After breaking records as the fastest compact car around the Nürburgring, the refreshed Audi RS3 is set to hit the streets. Although it’s a mid-cycle facelift rather than a full redesign, the five-cylinder RS3 remains a potent contender in the compact performance segment with its fresh look and enhanced features.
Design Updates Inspired by Racing Legends
Audi’s exterior revisions give the RS3 a bolder presence. Up front, a redesigned single-frame grille showcases a diamond pattern that continues across the updated air intakes. The aggressive stance is enhanced by three new openings above the front splitter, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1987 Quattro S1 Pikes Peak.
The car’s rear has also been refreshed with new taillight graphics and an updated bumper featuring side vertical reflectors and a central reflector embedded within the diffuser. To complement the look, Audi introduces two new colours—metallic Ascari Blue and Progressive Red—while offering the RS3 in Daytona Gray with a matte finish for the first time. The 19-inch standard wheels come in matte black, with optional two-tone alloys available for those seeking a more adventurous style.
Sportier Interior with High-Performance Options
Inside, the changes are even more striking. The RS3 now offers optional carbon bucket seats, combining luxurious Nappa leather bolsters with microfibre centres and a matte carbon back. For less track-oriented buyers, the traditional Nappa leather sports seats remain available.
The steering wheel now features flat top and bottom sections, a red 12 o’clock mark, and new quick-select buttons for frequently used driving modes. Audi has also refined the shifter design, adding red accents to the air vents—though opinions on these additions may be mixed.
Performance: Still Mighty, With Enhancements on the Horizon
The RS3 retains its celebrated 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, delivering 395hp in its European form. Although there’s no power bump in this update, Audi Sport boss Sebastian Grams hinted at potential increases before this generation concludes, signalling the final chapter of the beloved inline-five engine.
While power remains the same, Audi has made notable improvements under the hood. A revised algorithm for the adaptive dampers ensures quicker responses and improved handling. Additionally, brake torque vectoring has been refined, allowing for higher cornering speeds and even enabling drift capabilities for a more playful driving experience. Audi also offers new bespoke tires, with the option to upgrade to Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks for those seeking maximum performance.
Pricing and Availability
In Germany, the new RS3 Sportback will be available for order starting at €66,000 (RM320,456), positioning it as a premium option above the base Golf R. The RS3 Sedan will be priced slightly higher, starting at €68,000 (RM330,150).
As the RS3’s facelifted version rolls out, it promises to continue delivering the exhilarating performance that fans have come to expect, now with sharper looks and improved dynamics. With the order books opening soon, Audi enthusiasts have plenty to be excited about.
