Audi TT RS and RS3 Sedan set for new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo
Audi is preparing both the TT RS and RS3 Sedan with an all-new turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, targeting around 400hp and a debut at the Beijing Motor Show.
Audi is preparing to launch the next TT RS and RS3 Sedan with a completely new turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, according to reports citing sources inside the company. The new engine is not a revision of the existing five-cylinder but a fresh development, sharing only its displacement and cylinder count.
The TT RS is set to be the first model to feature the new powerplant, with its world premiere scheduled for the Beijing Motor Show (Auto China 2016) opening on 25 April. The RS3 Sedan, which will follow, is also expected to use the same engine when it arrives in the United States as a 2018 model year vehicle.
What changes with the new engine?
Audi's current turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder has powered both the outgoing TT RS and RS3, but the new engine is described as a clean-sheet design. While it retains the same displacement and forced induction, it is not a direct evolution of the existing unit. Details on construction and internal changes have not been released, but the move suggests Audi is aiming for improved performance, emissions and possibly weight reduction.
Performance and transmission
The RS3 Sedan is tipped to run from 0 to 60mph in just four seconds, thanks to the new engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This would put it among the quickest compact performance saloons on the market. The engine is also expected to be adopted by the facelifted RS3 Sportback for European markets in due course.
- TT RS to debut new engine at Beijing Motor Show
- RS3 Sedan to use same engine for US and other markets
- Facelifted RS3 Sportback likely to follow with new engine
Positioning and rivals
With a targeted output of around 400hp, the new TT RS and RS3 Sedan will be positioned directly against high-performance models such as the Mercedes-AMG A45 and BMW M2. The adoption of a bespoke five-cylinder engine remains a key differentiator for Audi in this segment, where most rivals rely on four-cylinder units.
Further details on the engine and official performance figures are expected when the TT RS is unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show. Until then, Audi enthusiasts will be watching closely for confirmation of specifications and market launch dates.
