Audi RS3 Competition Limited: The Final Farewell to the Legendary 5-Cylinder

The Audi RS3 Competition Limited marks 50 years of Audi's 5-cylinder engine with an ultra-exclusive run of 750 units worldwide. This special edition retains the legendary 400hp 2.5 TFSI while adopting a radical style with carbon fiber and gold wheels. Deliveries begin mid-2026.

"Only 750 units worldwide, with 13 for France. This series celebrates half a century of innovation with our legendary 5-cylinder." — Audi France

A Tribute to Audi's Sonic DNA

The 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder engine in the Audi RS3 is now an endangered species. Born in 1976 in the Audi 100, this atypical block has marked generations of enthusiasts of the four-ring brand. Its unique sound, somewhere between a 4-cylinder and a V6, makes every acceleration a special moment.

This Competition Limited pushes exclusivity to the extreme. With its 750 units produced globally, of which only 13 units are for France, it clearly targets collectors. The French price has not been announced, but Dutch sources mention over 150,000 euros.

What are the Differences from the Standard RS3?

Visually, the Competition Limited is distinguished by a more imposing Singleframe grille and a split front blade. Carbon fiber elements proliferate: hood, mirrors, rear spoiler, and diffuser. The 19-inch gold wheels immediately identify this special series.

On the chassis side, Audi has installed a new, stiffer tubular rear stabilizer bar (85 N/mm) and stiffened springs. The retuned RS sport exhaust with revised valves further liberates the 5-cylinder's sound, while reduced sound insulation at the firewall amplifies the aural experience.

Unchanged but Assertive Performance

No horsepower race for this Competition Limited. The 2.5 TFSI retains its 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, sent to all four wheels via the quattro all-wheel drive. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint remains at 3.8 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 290 km/h.

This approach contrasts with the competition. The BMW M2 boasts 460 horsepower with its 6-cylinder, while the Mercedes-AMG A45 S develops 421 horsepower with its 4-cylinder. But neither offers this particular 5-cylinder sound.

The Premium Interior for Special Occasions

The cabin of this Competition Limited mixes sportiness and refinement. The RS bucket seats receive specific upholstery, while the dashboard features inserts in genuine carbon fiber. The flat-bottomed sport steering wheel and paddle shifters complete the racing ambiance.

Standard equipment includes the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, 3-zone automatic climate control, and the Bang & Olufsen audio system. The LED ambient lighting and Fine Nappa leather upholstery partly justify the premium pricing.

What Future for the 5-Cylinder?

This special series arrives in a particular context. The Euro 7 standards, expected in Europe from 2027, could sound the death knell for Audi's 5-cylinder. Manufacturers now favor electrification to meet emission thresholds.

Audi has not officially confirmed the end of this engine, but all signs point in that direction. The Competition Limited could well be the ultimate tribute before the complete electric transition of compact models.

Starting from What Price?

Audi France has not yet announced the official price of this Competition Limited. Information from specialized Dutch media mentions an amount exceeding 150,000 euros.