Audi unveils A3 clubsport quattro concept
We all know Audi is planning an RS3 in the near future to compete against the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG. Though no updates are available on the development of the RS3, the manufacturer unveiled the A3 clubsport quattro concept at the ongoing 2014 Wörthersee Meeting in Reifnitz, Austria. In all probability, this concept is likely to transform into the final production model of the RS3.
Based on the S3 sedan, which is all set to debut in India this year, the A3 clubsport is powered by a 2.5-litre TFSI engine that also powers the production Audi RS Q3. The 2480cc five-cylinder engine in the show car produces a mighty 518bhp and is mated to a seven-speed S-tronic automatic transmission. The car weights only 1527 kg, which translates into a power-to-weight ratio of 339.23bhp/ton. With the 600Nm of torque between 2300 and 6000rpm, The Audi A3 clubsport quattro concept accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 310 kmph. Slowing the concept down is accomplished by the brakes working in tandem with a fully-integrated air-brake that pops out of the boot lid. The air-brake reduces the stopping distance by nearly 40 feet when braking hard from 250kmph. We hope this tech will trickle down to the production version of the RS3 as well.
The Audi A3 clubsport quattro concept is based on VW’s prolific MQB platform. Compared to the S3 Sedan, the body of the concept has been lowered by 10mm, and is 4490mm long, 1856mm wide and 1382mm tall, with a wheelbase measuring 2631mm. The showcar wears a ‘Magnetic Blue’ colour which looks the business. The single frame grille up front is touched up with matte aluminum. The concept also features LED headlights. The interior, finished in black, features standard Audi fare including a seven-inch MMI display with an integrated navigation system. The driver and front passenger will sit on racing seats while the passengers at the back get the usual bench. A shift light in the tachometer indicates when the rev limit of 6900rpm is reached, allowing for optimum shifts.
