Dutch website Autoliefhebber brings us some new and close up pics of the now familiar Audi RS3 test mule. We last saw pics of this prototype (note registration HN TT 342) back in June, with some video not long after. While there’s still nothing officially official coming from Audi we can learn a couple of things from these pics.
Inside you can make out a TT RS style flat bottom steering wheel. They’re quite a bit chunkier than the standard tiller found in the S3 Sportback on which the prototype is based. You will also note large cross drilled brake rotors up front. A better view of the front spoiler has also been captured showing a bit more definition than previous spy shots.
From these pics it’s not possible to see if the car is fitted with an S tronic or manual transmission. However, the TT RS is only available with a 6 speed manual box, so it may safe to assume the RS3 will come with any transmission you like so long as its manual.
Other interesting tidbits to note are the test mule is actually white underneath what appears to be a black vinyl wrap. You will also note the fitment of a roll cage and full on racing buckets from Recaro. Of course, there’s the data capturing hardware on the wheels as well.
[Source: Autoliefhebber]
13 replies on “A closer look at the Audi RS3 prototype”
Lima, are those rear arches flared or are your S3 ones the same?
Also, RS3 is DSG only…
RS5 is DSG only, but TT RS is manual only.
If we make the relatively safe assumption the RS3 will use the TT RS engine then it’s probably a reasonable conclusion to expect the RS3 will be manual too. Sounds like you have heard otherwise?
As for the guards, it’s a bit different comparing a coupe to a Sportback, but the car in pics seems to have slightly flared guards to me.
Yeah DSG only, Sportback only, limited numbers, and possibly Europe only. TTRS s-tronic is coming too, possibly same time as RS3.
Well that’s just pants! The manual TT RS was awesome. S tronic only in the RS3 would be just wrong.
Have a look at the steering wheel picture. Is that a metal paddle I spot?
They appear to be the standard size alu look paddles Audi uses on s models and rs6 etc. would love to see some beefy paddles like mercedes, or something out of the Lamborghini parts bin…..
They should hurry up – Focus RS just announced for Australia.
The Focus RS & RS3 will be worlds apart from a pricing stand point.
Sportback! …blechh!
Audi will need to be really careful on pricing this, IMO
Starting at 90k is my tip. Oh wait, that is my wish and not necessarily my tip lol. Please Audi Australia, make it 90k and i will add an Audi to my garage! Lima, use your ausmotive influence and power to make it happen!
I would like one of these very much I think. No manual option would be a bit of a mistake IMO.
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