Having established a lap record for the fastest compact car at the Nürburgring, the updated Audi RS3 is now set for mainstream attention. Despite being described as 'new', this iteration is merely a mid-cycle refresh for the potent five-cylinder model. The vehicle features a revamped grille accompanied by sleeker matrix LED headlights with customizable daytime running light designs. The diamond motif on the single-frame grille is mirrored in the refreshed air intakes, which now include vertical black blades. To enhance its aggressive appearance, the front splitter now boasts three additional openings, creating an illusion of a broader stance. Audi suggests the design echoes the iconic 1987 Quattro S1 Pikes Peak, though the resemblance is subtle. At the rear, the taillights showcase new patterns, and the bumper now houses two vertical side reflectors and a third one dividing the diffuser.
The color palette expands with the introduction of metallic Ascari Blue and Progressive Red, alongside the existing Kyalami Green and Kemora Grey. Audi now offers the RS3 in Daytona Gray with a matte finish, while the grille and diffuser are consistently black, either in high-gloss or a subdued matte style. Standard 19-inch wheels come in matte black and can be upgraded to optional designs from the European RS3 Performance Edition, available in matte dark gray or glossy black metallic with a two-tone scheme. Inside, the RS3 can be fitted with optional carbon bucket seats, blending Nappa leather for the bolsters with microfiber and a matte carbon rear, or standard sports seats in Nappa leather for less track-focused use. The steering wheel now features flat top and bottom sections, a red 12 o'clock mark, and quick-select buttons for various driving modes. The shifter has a flatter design, though the addition of red accents on the air vents is a divisive choice.
The RS3 Sportback continues the tradition of the five-door hot hatch in Europe, contrasting with the four-door sedan available in the US. European enthusiasts enjoy a broader selection of compact performance vehicles from the Volkswagen Group, including the Golf R wagon not sold in the US. The RS3 retains its five-cylinder engine without an increase in power; the 2.5 TFSI still delivers 395 horsepower in European trim. However, under the hood, Audi has refined the adaptive dampers with a new algorithm and enhanced brake torque vectoring for improved cornering speeds and a more drift-friendly nature. Available tires include new standard options and optional Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks. In Germany, where orders open at the end of August, the RS3 Sportback starts at €66,000 ($72,800), slightly over €12,000 ($13,200) more than a base Golf R, with the RS3 Sedan priced at €68,000 ($75,000).
