie]

When driving the RS3, the first impression of its 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine is sheer madness. With 400 horsepower, the acceleration is intense, making overtaking on city roads as quick as lightning. The engine revs up rapidly, and the exhaust note is particularly exhilarating—Audi intentionally designed it with five cylinders to produce that distinctive roar, sounding just like a race car. Paired with Audi's Quattro system, the grip is incredibly stable, with no slipping even in rainy conditions. For daily use, the fuel consumption is reasonable, averaging around 10 liters per 100 km in combined conditions, and it's even more economical with the auto start-stop feature. However, in Sport mode, the engine response becomes more aggressive, making it hard to resist stepping on the gas pedal every time I head out. For maintenance, it's recommended to get a check-up every 10,000 km, and don't skimp on quality engine oil to avoid shortening the engine's lifespan.

[BeckettRose]

The heart of the RS3 is its 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 400 horsepower, which stands out among its competitors. Compared to the BMW M2's six-cylinder engine, the RS3's five-cylinder design offers a more distinctive sound and a smoother power curve. Its horsepower figures are close to the Mercedes-AMG A45's four-cylinder, but the five-cylinder's torque kicks in earlier, providing strong performance at low RPMs. In terms of engine construction, Audi employs advanced technology to handle high temperatures, ensuring good reliability without the common oil leakage issues. The downside is the strict emission controls, requiring premium 98-octane fuel. Maintenance costs are moderate, slightly higher than the Audi A3, but regular oil changes can prevent problems. Overall, this engine achieves an excellent balance of performance, ensuring the RS3 holds its own against rivals in the street car segment.