Audi RS3 Sedan Prototype Spied During Testing
A camouflaged prototype believed to be the Audi RS3 Sedan has been spotted in testing, hinting at a more powerful saloon to join the A3 range.
A heavily camouflaged prototype believed to be the Audi RS3 Sedan has been spotted undergoing road testing, fuelling speculation that the German marque is preparing a high-performance saloon to sit above the S3 in its A3 range. The sighting comes despite previous statements from Audi suggesting the S3 would remain the range-topping A3 variant.
The prototype, photographed during development, features several cues typical of Audi’s RS models. These include a more aggressive body kit, larger alloy wheels and a lowered ride height compared to the standard A3 and S3 saloons. While the final production design is expected to differ from the test car, the visual changes point to a clear performance focus.
Performance expectations above S3
If launched, the RS3 Sedan would be positioned above the S3 Sedan, which is powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI engine producing 300hp and 380Nm of torque. The S3’s official figures include a 0-100km/h time of 5.3 seconds and a limited top speed of 250km/h. The RS3 is expected to offer a substantial performance increase, likely drawing on Audi’s experience with five-cylinder turbocharged engines, as seen in previous RS models.
Audi has not officially confirmed the existence or launch timing of the RS3 Sedan. However, the appearance of a prototype suggests development is underway. Previous reports have indicated that the RS3 could use a new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine, as referenced in related coverage of the TT RS and RS3 models (see Audi TT RS and RS3 Sedan set for new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo).
Market positioning and rivals
A production RS3 Sedan would give Audi a direct rival to compact performance saloons such as the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and the BMW M2 in some markets. The RS3 badge is already established in hatchback form, but a saloon variant would broaden Audi’s RS presence, particularly in markets where four-door models are favoured.
- Expected to be based on the A3 Sedan platform.
- Likely to use quattro all-wheel drive.
- Aggressive exterior styling distinct from S3.
- Potential for launch in 2015 or later, pending confirmation.
No official details from Audi
At the time of the prototype’s sighting, Audi had not issued any statements regarding the RS3 Sedan’s development or technical details. The company’s previous position was that the S3 would remain the top A3 variant, but the appearance of a test car suggests plans may have changed. Further information, including engine specifications and launch timing, is expected to emerge as the car moves closer to production.
For more on the technical direction of the RS3, see Audi TT RS and RS3 Sedan set for new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo. For confirmation of US market plans and body style availability, see Audi RS3 Sedan confirmed for US market, hatchback and estate ruled out.
