TEST DRIVES
2022 Audi RS3 – The Race Demon Returns
The 2022 Audi RS3 comes packed with an impressive 401-hp turbocharged five-cylinder banger, the company’s latest addition to its sporty luxury sedans. It continues to be based on the larger A3 and the sportier S3, but this time it comes packed with more power and a well-designed chassis, which is tuned to racing specs.
The RS3 now competes with rivals the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Sedan and the BMW M2 Coupe. That said, the unusual engine of this beast gives it the advantage in the soundtrack department. The sharp creases, and its nicely polished design, both on the inside and outside, are meant to appeal to audiences that love sportiness without compromising luxury.
What’s New in 2022?
The 2022 Audi RS3 skipped a year in 2021, which makes the 2022 model the next one after the 2020. However, this was necessary as the second generation needed a way to distinguish itself from all the others. This year it has with a redesign, despite sharing its platform with the S3 and A3.
Audi has made the already legendary five-cylinder even better. The result is greater torque, greater pull, greater top speed. And the whole thing topped off with an unmistakable sound. These are the features that power the latest generations of the Audi RS 3 Sportback and RS 3 Sedan to the top of the compact segment. The torque splitter, used for the first time in an Audi, also plays a part in this, providing greater lateral dynamics and stability. The more expressive design combined with RS-specific controls turns the latest RS 3 models into premium sports cars suitable for everyday use.
How Does It Perform?
We must say that specs alone don’t do the 2022 Audi RS3 justice. The five-cylinder engine gives it a unique thumping roar, which was pleasing with the outgoing model and is better this year.
The latest iteration comes with a 2.5-litre engine, packing 401 horses, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, which shifts like a dream.
The all-wheel-drive system is standard and includes a torque vectoring rear differential, coupled with Audi calls drift mode. Compared to the S3 and the A3, the 2022 Audi RS3 has better brakes, a stiffer racing suspension, and sticker performance tires.
0-60mph on our test track recorded 3.3 seconds and is a formidable quarter-mile runner at just 11.8 seconds running at 117mph.
Interior Design and Comfort
Passenger space inside the 2022 Audi RS3 is nearly as much as the S3 and A3, but the bolstered seats are much more aggressively designed. The dashboard looks busy but exciting. The high-mounted air vents directly throw air in your face with digital gauges that are bright and easy to see during the day. However, you can also opt for the optional heads-up display.
Below the touchscreen are physical buttons for climate control, and a bin underneath is tied in with the centre console.
The infotainment system is similar to what you’ll find on the S3 and A3, which is a 10.1-inch screen mounted in the centre of the dash. The screen is touch-sensitive, but buttons on the steering wheel and voice commands can also be used.
The system includes support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. However, wi-fi hotspots and wireless phone charging are subscription-based, with a built-in navigation feature.
Final Word
The 2022 Audi RS3 is one heck of a vehicle. Compared to the outgoing model, it is faster, easier to maneuver and has more space, all of which makes it worth the upgrade if you are thinking about it. But it is also the perfect vehicle to buy if you want something fast and practical at the same time.
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