KW developed adaptive DDC plug&play coilover for new 2022 Audi RS3

Many cars have electronically adjustable suspension control systems straight from the factory. For the independent aftermarket and various tuners, KW automotive has successfully introduced its KW DDC plug & play coilovers for over 150 vehicle models. These electronic suspension systems, which are compatible with the vehicle electronics of various car brands, are now available for the current Audi RS3 (GY) with adaptive DCC damper control. Via the RS3 serial buttons, the different driving modes adjust the damper characteristics of the coilover suspension to be stiffer or more comfort oriented. Within the margin of the parts certificate, the installation of the KW DDC plug & play in the new RS3 allows a stepless lowering of up to 45 millimeters. Upgrade to the KW V3 coilover suspension, which is manually adjustable in compression and rebound independently, is recommended for RS3 models without optional DCC standard sports suspension. For RS3 drivers who are only interested in subtle lowering, the suspension manufacturer has developed KW coil springs that are adjustable in height. These height-adjustable springs enable a lowering of the ride height of 20 millimeters. More at www.kwsuspensions.net

The adaptive KW DDC plug & play coilover suspensions are already available for current Audi models such as the Audi Q3 (F3), Audi RSQ3 (F3), and Audi S3 (GY). Currently they are available for the 2022 Audi RS3 sedan and the 2022 Audi RS3 Sportback. “In the previous models, the car manufacturer used a different suspension control system. Though recently Audi switched to the so-called DCC suspension technology on selected vehicles, which is compatible with our DDC suspensions”, explains Florian Johann from KW Brand Management. When converting to a KW DDC plug&play coilover suspension in the Audi RS3 (GY), the original Audi DCC suspension plugs will connect to the compatible plugs of the KW DDC dampers. The standard on-board electronics then recognize the adaptive coilover suspension right away.

Sport program or driving comfort – a damping mode for every mood

If the various modes are selected, the KW suspension adapts accordingly. By integrating them into the onboard electronics, the DDC dampers constantly react in their damping characteristics to the respective driving situation, taking acceleration and braking processes and steering into account. The three characteristic curves comfortable, balanced, and sporty help to provide a clearly perceptible spread of the KW DDC shock absorber characteristics. “Depending on the particular setting, the Audi RS3 drives sportively harmonious or comfortable even with a maximum drop of 40 millimeters at the front axle and 45 millimeters at the rear axle – even with a maximum payload”, Florian Johann further describes. The 400-hp RS3 with its charismatic five-cylinder turbo growl remains even more controllable during sporty driving thanks to the coilover suspension. The typical pitching and rolling movements of the body structure are significantly reduced.

“If the four-door Audi RS3 sedan or five-door Audi RS3 Sportback does not have adaptive shock absorbers, our best-selling KW V3 suspension, is recommended for retrofitting. This stainless steel KW coilover suspension has the option to adjust the dampers in compression and rebound forces individually. Much like our Audi Sport Performance Suspension Parts do for the Audi TT RS.”, says Florian Johann. Similar to the DDC plug & play, the manual adjustable coilover suspension allows stepless lowering from 20 to 40 millimeters at the front axle and 25 to 45 millimeters at the rear axle. As an alternative KW also developed height-adjustable coil springs for the Audi RS3. In conjunction with the standard suspension, the height-adjustable spring kit allows stepless lowering up to 20 millimeters.