When it debuted in 2021, the Audi RS 3 immediately set a Nordschleife record for vehicles in the compact class. Anyone who is not yet satisfied with this can own a 400 hp (294 kW) engine that has been improved by Abt Sportsline for several months.
460 hp (338 kW) is the sovereign’s output. However, anyone who thinks that the final level has already been reached in the compact class does not know the world’s largest tuner for cars from the Audi and VW group. Because now in Allgäu, the RS 3 is going a step further.
Because with the ABT RS3-R Sportback, which is strictly limited to 200 units, the family business raises the bar even higher. It has a full 500 horsepower (368 kW) on its data sheet. “However, you should not postpone your appointment with our smart car for too long – because soon all the cars can be sold.”explains managing partner Hans-Jürgen Abt with a wink.
With the ABT Power R performance upgrade, an intercooler is used in addition to the mandatory AEC control unit. With the RS3-R, this combination not only provides the already mentioned additional 100 hp, but also results in a similar increase in torque, so that a maximum of 600 Nm is now available instead of 500 Nm.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h is significantly improved by increasing the performance: from 3.8 to 3.3 seconds. In addition, the exhaust system is now connected to a matte black four-pipe 95-millimeter stainless steel exhaust pipe.
Special chassis springs and sport stabilizers ensure that you don’t have to tighten the reins of this “hot hole” too much, even in sharp turns. Optionally, a full stainless steel V3 sport suspension can be fitted. The latter is a real highlight that allows for more than just a variable lowering of 20-40 mm on the front and rear axles. Rebound and pressure can be adjusted separately.
However, a special feature is the free bookable increase in the standard top speed limited to 300 km/h with the RS3-R – with the new myABTApp for Apple and Android devices. In addition, the performance characteristics, and thus the attractiveness of the vehicle, can be adapted to the needs of the individual at any time: the range ranges from ECO to SPORT to RACE. Users also get insight into their vehicle’s performance data – this includes, for example, the performance being currently reached or the coolant temperature and inlet air temperature.
In addition to 500 horsepower, the interior aero package is the RS3-R’s biggest feature. It is composed almost entirely of visible carbon with a high-gloss finish. The range includes the front lip, front slits, and mirror cover attachments as well as the rear apron and rear spoiler attachment. Additionally, there are glossy black fender attachments.
The look is emphasized with 20-inch ABT High Performance HR20 forged wheels, fitted with Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport R tires in 245/30 R20.
As a special edition model, the RS3-R also naturally delivers more on the interior than just the sporty, ready-made look. So you can sit here in upscale seating with the ABT and RS3-R logo. “ABT RS3-R 1/200” logo badge and door sills indicate the exclusive number of parts.
Visual performance is rounded off by the door entry lighting with the Abt logo, the floor mats with the RS3-R logo and the on/off switch cover. After all, such a powerful engine wants to be brought to life in a way befitting its stature.