The 2025 RS3 is grabbing attention for its typical enhancements. This compact performance vehicle receives a mid-cycle refresh, featuring exterior design adjustments, a more streamlined steering wheel, and carbon fiber bucket seats. Moreover, there are subtle modifications that aren't immediately noticeable. We're not just referring to the more aggressive exhaust system, which now produces a "richer and even more unique" sound. Audi claims the car now has a more pleasant aroma. Indeed, the RS3's interior consists of around 200 components, each of which undergoes rigorous chemical testing. Audi subjects these components to heat in a specialized chamber and then analyzes the emitted air. This intricate procedure requires 2-3 hours per component. After this process, the materials are integrated into the car to ensure harmonious integration. The German luxury automaker then conducts further testing.
To ensure a pleasant interior scent regardless of the weather, Audi employs a team of five chemists dedicated to odor analysis. The RS3 is equipped with external heaters to mimic extreme summer temperatures. Despite the growing trend among automakers to use vegan materials, the RS3 continues to feature genuine leather on the seats and steering wheel. This level of detail seems extraordinary for a model that is considered lower-tier within Audi's lineup. Although the RS3 is the performance variant, it still utilizes the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform. Given that Audi is a more premium brand than VW, Skoda, SEAT, and Cupra, it must justify its higher price tag by offering a superior vehicle. The retention of numerous physical buttons is a significant advantage.
However, the RS3's standout feature is not its interior fragrance or the number of conventional controls. The true highlight lies under the hood, where the five-cylinder engine continues to power the vehicle for a few more years. Audi has committed to exclusively producing electric vehicles starting in 2026, making this the final model with the Four Rings to feature this distinctive powertrain. The TT RS was discontinued last year, and the next-generation Q3 is unlikely to offer a five-cylinder RS variant. If you're open to relocating to Europe, Audi will gladly offer you the RS3 as a hatchback. Otherwise, the sedan version is your only option. Since its inception in 2011, close to 80,000 units have been sold. The latest, and final, iteration will be available at dealerships in Europe starting in October, with a potential US release in 2025.
