Audi has unveiled the mid-life update for the 2025 RS3, promising upgrades and enhancements that aim to provide a superior driving experience for enthusiasts. The current-generation RS3 has been widely acclaimed as the best iteration of the model yet, combining sophisticated dynamics with the characterful five-cylinder power plant that has become a hallmark of Audi’s performance offerings. Building on this success, Audi has introduced a facelift for the RS3, focusing on design, dynamics, and interior technology to elevate the driving experience to new heights.
Enhanced Exterior Design
One of the most noticeable changes to the 2025 RS3 is the updated exterior design, which aims to give the hyperhatch and its saloon counterpart a more aggressive and dynamic look. The front bumper and grille combination has been redesigned, with a new intricate honeycomb grille that extends further outwards to create a sense of greater width. Wider-set side intake surrounds and three motorsport-inspired inlets below the central grille add to the overall aggressive styling of the RS3. Additionally, new chequer-themed daytime running lights contribute to the car’s sporty demeanor, with customizable lighting themes available from within the cabin.
At the rear, the focus is on emphasizing width, with a more aggressive carbon fiber diffuser integrating a vertical reflector and trademark RS3 dual oval exhaust tips into its design. The rear light units have also been updated, with darkened units standard on Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung editions. UK models come equipped with 19-inch wheels as standard, with a new 10-spoke wheel design available in two diamond-cut finishes for Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung variants. Gloss black and carbon fiber trim elements add a touch of sophistication to the exterior design, complementing the overall aesthetics of the RS3.
Powerful Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 RS3 retains its charismatic 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, delivering the same 395 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque as its predecessor. Power is sent to all four wheels, allowing for a 0-62 mph sprint in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (174 mph on Carbon Vorsprung models). Audi has made improvements to the exhaust system to enhance sound consistency and depth, optimizing the valve system between 2200 and 3500 rpm for a more exhilarating driving experience.
Performance gains in the 2025 RS3 come from chassis tweaks, taking advantage of the car’s new standard-fit Pirelli P Zero R tires (265-section front, 245-section rear). The rear RS Torque Splitter allows for torque vectoring when needed, with Audi recalibrating the software to further enhance its capabilities. Updates to the ESC and adaptive dampers aim to improve overall handling and agility, ensuring that the RS3 delivers a thrilling driving experience on both road and track.
Luxurious Interior
Inside the cabin, the 2025 RS3 boasts a range of upgrades designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and overall luxury. The new-style steering wheel features a flatter, more simplistic design, while RS sports seats with improved bolstering provide added support during spirited driving. A 12.3-inch digital dash with updated graphics and RS-specific shift lights, a 10.1-inch central infotainment display, and improved ambient lighting elevate the interior ambiance of the RS3. Trick backlit door cards and sophisticated illumination of key areas further enhance the overall premium feel of the cabin.
In a surprising move, Audi has also focused on interior smell during the development of the 2025 RS3, ensuring that materials emit a pleasant odor when up to temperature. Over 200 individual parts were chemically analyzed to ensure that the interior of the RS3 exudes a fragrance that customers will appreciate, adding a unique sensory experience to the driving environment.
Enhanced Driving Experience
Audi has introduced new dedicated Performance mode and RS Individual buttons on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to access desired modes with a single button press. The range-topping Carbon Vorsprung model offers adaptive suspension as standard, along with the Technology Pack Pro, which includes a panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable front seats, and additional driving assistance features. These enhancements aim to provide drivers with a more customizable and engaging driving experience, catering to a wide range of preferences and driving styles.
The 2025 Audi RS3 is priced from £59,510 for the Sportback and £60,510 for the saloon, with prices increasing for the Carbon Vorsprung range-toppers. Order books are set to open in September, giving enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the upgrades and enhancements firsthand. With its combination of striking design, powerful performance, and luxurious interior features, the 2025 RS3 promises to deliver a superior driving experience that will satisfy even the most discerning of drivers.