Since 2021, the Audi RS 3 has been powered by a further-developed version of the 2.5 TFSI engine, delivering stronger acceleration and greater flexibility than ever before. Thanks to this enhanced powertrain, the compact high-performance model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, while an optional increase to 280 km/h is available. With the RS Dynamic Package and carbon-ceramic brakes, the maximum speed rises to 290 km/h. A key contributor to these impressive figures is the increased torque output of 500 Nm, available across a broad range from 2,250 to 5,600 rpm.
During the development of the current generation of the five-cylinder engine, which debuted in 2016, Audi placed particular emphasis on high performance and lightweight construction. Internally designated EA855 evo Sport, the engine delivers 400 hp (294 kW) and 500 Nm of torque in the Audi RS 3. The result is a highly compact and efficient power unit that combines exceptional performance with everyday usability.
The designation TFSI stands for turbocharging and direct fuel injection. The 2.5 TFSI employs a dual-injection system, combining both port fuel injection and direct injection into the combustion chambers. It also incorporates the Audi Valvelift System (AVS) for variable control of the exhaust valves. This sophisticated technology enables more precise regulation of the air-fuel mixture, resulting in optimized power delivery while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption. Fuel is injected at pressures of up to 250 bar, while the large exhaust-gas turbocharger generates a maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar gauge pressure (2.5 bar absolute).
The cylinder head, bearings, pistons, and crankshaft are designed to withstand extremely high loads. Extensive use of lightweight materials contributes to the engine’s responsiveness and willingness to rev. In total, the five-cylinder engine weighs approximately 160 kilograms and, at less than 50 centimetres in length, is exceptionally compact. Its long-stroke design, featuring a bore of 82.5 mm and a stroke of 92.8 mm, makes it ideally suited for transverse installation.
The crankcase of the 2.5 TFSI is manufactured from aluminum, dramatically reducing weight compared with the cast-iron blocks used in earlier generations. The crankshaft is hollow-drilled, further contributing to the engine’s low mass. Compared with a solid crankshaft, less rotating mass must be accelerated, resulting in improved engine responsiveness. Additional lightweight measures include a magnesium upper oil pan and aluminum pulleys, further reducing overall weight.
Numerous engineering measures were implemented to minimize internal friction, reduce wear, and lower fuel consumption, thereby improving overall efficiency. These include plasma-coated cylinder liners and specially designed oil channels integrated into the undersides of the aluminum pistons to enhance cooling.
An innovative thermal management system featuring a switchable coolant pump also contributes to efficiency and fuel savings. During the brief warm-up phase after a cold start, the switchable water pump does not circulate coolant through the cylinder head, allowing the 2.5 TFSI to reach its optimal operating temperature more quickly. Efficiency is further improved by an on-demand controlled aluminum oil pump working in conjunction with the Audi Valvelift System.
The oil pump continuously adjusts oil pressure according to the engine’s requirements, while the Audi Valvelift System varies exhaust-valve lift and opening duration in two stages depending on load and engine speed. This strategy provides low fuel consumption under light and partial loads while ensuring immediate throttle response and strong pulling power under full load.
In the RS 3 Performance Edition on display, Audi further enhanced the award-winning turbocharged five-cylinder engine to produce 299 kW (407 hp). Peak power is delivered 100 rpm later than in the standard version, remaining available across a broad plateau from 5,700 to 7,000 rpm. The torque plateau is also expanded, with the maximum 500 Nm now sustained for an additional 100 rpm, from 2,250 to 5,700 rpm. This performance increase is achieved through a higher boost pressure setting, with the large turbocharger generating 1.6 bar gauge pressure, an increase of 0.1 bar over the standard version.