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One of the world’s most exciting compact sedans has received a comprehensive update. Yes, just months after claiming a lap record on the fearsome Nürburgring, Audi has revealed the facelifted RS 3, which soldiers on with its magnificent turbocharged five-cylinder engine, sleeker styling, and an improved interior. Does it have what it takes to fend off attacks from the new BMW M2 and the recently updated Mercedes-AMG CLA 45? Let’s find out.

Under the hood, you’ll find the familiar 2.5-liter five-pot that produces 394 hp and 369 lb-ft. That may not sound like much, but it’s more than enough poke to get the little Audi to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds, making it just as quick as the most rapid supercars from a few years ago. The maximum top speed is pegged at 180 mph – more than enough.

Delightful Five-Cylinder Engine Remains

While all that is very impressive, the five-cylinder is best known for its delightful exhaust note. Raspy and pronounced, the RS3’s unmistakable howl – a result of the 1-2-4-5-3 firing sequence – has been amplified by the twin RS exhaust system with variable flap control. In RS Performance and RS Torque Rear, the noise is more pronounced, with the exhaust flap control optimized between 2,200 and 3,500 rpm. There’s also an optional RS Sport exhaust system, for a more thunderous note.

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But the RS 3 isn’t just about straight-line speed. Audi claims the performance sedan/hot hatch is now even better in the corners. Courtesy of brake torque vectoring and fine-tuning, Ingolstadt says the RS3 “follows the corner’s radius more precisely than before,” and notes that the car can be positioned earlier, making it easier to put the power down sooner without losing traction. This will make it considerably quicker around a track, or over your favorite mountain pass.

Sharper Handling Courtesy Of Suspension Fine-Tuning, Among Other Things…

The RS3 receives RS sport suspension with adaptive dampers, while brake torque vectoring, electronic stability control, and the rear wheel torque splitter ensure the vehicle handles with poise and panache. Depending on the drive mode, the RS3’s dynamics can be sharpened, allowing the driver to corner more quickly. Speaking of the drive modes, there is a Performance mode with a quick-access button on the steering wheel.

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Let’s not forget that the RS 3 raced around the Green Hell with a lap time of 7:33.123, besting the previous record holder, the BMW M2, by more than five seconds. For those with a penchant for tail sliding, it’s now easier to get the RS3 sideways. Before, inducing oversteer required heavier throttle input, but Audi says it is now easier to do so with steering angle. As standard, the new RS3 receives a C-rated tire that provides greater grip without sacrificing comfort. Semi-slick Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires are available as an optional extra.

Understating And Menacing, Like All Fast Audis

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at the design updates. More aggressive and sportier than before – while retaining that classic understated Audi look – the RS 3 receives a new hexagonal Singleframe grille with a more prominent border. Wider and flatter than the outgoing model, Audi says it “emphasizes the dynamics” of the performance sedan. The grille blends seamlessly into the headlights, which have also been updated.

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The daytime running light pattern has a new digital signature with a redesigned checkered flag digital motif, and for the first time on the RS3, customers can choose from three DRL designs for the matrix LED headlights (via the MMI display). Finally, the front fascia benefits from new side air intakes with black vertical blades and a new front splitter inspired by the iconic 1987 Audi Sport quattro S1 Pikes Peak.

Plenty Of Design Options To Choose From

At the rear, the RS3 receives vertical side reflectors, along with an RS-exclusive diffuser with a racecar-like red reflector in the center. The diffuser also houses the oval-shaped tailpipes, from where the five-cylinder howl originates. The taillights also boast new graphics, with updated dynamic lighting sequences. As standard, the RS3 receives 19-inch wheels in a matte black finish, but other designs – available in matte dark gray or glossy metallic black – can also be specified.

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Customers can opt for high-gloss or matte finishes for the diffuser or the Singleframe grille, which receives a black finish as standard. Carbon fiber exterior accessories are also available for the side skirts, diffuser trim, and front air intakes. As for color choices, the familiar Kyalami Green and Kemora Gray remain part of the palette and are now joined by new metallic finishes, namely Progressive Red and Ascari Blue. The exterior and mechanical bits aren’t the only parts of the RS3 to receive an upgrade, with plenty to look forward to on the inside.

Tech, Pricing, And Availability

The first thing the driver will notice is the new steering wheel, which has been flattened at the bottom and top. While it looks peculiar, Audi says the sportier steering wheel fits better when cornering, particularly around sharp bends. It’s available in the standard perforated leather finish or with optional Dinamica (and a 12 o’clock marker). As for the seats, there are standard RS sport or bucket seats that provide greater support. The standard seats are trimmed in Fine Nappa leather, while the bucket seats receive Pearl Nappa leather upholstery. Carbon fiber inlays are present as expected.

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In terms of tech, the RS 3 receives the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus system with Sport, Performance, and Runway views. In Runway mode, there’s a new rev counter that shows the revs per minute in the middle of the digital instrument cluster. There are also displays for the torque, power output, acceleration, and even lap times. Audi says the RS3 Sedan (and its Sportback sibling, not tipped for US arrival) will reach European dealers in October. Therefore, we can expect the RS3 to hit US roads right at the end of 2024 or early in 2025. Local pricing is yet to be announced, but in Europe, the RS3 Sportback has a starting price of €66,000 ($73,000) while the Sedan is priced at €68,000 ($75,300).

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Expert Opinion

Not since the first-generation (8P) Audi RS3 have there been such radical cosmetic differences between an A3 with an S-Line kit and the range-topping hyper hatch. Is Ingolstadt taking a page out of Munich’s book? The M2 no longer looks anything like a 2 Series… Either way, we approve – radical styling piques the curiosity of all who see it, from the budding enthusiast laying eyes on a cool car for the first time to the well-traveled buyer seeking something special.

Profession

Automotive Journalist