The Audi RS 3 has been updated for the 2025 model year along with the rest of the A3 range. The updated A3 was first shown in March and the updated S3 followed in April.
The cars are expected to reach U.S. showrooms later this year, and once again only the sedan body style is expected here. In other markets Audi offers a hatchback alternative, which the automaker refers to as a Sportback.
2025 Audi RS 3
When it comes to updates for the 2025 RS 3, the chassis was given particular focus. Recalibration of the all-wheel drive, the electronic stability control, adaptive dampers, and brake-based torque vectoring system results in the car being able to deliver higher cornering speeds. The changes have already been proven on the Nürburgring, where the 2025 RS 3 set a record for compact cars with a time of 7:33.123. This was achieved using the available Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tires and carbon-ceramic brake rotors.
Audi said it is also easier to make the car oversteer in a controlled manner, which in turn makes drifts easier to execute. New controls are also included to help make it easier to extract maximum performance quickly. A new checkered flag button places the car into its Performance mode, while a red RS button on the steering wheel offers quick access to the RS Individual mode.
2025 Audi RS 3
The 2025 RS 3 sticks with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5. The power figure for the U.S. hasn’t been announced but in other markets the engine delivers a peak 394 hp.
Drive goes to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and Audi said owners can expect 0-62 mph acceleration in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph.
2025 Audi RS 3
The 2025 RS 3 also benefits from the updates introduced on the rest of the A3 range. These include minor styling tweaks, new interior trim options, and updated in-car technology including a range of on-demand features that can be added or removed via the MyAudi app.
Styling changes unique to the RS 3 include headlights with a checkered flag pattern for the daytime running lights, a diamond-shape pattern for the mesh of the front grille, and side intakes in the front fascia with a blade finished in black. At the rear, there’s also a new design for the diffuser which features a red reflector in its center.
2025 Audi RS 3
Inside, there’s a new steering wheel flattened at the top and bottom, sports seats up front (bucket seats are available), and carbon-fiber accents. The ambient lighting package has also been updated and can now provide a welcome sign by displaying RS rhombus logos when locking and unlocking the car. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 10.1-inch infotainment screen carry over unchanged from the outgoing RS 3.
Pricing information for the U.S. will be announced closer to the market launch.