The stiff body lays the cornerstone for the Audi RS3 Sportback's precise handling; the chassis is what makes it happen. The four-link rear suspension - with a track measuring 1,528 millimeters (60.16 inches) - is anchored to a subframe and features high-strength-steel control arms that allow it to handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately.
Widened to a 1,564-millimeter (61.57-inch) track, the front suspension is a McPherson strut construction, also with a separate subframe. Key components of the construction are made of aluminum. Thanks to its electromechanical drive, the rack-and-pinion steering is highly efficient, with a sporty-direct gear ratio of 16.2:1.
Coil springs and redesigned shock absorbers provide the vertical support. The sports suspension lowers the body of the Audi RS3 Sportback by 25 millimeters (0.98 inch) compared with the A3. The new range-topping model in the A3 series boasts 19-inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with 235/35 series tires at the front and 225/35 at the rear. The wheels come standard with machine-polished titanium-look styling, but are optionally available in black with a red rim flange.
The internally ventilated disks measure 370 millimeters (14.57 inches) in diameter at the front and 310 millimeters (12.20 inches) at the rear. The front friction rings are perforated for maximum heat dissipation. They are connected by hollow pins to the aluminum brake disk covers, which are encircled by four-piston fixed calipers painted a high-gloss black and bearing RS logos. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) features a Sport mode and can be switched off entirely.
Precisely guided by its responsive steering, the Audi RS3 Sportback eagerly takes to curves and exits them with agility, stability, and serenity. The stability limit is extremely high, an effortless mastery that rounds off the character of this powerful compact car.
2011-2012 model audi RS3 sportback video
