The first RS3 has been quattro GmbH's most successful RS model. The initial run was expected to be limited to just 2,500 units. That was increased as orders kept on coming in. The UK's allocation was increased by a second tranche of 500 units bring the total production run to about 5,000 cars. The 8P chassis RS3 is now out of production, but even so considerable demand for new RS3s persists, which explains why second-hand values are proving to be so robust.
Some of the demand will be taken-up by the new Q3 Rs, (which is still in short supply despite being announced months ago) and the new S3, which is an impressive car. Neither model is quite on a par with Mercedes-Benz new AMG A45, which has received a rapturous welcome in Europe. In short, the need for Audi to produce an MQB RS3 is pressing.
With the latest RS6 and RS7 models safely launched, this has freed-up time for quattro GmbH to focus on the next RS3 (MQB). Not that they have been idle in this respect; my understanding is that work began on MQB RS3 even before the new A3 was launched, when early indications were that Audi had a winner on its hands with the current 8P RS3.
Contrary to the previous thread on this topic, Audi is absolutely expected to mount the 2.5 litre engine in the next version. Nothing has been officially announced, but everyone seems to expect a lightened 2.5 5-cylinder unit with 380-400 bhp and 40 mpg and less than 200 g of CO2 emissions.
A friend who lives in Germany reports that disguised A3 mules have been seen around Neckarsulm and it is only a matter of time before we see one pounding around the Nurburgring. Expect pictures in September. I wonder if it will crack a sub-8 minutes time?
Segnalibri