The long-awaited update of the more performance-oriented A3 is now ready and comes with a record under its belt.
When Audi decided to update the Audi A3, we all missed something. The German compact introduced significant changes that were also carried over to its 2025 Audi RS3 sports version. Still, the most performance member of the range has had to bide its time, taking advantage of the time ideally as it arrives with a record in its category in the Green Hell, under the arm.
The brand with the four rings was clear: it wanted to intensify the experience behind the wheel of the RS3, and it seems that it has succeeded.
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General characteristics of the Audi RS 3 2025
Audi has made this car sportier than ever, both outside and inside. Although its image already conveyed a lot of aggressiveness, that sensation has been maximized thanks to a series of modifications to the front that affect both the bumper and the grille and redesigned headlights that transfer.
The lighting signature of the checkered flag to the top, with the possibility of choosing between three additional daytime running light designs for the first time. The rear also sees changes, with new elements inspired by competition, such as the large diffuser with its red reflector in the center. The vertical side reflectors are the latest, and the rear lights also have new graphics. As standard, the RS 3 is equipped with 19-inch wheels, and its color palette includes Ascari blue, Progressive red metallic tones, and matte Daytona gray.
From inside the doors, the changes are more discreet, although there is one that stands out above the rest: a new flattened steering wheel at the top and bottom, with touch surfaces and a red button on each side (the one on the left activates the Performance mode and the one on the right, the RS Individual mode).
In addition, Audi redesigned the lens area in front of the gear selector, the center console with a drink holder, and the door panels. New decorative moldings also appear, and the digital instrument panel features a rev counter that shows the engine speed in the center. Likewise, the RS 3 now has an online store with various applications. Optionally, you can opt for RS bucket seats.
Technical specifications of the Audi RS 3 2025
What has stayed the same is the famous 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine, with its 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of maximum torque. This engine allows. This engine enables the compact sports car to reach 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and a 290 km/h top speed.
However, the German brand has worked on the exhaust system (it has optimized the control of the butterflies between 2,200 and 3,500 rpm) so that the engine generates “a consistent and fuller sound”, regardless of the driving mode selected.
As an option, semi-slick Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires are offered.
What has changed is the driving dynamics; hence, the updated RS 3 boasts of being no less than seven seconds faster than its predecessor at the Nürburgring, setting a time of 7:33.123 minutes. The key lies in a revised adaptive suspension. The same goes for the wheel-selective torque control (braking torque vectoring), conveniently optimized to work in line with the torque splitter to allow the compact sports car to accelerate sooner and position itself better in the curves:
The new RS 3 turns better at the entrance to the curves thanks to a set-up that allows the vehicle to be positioned earlier and better for the exit of the curves. The result is that less steering input is needed from the apex to the corner exit, resulting in less friction and earlier acceleration. This allows you to start with more momentum and speed on each subsequent straight,” says Frank Stippler, racing and development driver at Audi Sport.
Audi RS3 2025: The compact sports car that dominates the asphalt
Since its debut, the Audi RS3 has been a benchmark in the sports compact segment. For 2025, this model is renewed and reaffirms its position as one of the fastest and most exciting in its category. With an even more aggressive design, cutting-edge technology, and performance that continues to push the limits, the new RS3 is a machine designed to dominate the asphalt.
A design that commands respect
The 2025 Audi RS3’s imposing presence is the first thing that catches your attention. Audi has refined its aesthetics to make it even more impressive. The Single-frame grille, characteristic of the RS models, is more aggressive and framed by Matrix LED headlights, offering superior visibility and a futuristic touch.
The more comprehensive air intake and muscular lines underline the vehicle’s sporty character, while the rear diffuser, combined with the dual exhaust system, makes it clear that this car is made for speed.
Unbeatable performance in its class
Under the hood, the 2025 Audi RS3 maintains its iconic 2.5 TFSI five-cylinder engine, which delivers the same 400 horsepower. This engine, known for its unmistakable sound and responsiveness, propels the RS3 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, a figure few in its category can match.
