The updated Audi RS3 is an experience for the senses
Sporty New Design and Exterior Enhancements
The updated Audi RS3 has been revealed with a facelift, refreshed five-cylinder engine and a host of new tech. On sale from September, the RS3 will be available as a hatchback and saloon and prices start at £59,510, with the top of the range Vorsprung spec coming in at just under £70k.
Now boasting an even sportier appearance, noticeable changes to the front include a hexagonal singleframe grille with a rhombus pattern and two functional side air intakes and new splitter. The RS3 now sits aggressively lower in tribute to the Audi Sport Quattro S1 Pikes Peak car from 1987 and features redesigned headlights with a digital signature comprising 24 elements. Fresh lighting is also seen on the rear, as well as a large functional RS-specific diffuser and two oval tailpipes.
Matt black 19-inch aluminium cast wheels in a 5-Y spoke design come as standard, while the Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung models have a motorsport-inspired sign with 10 cross spokes. These models also contain carbon and high-gloss black detailing on the front air intakes, side skirt and blade above the diffuser
Powertrain and Performance
The five-cylinder 2.5 TFSI engine has been carried over from the previous generation of RS3, producing 394bhp, 500Nm of torque and all worked through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive system. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 155mph, which increases to 174mph on Vorsprung models. Straight line speed is one thing, though according to Audi, a new chassis setup and new tyres give the RS3 “even more appetite for corners”. Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tyres are optional on for those taking it on track.
The interior has a moody feel to it with dark colour tones throughout. A new steering wheel and sporty display join New Fine Nappa leather sports seats, while a standard contour and ambient lighting illuminate new design features, including a storage box, centre console with cup holders and doors. A 12.3-inch virtual cockpit displays speed and revs, while there is also an additional display for power output, g force, acceleration and lap times. The temperature range of coolant, torque splitter, brakes, engine oil and transmission oil are shown on the 10.1-inch touchscreen in the instrument panel. This also contains an app store which is independent of your smartphone features.
Audi RS3’s Legacy and Awards
The RS3 was originally launched in 2011 and proved hugely successful for the German powerhouse, with 80,000 units produced and various awards won, including Car of the Year 22 from Top Gear Italy, Best Performance Car 2022 from Motor1 in the USA and consecutive victories in the 2022 and 2023 sports auto readers’ choice award in Germany.
UK Pricing
RS3 Sportback - £59,510
RS 3 Sportback Carbon Black - £64,160
RS 3 Sportback Carbon Vorsprung - £68,650
RS 3 Saloon - £60,510
RS 3 Saloon Carbon Black - £65,160
RS 3 Saloon Carbon Vorsprung - £69,650
Read John Marcar’s review of the Audi RS 3 from 2022.
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Audi