Welcome to car reviews from Neftin Editorial Team! Today, we’re diving into the details of the highly anticipated 2025 Audi RS3.
This blog post will cover everything you need to know about the design, performance, and release date of this exciting new model.
First Look of 2025 Audi RS3 at the Nurburgring
Audi has given us our first preview of the new RS3, showcasing it driving around the Nurburgring and setting a lap record. While we’ll discuss this achievement later, let’s first focus on the design and performance, which are arguably more important than lap times.
Audi previously hinted at the potential to increase the power on the RS3 engine. However, they decided not to make any changes for this model. The 2025 RS3 will maintain 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque, which translates to about 401 horsepower in the US.
Key Specifications
| Specification | 2025 Audi RS3 |
|---|---|
| Power | 400 PS |
| Torque | 500 Nm |
| Horsepower (US) | 401 hp |
2025 Audi RS3 Exterior Design Updates
Lighting
One of the first noticeable changes is in the lights. The current RS3 features a Checkered Flag daytime running light signature with an animation that displays “RS3” on one side and a blinking checkered flag on the other. Depending on your location, the animation runs on different sides.
For the 2025 model, Audi has removed this feature. The new RS3 adopts the same style lights as the other A3 facelift models and the S3. The checkered flag motif is now at the top, with the daytime running lights wider and positioned higher.
Unfortunately, it seems the RS3 animation will no longer be present.
| Feature | Current RS3 | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime Running Lights | Checkered Flag animation | Same style as A3 facelift, S3 |
| Animation | RS3 and blinking flag | Removed |
| Checkered Flag Motif Location | Bottom | Top |
Grille
The front grille design has also changed. Moving away from the honeycomb design, the new grille features a double diamond shape, which may not appeal to everyone.
Despite this, the grille is wider and larger. The area below the grille now includes a gap and three air intake spaces that weren’t present in the previous generation. This change is due to the wider and larger grille, integrating previously hidden elements.
| Feature | Current RS3 | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Grille Design | Honeycomb | Double Diamond |
| Grille Size | Standard | Wider and Larger |
| Air Intake Spaces | Not Present | Three Spaces Below Grille |
Rear Design
At the rear, Audi addressed a common complaint about the plasticky section at the bottom of the bumper. The diffuser has been enlarged, extending into the middle of the section, significantly improving the look. The new diffuser also features a central reflector, adding a racing car aesthetic.
| Feature | Current RS3 | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom Bumper | Plasticky Section | Enlarged Diffuser |
| Diffuser | Standard | Central Reflector Added |
2025 Audi RS3 Interior Enhancements
Steering Wheel
Inside, the steering wheel has undergone a significant redesign. The previous big round steering wheel, which was required for adaptive cruise control and lane assist, is replaced by a squared-off round design.
This change, originally from the Q4 e-tron, is now being incorporated into other Audi models, including the RS3. The new steering wheel is available in Alcantara with a stripe at the top and features red buttons from the e-tron GT.
The RS button, previously integrated into the existing RS3 steering wheel, is now on a separate button, along with a boost button. Additionally, Audi has returned to the circular rev counter tachometer from the previous RS3 generation.
| Feature | Current RS3 | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Steering Wheel Design | Big Round | Squared-off Round (from Q4 e-tron) |
| Material | Standard | Alcantara with Stripe |
| Buttons | Integrated RS Button | Separate RS and Boost Buttons |
| Rev Counter | Digital | Circular (from previous RS3 generation) |
Interior Features
Other interior updates include features from the S3 and A3 facelift models, such as lighting inside the center console and potentially higher-quality dashboard materials.
It’s also likely that the seats in the new RS3 will mirror those in the e-tron GT, featuring a sportier design with the RS logo at the base of the headrest.
| Feature | Current RS3 | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Center Console Lighting | Not Present | Included |
| Dashboard Material | Standard Plastic | Potentially Higher Quality |
| Seat Design | Standard | Sportier Design (from e-tron GT) |
| Headrest Logo | Not Lit | RS Logo, Potentially Lit |
Performance and Lap Record
The RS3 set a new compact record at the Nurburgring, completing the lap in 7 minutes and 33.123 seconds, five seconds faster than the previous record holder, the BMW M2.