But the RS3 isn’t just raw power; its all-wheel-drive Quattro all-wheel-drive system and adaptive suspension allow it to handle corners with surgical precision, making each trip an exhilarating experience.
In addition, the Audi RS3 continues to hold the record on the Nürburgring circuit for its segment, with a time that challenges the competition and underlines its dominance on the asphalt. This achievement is a testament to its speed, stability, and ability to handle the most demanding conditions.
Technology and comfort in perfect harmony
The interior of the 2025 RS3 is not only performance-oriented but also offers an ambiance of luxury and technology. The MMI Touch infotainment system has been updated to provide a smoother and more intuitive experience.
The 10.1-inch touchscreen and the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit clearly and accessibly offer all the information the driver needs. Connectivity is total, with compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a series of assistance functions that make each trip a safe and comfortable experience.
Furthermore, Audi spared no detail to ensure the RS3 was a high-performance and practical everyday vehicle. The Nappa leather sports seats, with contrast stitching, offer superior comfort, while the SONOS sound system ensures that every note of your favorite music is heard with the same precision with which this car corners.
The 2025 Audi RS3 appeals to all your senses, including your sense of smell.
One of the most potent sports compacts on the market becomes even more capable. Audi RS3Audi, one of the market’s most powerful compact sports cars, got even better. The luxury automaker updated the model for 2025, giving it new features and some performance improvements. The most surprising thing is that Audi focused on a sensory experience with some aspects of the car, including improving the smell of the vehicle.
The design is more aggressive for the sense of sight. The 2025 RS3 has a more aggressive-looking grille flanked by more oversized air intakes and updated LED headlights with Audi’s signature dynamic DRLs. For those who sweat the little things, the lights play welcome and exit sequences when approaching or exiting the car, and they have customizable designs. There are also new wheels wrapped in updated tires that Audi claims have more grip.
At the rear, the 2025 RS3 gets new, narrower taillights and a revised diffuser that splits with a vertical reflector. Thankfully, the vast oval exhausts you can stick your fist into remain. The RS3 also continues its trend of offering excellent paint jobs, with the color palette expanding to include Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and a matte Daytona Gray.
For your hearing, Audi’sAudi’s excellent 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5 is still standing, making 401 horsepower. If you’ve never heard of this engine, its unique cylinder configuration helps give it one of the best exhaust soundtracks.
Audi has modified the software and algorithms for performance features, such as the adaptive damping suspension and rear differential, which makes the RS3 more stable during high-performance driving and gives the driver more control. Audi engineers have also made drifting with the RS3 easier than ever, which is good as long as you know what you’re doing.
The most incredible sensory experience is lived inside. We all love the smell of a new car, although it can be dangerous. Audi has taken the time to get the chemical composition of the updated RS3’s interior smell just right. Using premium materials such as genuine leather, Audi claims that the interior components are chemically analyzed and then placed in a heated chamber. The air they emit is also analyzed.
The result is an interior tuned to smell attractive in various temperatures and environments. Also new for the 2025 RS3 is a flat-bottomed steering wheel with red RS mode buttons, a redesigned shift lever in place of the strange toggle switch, a new tachometer display for the digital instrument cluster, and access to the app store. Audi for the central infotainment screen.
The most significant novelty inside is the new optional bucket seats. Following a trend set by other high-performance models, these seats have a leather and microsuede cover on the fronts and exposed carbon fiber on the backrests. They look fantastic.
Please note that you see the European version of the RS3; Audi has yet to release pricing and information for the U.S. version of the performance sedan. We won’t be getting the Sportback version of the RS3 just yet, which is a shame because it looks great. When the 2025 RS3 goes on sale, we expect it to cost more than the current car’s starting price of $62,300.
Conclusion: A legend that evolves
The 2025 Audi RS3 is much more than a simple successor to its predecessors; It is an evolution that sets new standards in the sports compact segment. With a design that attracts attention, a performance that impresses, and a level of technology that satisfies the most demands, the RS3 remains the car to beat. Whether on the track or the road, this vehicle promises to offer an unrivaled driving experience, reaffirming its status as a true legend on wheels.