The facelifted Audi RS3 brings extensive upgrades inside and out, just don’t go expecting extra straight-line speed from the pint-sized performance car.
Audi Australia is yet to confirm when we can expect the updated RS3 in local showrooms, along with the recently-facelifted A3 and S3.
No changes have been made to the RS3’s familiar 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, which continues to produce 294kW and 500Nm for a 0-100km/h sprint of 3.8 seconds.
However, stickier tyres have been fitted to the updated RS3 as standard to improve its performance credentials and provide greater comfort, while Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks remain available as an option.
Incremental performance gains have also been made via handling upgrades.
Brake torque vectoring and chassis tuning tweaks offer faster cornering, demonstrated by the RS3 setting a new class record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with a lap time of 7 minutes and 33.123 seconds.
It eclipsed the BMW M2 by five seconds and the Mercedes-AMG A45 S by more than 10 seconds.
Offered as both a sedan and hatchback, Audi has also given the RS3 a sharper look with a new frontal design. It includes a hexagonal single grille, dual functional side intakes, redesigned daylight running lights (DRLs), and refreshed headlights.
The updated headlights display a checkered flag light signature, and offer three individual DRL designs selectable in the infotainment menus.
At the rear of the updated RS3, the taillights feature a new graphic, vertical side reflectors, black-framed oval exhaust tips, and an RS-specific diffuser.
Three new colours are available with the 2025 model – Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and Daytona Grey in a matte finish.
Carried over from the RS3 Performance Edition are optional, motorsport-inspired ten-spoke alloy wheels.
Inside the RS3, the first obvious change is the introduction of a newly shaped steering wheel with a flat top and bottom. As standard, the wheel is trimmed in perforated leather, although a suede finish is available as an option.
Two seat designs will be offered – standard Nappa leather sport seats, and optional RS bucket seats.
Unchanged from the pre-update car is Audi’s 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, with Sport, Performance, and Runway views. Performance mode can be accessed via a new checkered flag button on the steering wheel, and RS Individual mode is tied to a red RS button.
The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system now features an in-built app store.
Facelifted models will be available to order in Europe from the end of August.
Australian timing and pricing is yet to be locked in.
The Audi RS3 currently in local showrooms starts from $95,715 before on-road costs as a hatchback and $98,215 before on-roads for the sedan.
MORE: Everything Audi RS3
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