Paris Motor Show: Audi unveils 400hp RS 3 sedan

Audi decided to grab the limelight at Paris Motor Show by revealing the new Audi RS 3, which makes 400hp (394bhp) from the 2.5-litre TSFI engine. It is same motor which also powers the TT RS. According to Audi, the new RS 3 is the first sedan in their history to use a transversely mounted configuration for its evocative powerplant. This engine is also a seven-time winner of an ‘International Engine of the Year’ category award.

With 394bhp, the new 2.5 TFSI now gets additional 33bhp more than its predecessor. The extra ponies make it the most powerful five-cylinder engine from Audi. Its boasts off 480 Nm of torque at 1,700-5,850 rpm. It might sound like we are throwing a lot of numbers, so to simplify this, the RS 3 does 0 to 100 km/h  in just 4.1 seconds. Though it's maximum speed is 250 km/h, but on request Audi can increase the electronically limited top speed to 280 km/h. The 2.5-litre engine is 26 kilograms lighter thanks to its light-alloy crankcase.

The five-cylinder motor is mated with the S tronic seven-speed dual clutch transmission while the quattro permanent all-wheel drive distributes the torque. Apart from the three drive modes comfort, auto and dynamic, RS 3 also comes with the optional RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control.

Compared to the A3, the RS 3's front track is wider by 20 millimetres and the rearr by 14 millimetres. The RS 3 comes standard with massive 19-inch alloy wheels and 235/35 tyres.

Apart from the gorgeous virtual cockpit, the RS 3 comes with 7-inch infotainment system along with navigation and MMI touch. It also comes with a touchpad for scrolling, zooming and writing. The 12.3-inch fully digital virtual cockpit comes in three display modes. This includes a special RS screen that moves the tachometer to the center. On the left and right information appears on tyre pressure, torque and g?forces. When the transmission is operating in manual mode, a scale with a colour background prompts the driver to use the steering wheel paddle or selector lever to upshift when approaching maximum revs.