Audi has unveiled the facelifted high-performance RS3, available in both sedan and Sportback body styles. Powered by a five-cylinder engine, the latest RS3 sets a new benchmark for its class with a record-breaking lap time of 7:33.123 minutes around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.
Exterior-wise, the updated design includes a new hexagonal Singleframe grille with a diamond pattern. This design element is echoed in the side air intakes, which feature vertical black accents and three small openings above the front splitter.
The headlamps have also been revised with a 24-element chequered flag signature for the daytime running lights (DRLs). With matrix LEDs optioned, drivers can also choose between three additional DRL designs in the MMI touch display for the first time.
The rear of the vehicle features a revised design, with the mesh insert removed and the RS-specific diffuser becoming more prominent. The dual oval tailpipes remain but with larger black frames. Both headlights and taillights have been updated with new graphics and animations.
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The RS3’s interior retains the same layout as before, but with the new addition like a sport-inspired steering wheel with a flat top and bottom, and optional carbon-backed RS bucket seats. The interior also boasts new lighting, finishes, and trim options, some of which are optional upgrades. It retains the familiar 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.1-inch central touchscreen. These displays are enhanced by updated software, offering new features and functions, including an app store for added convenience.
The Audi RS3 maintains its distinctive 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, delivering 395 hp (metric) and 500 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD), the RS3 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 290 km/h.
To achieve a record-breaking lap time on the Nürburgring, Audi engineers refined various aspects of the RS3’s performance. These enhancements include improved brake torque vectoring for sharper cornering, a refined adaptive damper algorithm for enhanced handling, and new bespoke tires (Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks being an option) designed to optimize performance.
Audi also claims that the facelifted RS3 exhibits increased tail-happy characteristics, making driving more engaging.
GALLERY
Audi RS3 Sedan
Audi RS3 Sportback
