New Audi RS3 will be the final with a five cylinder

Hot hatch arrives with updated front end, interior and with better cornering prowess

Will Rimell

19 August 2024

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Audi’s signature five-cylinder engine will bow out with the updated RS3 after 48 years in production.

Making the same 394bhp as in the previous RS3, the 2.5 TFSI is the only five-pot still in mainstream use. It also powers the higher-riding RS Q3.
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The upgraded RS3 will arrive next month and follows the A3, which received a wide-reaching refresh earlier this year.
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Available in Sportback and Saloon bodystyles, the updated RS3 gains a new splitter at the front.
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This is joined by fresh front and rear LED signatures (with a chequered design), redesigned side air intakes and carbon detailing.
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In all, Audi says this gives the RS3 a more sportier appearance over its predecessor.
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Inside, new RS bucket seats clad in Nappa leather, and a flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel – now with haptic buttons replacing physical controls – have been fitted.
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Other changes are subtle and mirror the A3, such as redesigned air vents and a smaller gear selector for the automatic ’box.
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Physical climate controls remain.
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Underneath, the RS3’s chassis controls have been upgraded, making it quicker and more stable when cornering, says Audi.
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The tuning of key components – such as to its brake torque vectoring – means understeer is reduced when entering a corner and more power can be used both through and out of bends.
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Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks can be optioned for owners wanting even more grip on track.
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The Mercedes-AMG A45 S and Volkswagen Golf R rival offers the same performance as its predecessor with its 0-62mph time remaining at 3.8sec.
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Power is sent to all four wheels through the same seven-speed double-clutch transmission as before.
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UK prices start at £59,510 for the Sportback and £60,510 for the Saloon.
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Three trim levels are offered and the top trim, Carbon Vorsprung, raises the top speed from 155mph to 174mph.
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Deliveries will begin next month.
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The RS3 is the brand’s most popular Audi Sport model, selling 80,000 examples since its launch in 2011.
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It was even taken off sale for a short period last year because demand outstripped supply.

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