Audi has unveiled the new 2025 RS 3 in both sedan and Sportback versions, two months after breaking the lap record for non-front-wheel drive cars at Nürburgring. This latest iteration is a refresh of the third-generation RS 3 launched in 2017, with targeted changes that maintain the car’s character. The turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine delivers 394 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, which is the same as the base European trim. The main focus of the changes is to demonstrate to potential buyers that the engineers made the right adjustments.
One noticeable update is the flatter hexagonal singleframe grille, featuring a diamond-patterned mesh instead of the previous hexagon pattern. The grille surround now incorporates three slots at the bottom, reminiscent of the Audi Quattro racers that established the Quattro brand. Larger lower intakes with diamond mesh and reshaped headlights with larger Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are also part of the exterior changes. At the rear, the taillights now showcase an arrow pattern, and the taller diffuser boasts carbon fiber detailing, adding a touch of cool factor. The horizontal reflectors have been repositioned inside triangular cutouts, framing the aero element.
Inside the cabin, the steering wheel has been flattened at the top and bottom, replacing the previous flat-bottom wheel found in the European Performance package. Haptic buttons on the spokes and two new buttons beneath the spokes provide easy access to the Performance driving mode and RS Individual customization options. The 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit features new graphics and shift lights. Depending on the specification, the flat top of the steering wheel features a red 12 o’clock strip, complementing the red accents on the redesigned air vents. The shifter toggle has also been flattened. The RS Sport seats come in Nappa leather as standard, but there is an option to upgrade to RS Sport carbon-backed buckets with leather bolsters and microfiber centers. The doors feature ambient lighting hidden behind a perforated panel, creating diamond patterns.
Notably, Audi has even paid attention to the interior aroma of the RS 3. The company conducted chemical tests on approximately 200 cabin materials in their raw and finished states, under various climatic conditions. A team of five chemists evaluated the aromas to ensure that the new car smell of an Audi meets high customer standards.
Regarding visual appeal, the RS 3 offers new wheel designs, including exclusive paint colors such as Kyalami Green and Kemora Gray, which are unique to the RS division. Ascari Blue Metallic, Progressive Red, and Daytona Gray are also available, with the last option offering a new matte finish. The European trim levels include a base grade, followed by Carbon Black and the top-tier Carbon Vorsrung grades. The latter two come with additional carbon fiber and gloss black trim detailing, with Carbon Vorsrung also offering carbon-backed seats and a higher top speed of 174 miles per hour, compared to the base model’s 155 miles per hour.
While specifics about the sedan’s specifications for the US market are yet to be disclosed, it is expected that the pricing for the new RS 3 will be higher than the outgoing model’s $63,500 price. The enhancements and updates made to the new RS 3 make it a compelling choice for car enthusiasts, offering both performance and aesthetic appeal.