2025 Audi RS3
If you’re looking to buy the ultimate in Audi performance, you’ll be looking at an Audi model that has the letters RS in front of the model name. In fact, Audi’s performance division, better known as Audi Sport, has been responsible for turning out iconic vehicles like the RS7, RS6, and even an SUV called the RSQ8. However, back in 2016, Audi Sport introduced the smallest and most affordable member of their family called the RS3.
It is built off of the iconic A3 and S3, and just like the regular models, it got a full redesign. It was reintroduced for its second generation back in 2022. Now for 2025, just like the smaller A3, the RS3 is getting its first round of updates.
It is still powered by the iconic 2.5 L turbocharged 5 cylinder making nearly 400 horsepower with the company’s signature quattro all wheel drive system. The big question is whether Audi has managed to make enough changes to their smallest performance sedan to keep enthusiasts flocking into showrooms.
Engine and Performance
Signature 5 Cylinder Engine
The RS3 continues to use a 2.5 L gasoline direct injection DOHC turbocharged 5 cylinder engine.
This is the only vehicle in its segment left with a 5 cylinder layout.
Think of this engine as half of a Lamborghini Huracán 5.2 L V10 or half of an Audi R8 V10, with a big turbo pushing around 22 psi of boost.
Power Output
With the refresh, horsepower has technically gone down slightly.
Conflicting reports show 401 hp, but Audi officially lists:
394 horsepower
369 lb ft torque
Transmission and Drivetrain
7 speed dual clutch transmission
Standard quattro AWD with RS rear torque splitter
Capable of sending 100 percent power side to side
Can send more power to the rear axle
Allows actual tail out drifts
Fuel Economy
20 mpg city
29 mpg highway
23 mpg combined
Premium fuel required
14.5 gallon tank
Around 330 miles of range
0 to 60 mph and Top Speed
Audi claims 0 to 60 in 3.6 seconds
Dynamic Plus Package increases top speed to 180 mph
Curb weight: just over 3600 pounds
Exterior Design Updates
Paint and Overall Look
Review car painted in Ascari Blue, new for 2025.
Color has metallic fleck and strong reflections.
Wider and lower than A3 and S3.
1.4 inches wider and about 1 inch lower.
Front Fascia
Updated grille with more black trim.
Functional openings for improved cooling.
Diamond texture grille design.
Optional $3000 Carbon Package adds genuine carbon fiber.
New Audi rings in anthracite finish.
Matrix LED headlights with:
Interchangeable light signatures
Dynamic turn signals
Integrated all weather lights
Side Profile
Wheelbase: 103.9 inches
Length: 178.5 inches
Dynamic Plus Package wheels:
10 spoke gray finish
Carbon ceramic brakes
15 inch rotors with red 6 piston calipers
Tires: 265/30 front, 245 rear
Adaptive dampers
Carbon mirror caps with cameras and turn signals
Traditional sunroof with wind deflector
New Audi RS3 badging on B pillar
Rear Design
Larger carbon fiber rear wing with Carbon Package
Full LED tail lamps with sequential indicators
Blacked out new Audi rings
Significantly improved bumper design:
Eliminates fake vents from previous model
Dual oval exhaust tips (quad inside)
Exhaust and Sound
Unique 5 cylinder sound
Pops and crackles
$1000 sport exhaust package
Cargo Space
Trunk space: 8.3 cubic feet
Small for the segment
Seats fold 40/20/40
12V battery located in trunk for balance
Underfloor storage available
Would be more practical as a hatchback like Europe’s RS3 Sportback
Interior, Tech and Features
Key Fob and Entry
Intelligent access key with RS badge
Traditional pull style handles
Mirrors electrically fold when locked
No walk away auto lock like BMW
Front Seats and Interior Layout
Standard black interior only
Optional stitching:
Red
Green
Diamond quilted RS sport seats
12 way adjustability
Adjustable thigh extender
Seats are heated
No ventilated seats (major drawback)
Materials
Suede Alcantara door trim with illuminated pattern
Soft touch upper panels
Hard plastic lower panels
Sonos premium sound replacing Bang & Olufsen
Dashboard and Controls
Flat top and flat bottom squirkle steering wheel
New buttons for drive modes
Touch sensitive controls
12.3 inch Virtual Cockpit with:
Multiple views
GPS integration
Redesigned RS graphics
Infotainment
10.2 inch center display
Updated software
Haptic feedback touchscreen
360 camera available
Resolution not the best
Wireless charging pad (non cooled)
Center Console
Touch sensitive volume pad
Piano black finish
Electronic shifter with push button park
Adjustable padded armrest
Comfort
Solid build quality
No rattles
Traditional sunroof with mesh shade
Auto dimming mirror
Rear Seat Space
Around 35 inches legroom
Hard touch plastic on door panels (not acceptable for price)
Suede inserts and padded elbow support
One touch up down windows
Seats fold down for cargo
No reclining function
Rear AC vents
Two USB C ports
Driving Experience
The RS3 feels significantly lower and wider than the A3 and S3, giving it a much more aggressive stance.
The 5 cylinder engine delivers a charismatic and unique sound that enhances the sense of driving something special.
Steering feel is improved with the updated flat top and flat bottom wheel.
Dynamic Plus Package sharpens the handling further with ceramic brakes and wider front tires.
Cabin remains cozy, solid and well built with no rattles.
However, lack of ventilated seats and limited color options remain notable drawbacks.
Visibility is decent, and the 360 camera assists well even though graphics are not class leading.
Overall, the RS3 continues to feel like the most characterful compact performance sedan thanks to its engine and AWD tuning.
