2016 Audi RS3 Sportback Quattro Permanent AWD

 Audi RS3 Sportback

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system transfers the power of the 2.5 TFSI to the road with supreme ease. Its central component is the electronically controlled, hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch. The newly developed part is mounted at the rear axle for reasons of axle load distribution. The multi-plate clutch uses software custom tailored for the Audi RS3 Sportback. It distributes the available torque as needed to the front and rear axles in the blink of an eye. Depending on the driving style and coefficient of friction, between 50 and 100 percent of the available torque can be sent to the rear axle.

The electric pump, which develops the necessary oil pressure of max. 38 bar, is highly efficient. It is activated immediately the instant road grip drops or the driver adopts a sportier style. The weight of the clutch was reduced by 1.4 kilograms (3.1 lb) versus the previous version by eliminating the pressure accumulator. Another example of targeted lightweight construction.

Control of the multi-plate clutch is integrated into the Audi drive select system. With its very sport configuration, it uses all handling-relevant information, such as the steering angle. In dynamic mode and when the ESC Electronic Stabilization Control system is set to sport mode, power is transferred sooner and in greater amounts to the rear axle for even better handling, giving the new Audi RS3 Sportback very agile and direct turn-in. This enables the driver to even perform controlled drifts on low-friction road surfaces. The front axle pulls the car back onto a straight line when exiting a bend.

Torque vectoring makes the handling of the Audi RS3 Sportback even more perfect. During fast cornering, it slightly brakes the interior wheels, which are under a reduced load. This enables both wheels on the axle to transfer more power to the road. Thanks to the difference in propulsive forces, the car turns slightly into the corner and supports the driver's sporty driving style.