Audi RS3 Gets “GT” Treatment Before Inline-Five Engine Retires
Audi has reaffirmed its commitment to combustion engines beyond 2032, but the iconic inline-five engine is nearing its end. The RS3 is the last model to feature this engine, and before it retires, Audi is giving it a “GT” treatment.
New footage from CarSpyMedia shows a prototype RS3 with a track-focused aerodynamic body kit, including front canards and a more pronounced front spoiler lip. The prototype also appears to have a stiffer suspension setup and larger brakes.
The biggest question is whether Audi will make any changes to the engine. Currently, the RS3’s five-cylinder engine produces 394 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Former Audi Sport CEO Sebastian Grams hinted that more power is possible, but Audi CEO Gernot Döllner confirmed that the engine will likely end with Euro 7 emissions standards in 2027.
What’s Next for the RS3?
Although the inline-five engine is nearing its end, Audi is expected to launch new RS models next year, and the RS3 GT could be among them. We might also see the RS3 Sedan receive the GT treatment, and rumors suggest that an ultimate Golf R could adopt the EA855 engine.
