Audi is marking 50 years of its legendary five‑cylinder performance heritage with one of the most exclusive models it has ever released: the Audi RS 3 competition limited edition. With just 750 units globally (and only 10 reserved for New Zealand) this ultra-rare model blends motorsport DNA, expressive design, and unmistakable auditory theatre into one compact monster. Split evenly between Sportback and Sedan, all New Zealand-bound units arrive pre-specified and heavily optioned, making them among the most distinctive and collectible Audi Sport vehicles ever sold in the country.
At the heart of this celebratory edition is the iconic 2.5‑litre five‑cylinder TFSI engine, an Audi signature that has become synonymous with rally dominance, Group B mythology, and the unmistakable 1‑2‑4‑5‑3 firing order that enthusiasts can identify with their eyes closed. In the RS 3 competition limited, the engine produces a muscular 294 kW and 500 Nm, catapulting the compact powerhouse from 0–100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and delivering a top speed of 290 km/h. A fully variable RS sports exhaust ensures the signature warbling growl is even more pronounced, with the flaps opening earlier in Dynamic, RS Performance, and RS Torque Rear modes for maximum aural drama.
But Audi Sport hasn’t stopped at power. The RS 3 competition limited arrives with a hardware package that pushes the RS 3 formula further than ever before. Most notable is the three‑way adjustable coilover suspension, marking the first time such a setup has been offered on an RS 3. Developed specifically for this edition, the suspension features stainless steel and aluminium construction, external reservoirs for improved cooling, and a wide range of adjustability across high‑speed compression, low‑speed compression, and rebound. Drivers can tailor their setup using the included manual and tools, making this RS 3 as suited to track days as it is to Sunday blasts on country roads.
Complementing the suspension is a stiffer rear stabiliser (now 85 N/mm) and uprated rear spring rates, providing increased stability, improved agility, and sharper turn‑in response. As with the previous RS 3, the model includes the torque splitter, capable of sending variable amounts of power between the rear wheels, enabling everything from enhanced corner exit traction to controlled oversteer in RS Torque Rear mode. Ceramic brakes with red calipers stand ready to deliver lightweight, fade‑resistant stopping power, ensuring this compact rocket can rein in its speed as impressively as it builds it.
Visually, the RS 3 competition limited means business, wearing a full suite of matte carbon elements. This includes new dual-position canards on the front corners, a split front lip, carbon mirror caps, side skirts, a carbon rear spoiler, and carbon surrounds for the diffuser. The carbon theme extends to the engine bay, with a technical matte carbon engine cover proudly crowning the five‑cylinder icon. Exclusive darkened matrix LED headlights provide not only a sinister look but also a delightful easter egg: when the car is locked or unlocked, the lighting animation flashes in the five‑cylinder’s 1‑2‑4‑5‑3 firing sequence.
New Zealand buyers will be able to choose between two exterior colours, Malachite Green, paying homage to historic Audi Sport quattro rally heritage, and Glacier White matte, a crisp and modern finish that contrasts aggressively with the carbon accents.
The exclusivity continues inside, where Audi has created one of the most distinctive RS cabins to date. A dramatic palette of black, Neodymium gold, and Ginger white creates a motorsport‑inspired yet luxurious environment. The RS bucket seats feature black leather bolsters with Neodymium gold Dinamica centres, complemented by Ginger white contrast stitching and diamond quilting. Even rear passengers receive matching Neodymium gold Dinamica upholstery with Ginger white stitching, reinforced by the visual impact of the front seats’ matte carbon backs.
Every limited edition model includes a matte serial number plate ahead of the gear selector, a subtle but powerful reminder of the model’s extreme rarity. Meanwhile, the 10.1‑inch touch display provides RS‑specific data, such as torque splitter behaviour, tire pressures, brake temperatures, and coolant temperatures, ensuring drivers feel fully connected to the car’s performance systems.
Greg Leet, General Manager of Audi New Zealand, summarises the model perfectly, describing it as a true celebration of Audi Sport heritage, a machine that honours five decades of five‑cylinder history while delivering an unmistakable, modern interpretation of Audi’s motorsport DNA.
Pricing and detailed specifications for the New Zealand market will be confirmed next quarter, but with only 10 examples coming to the country, buyers keen to secure one of the rarest and most exciting Audi Sport models ever offered here are urged to register their interest immediately.
This extraordinary RS 3 is a milestone, a tribute and a collector’s piece. And for 10 lucky New Zealanders, it will be a once‑in‑a‑lifetime chance to own a slice of Audi Sport history.
