Yahoo Autos The 2025 Audi RS3 Packs an Updated Chassis and Better Looks
Following the debut of the reworked A3 in March and the new S3 in April, Audi is finally ready to show off its latest version of its now-iconic five-cylinder sport sedan. The 2025 Audi RS3 returns with the brand’s most iconic powertrain layout, but also brings a prettier front fascia, cooler lights, a higher performance tire, and revised chassis tuning.
The heart of the Audi RS3 remains unchanged for the mid-cycle refresh. The familiar turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder still sits under the hood; Audi doesn't list a power output for the new model, leading us to believe it still makes the preceding version's 401 hp and 369 lb-ft in U.S. market spec. That engine is mated exclusively to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, controlled by wheel-mounted paddles. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system, which has been recalibrated alongside the stability control, adaptive dampers, and brake-based torque vectoring systems.
Audi says that these adjustments will allow customers to carry even more speed through the twisties than before. A new C-rated tire comes as standard, but those who want the most out of their sports sedan can opt for a set of Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks. Carbon ceramic brakes are also an option, which you’ll probably want if you’re gonna try and chase the RS3’s 7:33.123 Nurbirgring Nordschleife lap time. Audi also claims the new adjustments make the RS3 a much more tail-happy partner than previous iterations, although you probably won't want to explore that while running that 'Ring lap.
The new RS3 also benefits from some styling adjustments, particularly in the front. The car receives new LED headlights with a selectable running light pattern, which work with a new grille to transform the car’s appearance. Openings around the front diffuser aim to enhance the wide-shouldered look, drawing inspiration from the brand’s motorsports endeavors. A set of 19-inch five-spoke wheels comes as standard. Customers will be able to choose from five exterior colors: Kyalami Green, Kemora Gray, Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and a matte Daytona Gray hue. (Audi says the car is inspired by the looks of the 1987 Quattro S1 Pikes Peak racer, but we’ll have to take their word on that.)
The interior of the 2025 RS3 also receives a few updates, including the addition of carbon-backed buckets like you’ll find in the BMW M lineup. The steering wheel has also been revised, with a much more squared off appearance than before. A red stripe at the 12 o’clock position ensures you always know where the wheel is pointing. The same 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 10.1-inch infotainment screen from last year’s models remain at the center of the experience.
Audi hasn’t shared the full spec sheet for the U.S-market RS3, so we don’t have pricing information on the sports sedan quite yet. That said, we shouldn’t have to wait too much longer before we know everything about this M2 rival.
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