Interestingly, this improvement doesn’t come from enhanced engine performance but from other changes to the car’s setup, optimizing it for the racetrack. Whether these changes will make it a better road car remains to be seen.
| Lap Time (Nurburgring) | Previous Record Holder | 2025 Audi RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| 7:38.123 | BMW M2 | 7:33.123 |
2025 Audi RS3 Price & Release Date
The new RS3 will be available to order from the end of August, with showrooms expecting it around early October 2024, subject to change. Regarding pricing, an increase of about £5,000 is anticipated.
The current generation Vorsprung version costs around £64,000 in the UK, so the new version will likely be priced between £69,000 and £70,000, excluding optional extras.
| Availability | Date |
|---|---|
| Order Date | End of August 2024 |
| Showroom Availability | Early October 2024 |
| Pricing | Current Generation | 2025 RS3 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | £64,000 | £69,000 – £70,000 |
| Expected Increase | N/A | £5,000 |
Competitors to consider
When looking at alternatives to the 2025 Audi RS3, there are several noteworthy contenders in the sports sedan and compact performance car segments.
BMW M2
First up is the BMW M2 Competition. This car is renowned for its rear-wheel-drive setup and superb handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
With 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, the M2 Competition delivers a traditional and balanced driving experience that many purists appreciate. The M2’s precise steering and agility ensure an engaging drive, particularly for those who love the feel of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
Mercedes-AMG A45
Another strong competitor is the Mercedes-AMG A45. This model features a turbocharged engine that pumps out 421 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Its advanced all-wheel-drive system and aggressive styling make it a formidable rival to the RS3 in both performance and luxury.
The AMG A45 is known for its impressive power and dynamic driving experience, appealing to those who want a high-performance vehicle with a premium feel.
Tesla Model 3
For those inclined towards electric vehicles, the Tesla Model 3 Performance offers a compelling alternative. With approximately 450 horsepower, it matches the power output of many gasoline-powered sports cars.
The Model 3 Performance is celebrated for its instant torque, rapid acceleration, and cutting-edge technology, providing a unique and exhilarating driving experience that is also eco-friendly.
Volkswagen Golf R
The Volkswagen Golf R is another notable option. Sharing some components with the Audi RS3, the Golf R offers 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
It combines excellent driving dynamics with everyday practicality, all at a more accessible price point. The Golf R is a strong contender for those who seek a balance between performance and usability.
Porsche 718 Cayman
Lastly, while it’s not a direct competitor in the sedan segment, the Porsche 718 Cayman deserves mention. Particularly in its GTS variant, the Cayman delivers 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque.
As a mid-engine sports car, it offers a pure driving experience with superb balance and handling, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize driving pleasure over practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 2025 Audi RS3
The 2025 Audi RS3 features several design updates:
Lighting: The Checkered Flag daytime running lights animation has been removed. The new model has the same style lights as the A3 facelift models, with the checkered flag motif moved to the top.
Grille: The honeycomb design has been replaced with a double diamond shape, and the grille is wider and larger with additional air intake spaces.
Rear Design: The plasticky section at the bottom of the bumper has been replaced with a larger diffuser that includes a central reflector, enhancing the car’s sporty look.
The 2025 Audi RS3 maintains its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, delivering 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque, which translates to about 401 horsepower in the U.S. Minor tweaks might increase the power slightly, but significant changes under the hood are not expected.
Interior enhancements in the 2025 Audi RS3 include:
Steering Wheel: A new squared-off round design originally from the Q4 e-tron, available in Alcantara with a stripe at the top. It also features separate RS and boost buttons.
Dashboard and Console: Potentially higher-quality materials and lighting inside the center console.
Seats: The seats may mirror those in the e-tron GT, featuring a sportier design with the RS logo at the base of the headrest.
The RS3 set a new compact record at the Nurburgring, completing the lap in 7 minutes and 33.123 seconds, five seconds faster than the previous record holder, the BMW M2. This improvement is attributed to changes in the car’s setup rather than enhanced engine performance.
The 2025 Audi RS3 will be available to order from the end of August 2024, with showrooms expecting it around early October 2024. The price is expected to increase by about £5,000 from the current generation Vorsprung version, which costs around £64,000 in the UK. The new version will likely be priced between £69,000 and £70,000, excluding optional extras.
The 2025 Audi RS3 will include new bumpers, updated lighting units, a bolder grille with new intakes and a sportier mesh pattern, and revised taillights with new reverse lights. It will also feature the new four-ring logo that debuted on the Q8 e-tron.
The RS3 will retain its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. While significant changes under the hood are not expected, minor tweaks might be made to increase the power slightly.
