Make / Model Search
New models - Audi - RS3New ‘King of the ’Ring’ RS3 is even hotterAudi has updated its RS3 hot hatch (and sedan) to be even sharper, but prices are up15 May 2025 AUDI has confirmed updated RS3 hatch and sedan models with improved handling, revised styling and more standard tech, but they will to cost nearly $10k more than their predecessors.
The Ingolstadt brand retains its premium pocket rocket crown with the sensationally capable RS3 model, keeping its burbly five-pot for another year – albeit with unchanged power – but a major price hike may hinder appeal.
Buyers will fork out around $9000 more for the new RS3 sedan ($107,800 before on-road costs) and hatch ($104,800 + ORC) compared with the 2024 range, but for the extra money the model is more focused than ever.
Visual changes include a redesigned hexagonal grille up front, darkened matrix LED headlights, and a new rear bumper with integrated diffuser – topped off by 19-inch Audi Sport wheels.
Inside, the cockpit has been reimagined with fresh Nappa leather seat designs, a flat-top-and-bottom leather-trimmed steering wheel (new to the RS3), a 10.1-inch infotainment screen and 12.3-inch virtual cockpit with dedicated RS displays.
The venerable 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine, coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, produces an unchanged 294kW/500Nm in the new model – but the unit is on borrowed time when it comes to emissions regulations, meaning the 2025 RS3 could represent the last chance to own a new five-pot Audi.
Audi has still upped the performance ante, but rather than adding power the German marque’s engineers have fiddled with the torque splitter – a multi-disc clutch system at the rear axle – which apportions drive between the rear treads.
The trick rear axle, Audi claims, improves turn-in, reduces understeer and provides quicker acceleration out of corners, putting the RS3 at the top of the pops.
Such dynamic enhancements enabled the four-ring brand to steal back the Nurburgring lap record for the compact production category – previously held by the BMW M2 – beating every other hot hatch, small sedan and compact coupe with a blistering time of 7:33.123 minutes (compared to the BMW’s 7:38.706 minutes, set in 2023).
In terms of real-world performance, the new model offers an unchanged 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds, which still puts it at the top of the internal combustion ladder, but it is in the corners that the model outpaces just about any non-supercar (and given its ’Ring time, many supercars and some hypercars from a decade or so ago).
“The latest Audi RS 3 not only embodies our motorsport heritage but also reflects our commitment to delivering exhilarating driving experiences and unparalleled performance,” said Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering.
“The RS 3 has always been known for its thrilling dynamism, and the latest edition is no exception.”
The Audi RS3 models will arrive in Australian showrooms from mid-2025.  Read more8th of May 2025  New-gen Audi A5 and S5 here soonPetrol V6 hybrid focus for new generation Audi A5 and S5 sedan and wagon, from $79,900All new models Alfa Romeo Abarth Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chrysler Chevrolet Dodge Citroen Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton Haval Great Wall Honda Holden Hyundai HSV Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia Lexus Land Rover Mazda Maserati Mercedes-Benz McLaren Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Saab Rolls-Royce Smart Skoda Subaru SsangYong Tesla Suzuki Volkswagen Toyota VolvoMotor industry news GoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events. |
|
Connect with us
Facebook Twitter Instagram