Audi's refreshed RS3 shaves five seconds off Nürburgring lap time

As part of Audi's comprehensive lineup refresh, the RS3 has also received some updates. While these changes are not revolutionary, they have resulted in a five-second improvement on the Nürburgring track.

At first glance, not much has changed. Fans of the model will certainly notice the larger grille (a standard feature with Audi facelifts) and its thicker frame. It also has three air inlets at the bottom, inspired by the rally car competing in the Pikes Peak races. Notably, the daytime running lights in a checkerboard pattern are one of three options available. The rear diffuser now features a stop light right in the middle.

The cabin has also been updated, featuring a flat-topped and flat-bottomed steering wheel with a red stripe at the 12 o'clock position. Optional bucket seats are available, and the interior can be adorned with either carbon fiber or Nappa leather. Optional color packages in red and green extend these colors to the seat belts, air vent grilles, seat stitching, armrest, and steering wheel.

The engine remains unchanged: it is still a five-cylinder unit with a displacement of 2.5 litres, generating 400 HP and 369 lb-ft of torque. There's no denying that the RS3 is prized for its handling characteristics, and this engine boasts a lot of character and allows it to keep pace with the R8 on the track. The sprint to sixty takes just 3.8 seconds.

Modifications to the chassis must have occurred, as the RS3 has improved its Nürburgring lap time by five seconds (7:33.123). According to the manufacturer, the changes have enhanced the inner wheel braking system in corners. The previous rear differential, which 'tightens' the outer wheel to reduce understeer, was already impressive. Now, additional lines of code have further improved these components.

According to information from Audi headquarters, orders for the refreshed RS3 can be placed starting October 2024. The price in Poland has not yet been announced, but in Germany, the hatchback version is priced at €66,000, or approximately $70,000.