Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y) specifications and photos
The 2021 Audi RS 3 Sportback represents the highest-performance tier of the fourth-generation A3 lineup. This five-door compact hatchback combines aggressive styling with a potent five-cylinder powertrain and advanced all-wheel-drive technology.
Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y) at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Introduced in July 2021, the 8Y generation of the RS 3 Sportback retains its core philosophy: delivering serious performance within a compact footprint. While horsepower remains steady at 400 hp compared to its predecessor, Audi has widened the power band and increased torque to 500 Nm. A major mechanical update for this generation is the introduction of the RS Torque Splitter on the rear axle, which replaces the previous differential with two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches. This setup allows for precise torque vectoring, distributing power between the rear wheels to mitigate understeer and even enabling a dedicated RS Torque Rear drift mode for track use.
- Power: 400 hp
- Engine displacement: 2480 cc
- Transmissions: 7 S-tronic
- Seating: 5 seats
Photos, trims and specifications for Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y)
This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2021 generation.
Estimate fuel cost
Use trim-level fuel consumption data to estimate monthly and yearly fuel spending.
Fuel costs are estimates. Real consumption can change with driving style, traffic, tires, weather, load, and market-specific equipment.
Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y) overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
Distinguishing the RS model from standard A3 variants are significantly wider air intakes and a unique honeycomb mesh grille. The front fenders are flared and incorporate functional aerodynamic vents. At the rear, the design is defined by a pronounced diffuser housing two large oval exhaust tailpipes, with an active valve exhaust system available as an option. The car sits on standard 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels and features full LED lighting all around, upgradeable to matrix LED headlights.
Interior
The cabin reflects the car's performance focus with heavily bolstered sports seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The digital interface includes a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch central touchscreen, both featuring RS-specific graphics and menus. Buyers can customize the interior further with available carbon fiber trim pieces and RS design packages that add red or green accents to the cabin.
Performance
Power comes from Audi's acclaimed 2.5-liter TFSI turbocharged inline-five engine, producing 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system. This combination propels the hatchback from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed limited to 250 km/h. Standard performance hardware includes a lowered sports suspension, progressive steering, and high-performance steel brakes with six-piston front calipers.
Practicality
Despite its aggressive performance envelope, the RS 3 Sportback remains a practical five-door hatchback. It seats five passengers and offers 282 liters of cargo space behind the second row. The compact dimensions (4389 mm in length and 2631 mm wheelbase) make it relatively maneuverable in urban environments, while the standard all-wheel drive provides capable all-weather traction.
Safety and tech
The technological centerpiece of the RS 3 is its drivetrain management, particularly the RS Torque Splitter which actively manages traction and handling balance. Inside, the dual-screen setup handles infotainment and vehicle settings. Optional adaptive suspension allows drivers to switch between three distinct damping profiles to suit different driving conditions, while available ceramic front brakes offer enhanced stopping power and fade resistance.
Buyer notes
Prospective buyers should note that the RS 3 Sportback is a highly specialized performance vehicle. When configuring, consider whether the standard sports suspension and steel brakes meet your needs, or if the optional adaptive dampers and ceramic brakes are worth the premium for track driving. Standard equipment is generous, but options like matrix headlights and active exhaust can significantly impact the final price.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 TFSI (400 hp) 7 S-tronic 4x4 | 2480 cc | 400 hp | 5 | 7 S-tronic |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y) photo gallery
12 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y)
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
2.5 TFSI (400 hp) 7 S-tronic 4x4 37 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 11.6 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 7.1 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 8.8 |
| Top speed, km/h | 250 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 3.8 |
| Emissions standard | Euro VI |
Engine
| Engine | 2.5 TFSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | EA855 Evo |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 2480 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Valves | 20 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Power, hp | 400 |
| RPM at max power | 5600–7000 |
| Torque, Nm | 500 |
| RPM at max torque | 2250–5600 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4389 |
| Width, mm | 1984 |
| Height, mm | 1436 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2631 |
| Front track, mm | 1592 |
| Rear track, mm | 1524 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1645 |
| Gross weight, kg | 2075 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 55 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1851 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 282 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 7 S-tronic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 2-speed automated manual |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission manufacturer | BorgWarner |
| Automatic transmission | + |
Audi RS 3 Sportback (8Y) questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What engine powers the 2021 RS 3 Sportback?
The car is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five TFSI engine producing 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.
How fast is the 2021 Audi RS 3 Sportback?
It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
What is the RS Torque Splitter?
It is an advanced rear differential system that uses two multi-plate clutches to actively distribute torque between the rear wheels, improving handling and enabling controlled drifts.
Is the RS 3 available with a manual transmission?
No, it is exclusively equipped with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Does the RS 3 Sportback have all-wheel drive?
Yes, Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard on all models.