Is the Audi RS3 Engine the Most Exciting Five-Cylinder on the Road?

Fordtransmission28 Oct, 2025News

The Audi RS3 packs a rare 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine that has become legendary among enthusiasts. Producing around 394 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, it rockets from 0–60 mph in just over 3.5 seconds while delivering a signature, aggressive exhaust note that few engines can match. Its compact turbo setup, precise fuel injection, and Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensure explosive performance and razor-sharp handling. Yet, some drivers debate whether this engine’s character can survive the push toward electrification, or if it represents the last pure roar of a modern five-cylinder powerhouse.