Abt reveals new RS3-S with up to 485hp
Suffering from a lingering feeling that your Audi RS3 isn't punchy enough? Right this way...
Yes, you’re remembered correctly, there’s been an Abt RS3 before. That was the R, a 500hp, carbon-bodykitted monster that was about as extreme as a five-door family hatch can get. Abt has also offered its ECU tuning on the car for a little while, which makes sense given how well-known the venerable 2.5-litre turbo is. Now Abt has combined its milder tune for the RS3 with a little bit of R fairy dust to create this, the RS3-S.
The tuner reckons this new product represents the ‘golden mean’ between series production and the wild R, combining the 460hp upgrade (achieved through a separate control unit, leaving the original alone) with a few choice R goodies. They include 30mm lowering springs, 95mm tailpipes, 20-inch wheels and just a mild smattering of carbon fibre: the new rear spoiler and skirt are the main giveaways. Those who care about such things will be able to identify the RS3-S, most likely, as something a bit special, but given the colour palette available with the standard car - alongside a meaner look than ever before - it would be easy to imagine many going unnoticed.
The interior is also treated to ‘harmoniously balanced accessories’, including an Abt starter button, RS3-S badges and even floor mats unique to this model. ‘Subtle’ isn’t typically a word associated with RS Audis or Abt these days, but whenever new mats get a mention it’s clear this is a fairly modest upgrade.
For the whole thing - including the carbon fibre, wheels, interior bits and power (which can go to 485hp, if required) - Abt is asking €17,900 plus assembly for the hatch and €16,600 for the saloon. That’s £15,300 and £14,200 respectively, which is a pretty big financial commitment for a 60hp upgrade. But then the Abt badge does carry a lot of clout, and people do really love their RS3s. And the floor mats do look seriously smart. Early 8Y-era models are now from £45k, rising to £75k for one of the last in that stunning Sonoma Green.
It's 15k
The cars most likely leased
Shredding the warranty isn't smart
I get ABT have a service to sell but this will only appeal to buyers of pre loved cars already out of warranty?
We've all heard the horror stories of certain Influencer's getting their finance pulled after modding cars on lease so it has a limited appeal plus man maths to me says "car + modding or just buy a faster car?"
Faster pre loved car wins but I'm weird.
T1b
This generation of RS3 has moved on massively and the old bored tropes only apply to the clueless.
Probably the fastest A to B car.
I’ll always have a soft spot for the RS3 8V as the first car I ever drove but this is a good step on.
The whole concept even allowing for the fact it's been touched by ABT seems a bit yesterday. Unfair maybe but I think the likes of the GR Yaris even if not a direct competitor is far more interesting proposition.
Especially new front door! Even being in N.I where it isn’t really a thing I still would think hard about an RS3 or RS6.
I do think I could make the hatchback work however I just have one child currently.
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