The 2017 Audi RS3 Launch Edition: A Collector's Dream

If you’re searching for one of the rarest modern Audi performance sedans ever sold in the U.S., look no further than the 2017 Audi RS 3 Launch Edition. This highly exclusive model marks the very first year the Audi RS3 sedan landed stateside, and it almost didn’t happen.

Originally scheduled for release in the 2017 model year, the U.S. arrival of the RS3 sedan was delayed due to stringent emissions regulations. As a result, only 165 units of the 2017 Audi RS3 were officially produced for the U.S. market, instantly making it one of the rarest Audi RS “collector edition” models ever released in North America.

This limited-production Audi RS3 wasn’t just rare in volume, it was also exclusive in its factory specifications. Every vehicle came pre-configured from Audi, with no custom orders allowed. The only variation among them was the inclusion of either the Dynamic Package or the Dynamic Plus Package.

Isaacfsea’s 2017 Audi RS 3

Factory-Spec Only – No Custom Builds

This limited-production RS3 wasn’t just rare in volume, it was also exclusive in its configuration. Each car was pre-configured from the factory with no ability for dealerships or buyers to make changes. The only available variation was whether the car came with the Dynamic Package or the upgraded Dynamic Plus Package:

Dynamic Package: Sport exhaust, magnetic ride suspension
Dynamic Plus Package: Added carbon ceramic front brakes, fixed RS suspension, and a raised top speed limiter (174 mph vs. 155 mph)

All 2017 Launch Editions included: Black leather interior with Rock Gray contrast stitching, a flat-bottom RS steering wheel, Aluminum race inlays, Tech Package (MMI Navigation plus, Virtual Cockpit), and 19″ wheels with summer performance tires

Official U.S. Production Numbers by Color

According to verified data from Audi USA shared via the Audizine enthusiast forums, here’s the full color breakdown:

Ara Blue Crystal Effect – 33
Catalunya Red Metallic – 18
Daytona Grey Pearl Effect – 31
Glacier White Metallic – 17
Mythos Black Metallic – 33
Nardo Gray – 33

euroedout’s 2017 Audi RS 3

Missed Launch, Legendary Status

Audi initially planned a 250-unit production run, aiming to send one RS3 Launch Edition to each U.S. dealership, but lengthy port delays and EPA certification issues cut that number short. By the time the cars arrived, 2018 models were already in showrooms.

Though only 165 units were officially delivered, each came with a “1 of 250” plaque and an exclusive accessory kit, featuring a poster, license plate frame, keychain, and other items, all marked with the 1 of 250 designation.

Regardless, these first-edition RS3s are revered among enthusiasts and collectors alike. With a powerful 2.5L inline-5 engine making 400 horsepower, standard quattro all-wheel drive, and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, this sedan delivers supercar thrills in a daily-drivable package.

Only 165 made. The rarest RS3 ever built

Photo Credits: Renndvous

Factory-Spec Only – No Custom Builds

Official U.S. Production Numbers by Color

Missed Launch, Legendary Status

Known Launch Editions