It's just a concept, don't get too excited. But still, as a signal of intent for future fast Audis, this A3 Clubsport Quattro augurs rather nicely.
Intent is clear from this angle!
For this year's Worthersee concept Audi has taken the 2.5-litre five cylinder turbo, as used in the
RS Q3
TT RS
RS3
, and installed it in the new A3 saloon. With just a tad more power. A new turbo, intercooler plus tweaks to the intake and exhaust have liberated 525hp from that engine, along with 442lb ft. Augmented by the DSG's launch control, Audi is claiming a 0-62mph time of 3.6 seconds as well as a 192mph top speed. In an A3!
Predictably there are myriad tweaks elsewhere to contain that power. Audi says the quattro system has been 'specially designed' for the increased torque but is more specific elsewhere. There is aluminium in the front suspension to reduce unsprung mass along with adjustable springs and dampers. And not just in the normal Audi Drive Select parameters; they're coilover units infinitely adjustable via the struts. As standard the clubsport sits 10mm lower than an S3 on 21-inch wheels, shod in 275/25 tyres. Anyone wish to speculate on the ride?
Carbon ceramic brakes sit behind 21s
The brakes are 370mm carbon ceramics all round, reassuring in an A3 that's faster than a V8 R8. Moreover, Audi has fitted an airbrake which reputedly reduces the stopping distance from 155mph by 12m. It can't be seen yet but we're promised the rear segment of the boot raises to nearly vertical 'in the blink of an eye'.
If Audi ever make an RS3 saloon, let's hope it looks akin to this. What a fabulously mean silhouette. The rear in particular exudes menace with two huge exhaust outlets, a giant diffuser and those swollen arches clearly visible.
Audi's theme for this year's Worthersee meet is 'Audi Sport'. We'd wager the A3 clubsport certainly gets that message across! Watch this space for the other Worthersee show cars as they are revealed.