Audi RS 3 Competition Limited driving report: Perhaps the last one
The Audi RS 3 Competition Limited is more than just a further evolutionary stage of an already extremely sporty compact car - it also celebrates an anniversary: half a century of five-cylinder technology comes to fruition here, in a vehicle that once again proudly celebrates the combustion engine.
What began in 1976 in the Audi 100 with an impressive 136 hp at the time quickly developed further with the use of turbocharging - initially up to 306 hp in the legendary Sport Quattro. In combination with the Quattro all-wheel drive, the five-cylinder engine became a technical and emotional highlight. Whether in rallying, in the IMSA series or at Pikes Peak - the engine made motorsport history. To this day, a significant part of its fascination lies in the characteristic firing sequence 1-2-4-5-3, which provides the unmistakable sound.
Just in time for the anniversary, Audi is launching a strictly limited version: 750 units of the RS 3 Competition Limited. Each vehicle is numbered consecutively - our test car bears the pre-series number 000. It is clear that this is not just about performance, but also about exclusivity.
Visually, the Competition Limited sets beautiful accents. Matt black carbon fiber elements run through the entire vehicle - from the front lip to the side skirts and rear bumper. The side flap wings at the front, which were developed in the wind tunnel and provide additional downforce in combination with a central insert in the roof spoiler, are particularly striking.
There is a choice of three exclusive paint finishes: Malachite Green (a tribute to the Sport Quattro), Glacier White matt and the typical RS color Daytona Grey pearl effect.
The biggest revolution is in the detail - more precisely in the suspension. For the first time, Audi has opted for a coilover design in the RS3. The front dampers are height-adjustable and have external oil reservoirs, while the rear dampers have a robust twin-tube design.
A nod to motor racing: for the first time, the rider can do it himself. The low-speed and high-speed damping as well as the compression damping can be individually adjusted using black and red adjusting screws. The tools supplied and detailed instructions in the logbook make the setup surprisingly accessible.
A reinforced tubular stabilizer on the rear axle and stiffer rear springs also ensure greater precision. Ceramic brakes on the front axle are standard.
In the interior, Audi has opted for a mixture of motorsport and understatement. RS sports seats upholstered in microfiber fabrics, white instruments and a deliberately minimalist cockpit create a driver-oriented atmosphere. No overloaded display landscape, but a functional dashboard with exactly the information you need.
Four kilograms of insulating material have been removed - a small intervention with a big effect. The driver is acoustically closer to the engine, the sound is more intense and authentic. This is supported by exhaust flaps that open faster and further.
In 2021, we described the RS 3 as a "beast suitable for everyday use". The Competition Limited goes one step further. With 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 290 km/h, it delivers impressive acceleration, but its true strength lies in the interaction between the chassis, all-wheel drive and torque splitter. Corners are negotiated with a precision and stability that surprises - and delights - even experienced drivers.
The steering, brakes and shifting behavior are even sharper, more direct and uncompromising. The suspension provides enormous feedback without being uncomfortable in everyday driving. You can tell that the engineers not only had a clear vision for this project, but also enjoyed implementing it.
Not all markets can enjoy this special model. Due to a lack of homologation - for the seats, for example - the USA and Canada are excluded. Instead, other markets will receive defined quotas, including Japan with 100 and Mexico with 50 vehicles.
Of the total of 750 units, the Sportback will account for the majority, although a saloon with notchback will also be offered. Of particular interest to collectors: specific components of the Competition Limited are not available individually - they are reserved exclusively for this model.
In view of the upcoming Euro 7 standard, one thing is certain: the five-cylinder will be history in Europe by mid-2027. It may live on in other markets, but in this country the RS3 Competition Limited is likely to be the last of its kind.
This is precisely why it is more than just a sporty compact car - it is a piece of automotive history, an emotional statement in a time of upheaval. Perhaps this makes it easier to get over the proud price: at least 108,365 euros must change hands, more than 40,000 euros above the regular RS 3. (aum)
Data Audi RS 3 Sportback Competition Limited
Length x width x height (m): 4.39 x 1.85 x 1.44
Wheelbase (m): 2.63
Engine: R5 petrol engine, 2480 cc, turbo, direct injection
Power: 195 kW / 400 hp at 5600-7000 rpm
Max. Torque: 500 Nm at 2250-5600 rpm
Top speed: 290 km/h (governed)
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 3.8 sec.
Average fuel consumption: 9.3 liters
CO2 emissions: 214 g/km (Euro 6d)
Unladen weight / payload: min. 1640 kg / max. 415 kg
Trunk volume: 282-1104 liters
Tires: 265/30 R19 front, 245/35 R19 rear
Base price: 108,365 euros
More info for topic: Audi RS3 competition
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Engine of the Audi RS3 Competition.
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