Audi is exploring hybridizing the RS3 to keep its turbocharged five-cylinder engine available in Europe after the model was taken off sale ahead of the November Euro 7 emissions rules, Audi Sport boss Rolf Michl told Autocar.
Autocar reported that upgrading the EA855 five-cylinder to meet Euro 7 would be costly and would likely require a new particulate filter, NOx sensors, higher cell-density catalysts and reworked ignition mapping, and the engine is used only in the RS3 and the Cupra Formentor VZ5.
Audi recently unveiled a hybrid 2027 RS5 that pairs a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 with an electric motor, and Autocar says Audi plans to continue selling the five-cylinder in the U.S. and other regions with laxer emissions rules, though a hybrid RS3 in Europe would likely affect future availability.
This article is based on reporting from Car and Driver.
Read the full article at Car and Driver.
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