2025 Audi RS3 facelift launched – sedan/Sportback; 400 PS 2.5T five-cylinder; Nürburgring lap time 7:33.123 min
After disclosure Audi A3 facelift In March this year, the German automaker revealed the full-fledged RS version of its compact model. Still available as a sedan and Sportback (hatchback), and with a five-cylinder engine, the latest RS3 is considered the fastest in its class, with a record time of 7:33.123 minutes around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.
In terms of visual changes, there’s a new hexagonal Singleframe grille with diamond-pattern inserts. This design is replicated for the two functional side air intakes, which are accentuated by vertical black fins and three small holes above the full-width front splitter.
The headlights have also been enhanced with a 24-element chequered flag signature for the daytime running lights. With the optional matrix LEDs, drivers can also choose between three additional DRL designs in the MMI touchscreen for the first time.
At the rear, the previous mesh insert has been removed and the RS-specific diffuser is now more prominent and still accompanied by two oval exhaust tips, which look even larger in their black frames. Like the headlights, the taillights also get new graphics and animations.
Inside, you’ll find the same general layout as beforebut there are some new additions like a racing-inspired steering wheel (flat top and bottom) and optional RS bucket seats with carbon backs. New lighting features, finishes and trims are also part of the update, some of which are extra-cost.
Inherited from the previous model are the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 10.1-inch central touchscreen, both powered by improved software that brings new displays and functions, with the touchscreen adding an app store.
Mechanically, the RS3 remains one of the few high-performance cars to be powered by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The TFSI engine delivers the same 400 PS (394 hp or 294 kW) and 500 Nm of torque, and is paired to a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, allowing for a 0-100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h.
Despite the lack of extra power, Audi engineers have tweaked other aspects of the powertrain to achieve the record time on The Green Hell. These include improved braking torque to allow for higher cornering speeds, as well as a new algorithm to make the adaptive dampers more responsive. Audi also claims the updated RS3 has a more comfortable rear end than before, and new custom tyres come as standard, with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks available as an option.
PHOTO GALLERY: Audi RS3 Sedan 2025 facelift
PHOTO GALLERY: Audi RS3 Sportback 2025 facelift
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