First Drive Review: 2025 Audi RS3 — A Big Thrill in a Small Package

The 2025 Audi RS3 continues to prove that great things come in small, turbocharged packages. It’s one of the most well-rounded performance sedans on the market — compact in size yet explosive in capability. Under the hood sits Audi’s signature 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five, producing 401 horsepower and delivering its distinctive rally-inspired soundtrack. Power is sent through a lightning-quick seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which features advanced torque vectoring that allows the car to pivot around corners or even drift on command in its “RS Torque Rear” mode.

For 2025, Audi gives the RS3 a meaningful refresh. The front fascia has been redesigned with a larger grille, wider air intakes, and a full-width splitter that emphasizes its aggressive stance. Around back, new taillights and Matrix LED headlights feature customizable daytime running light signatures — four patterns in total. The color palette expands to include Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and matte Daytona Gray, while a fresh wheel design complements the updated look.

Inside, the cabin remains a high-tech, driver-focused environment with carbon-backed performance seats, a new steering wheel, and revised digital graphics for the instrument cluster. Like the updated S3, the RS3 benefits from retuned chassis and driveline software, offering sharper handling, improved traction, and greater composure on track or twisty roads.

With its balance of luxury, agility, and explosive pace, the 2025 RS3 makes a compelling argument that you don’t need an M3 to experience true driving excitement — just five cylinders and a lot of confidence.

Exterior Looks: Your Audi Likes Bright Colors

The good news is that if you want the incredibly vibrant Kyalami Green seen on our tester, it’s a no-cost color option, as is Arkona White. No matter which shade you choose, the RS3’s styling perfectly captures the compact performance car ethos without veering into excess. The clean-cut bodywork, subtle front splitter, and neatly integrated carbon fiber rear spoiler all come together as a cohesive and athletic package. Audi has always been a master of lighting design, and the new Matrix LED headlights bring even more visual sophistication with their intricate animations and sharp detailing.

Our test car came equipped with the $2,850 Carbon Package, the $1,000 RS sport exhaust system, and a $300 black roof, the latter creating striking contrast against the vivid Kyalami Green paint. Only 19-inch wheels are available — the perfect size for a small, high-performance sedan, balancing grip and ride quality. The Carbon Fiber Package adds exterior carbon accents, while the Dynamic Plus Package dials things up further with ceramic front brakes featuring red calipers, a carbon engine cover, and an increased top speed of 180 mph.

Interior & On-Board Technology: Your Audi Enjoys Interior Lighting

Much like the A3 and S3, the RS3 offers plenty of shoulder room up front and enough legroom in the back to keep adults comfortable on shorter trips. Inside, Audi sticks to its reputation for high-quality materials. The Nappa leather seats are as stylish as ever, complete with embossed RS logos and subtle black stitching. For an extra touch of flair, a $700 design package lets you add red or green stitching and matching interior accents throughout the cabin. The trunk isn’t huge, but it’s perfectly fine for grocery runs or a weekend getaway. Finishing off the cockpit is a newly designed steering wheel with a flat top and bottom, complemented by aluminum paddle shifters tucked just behind.

 

 

Audi has clearly put thought into the RS3’s interior ambiance, but not in the over-the-top, nightclub-on-wheels way some luxury brands go. The LED Interior Lighting Package Pro comes standard, featuring hundreds of rhombus-shaped laser cutouts of varying sizes along the door panels. It’s subtle rather than flashy, but it gives the cabin a noticeable sense of style. Plus, there’s plenty of customization to dial in your preferred vibe. Audi aimed to strike the perfect balance between performance and luxury, and in our view, they’ve nailed it.

Infotainment: Your Audi Likes Gauges

The 10.1-inch center touchscreen feels just right for the RS3—clear, crisp, and quick to respond to touch inputs. But the real star of the show is the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus gauge cluster. While it might feel a bit over-the-top for some, it’s a blast to use and keeps all the crucial info right in your line of sight. A new rev counter takes center stage, and you can easily cycle through readouts for g-forces, power, torque, acceleration, and even lap times.

The main screen also displays engine oil, coolant, torque splitter, transmission, and brake data. It’s smart enough to alert you if, for example, the differential temperature climbs too high, giving you a nudge to ease off for a bit. Sound-wise, the RS3 uses a Sonos audio system, which does its job—but Audi has delivered better audio experiences in other models.

Performance: Your Audi Loves Corners

The Audi RS3 rocks its distinctive turbocharged five-cylinder engine, putting out 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a lightning-fast seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system.

At idle, the engine’s burble is unmistakable, but the real fun starts when you press the accelerator. Switch to Dynamic, RS Performance, or RS Torque Rear mode, and the exhaust flap opens, letting the engine’s growl become part of the driving experience. Pair that with the playful dual-clutch gearbox, and upshifts and downshifts feel like flipping through a high-speed musical score—thrilling, sharp, and endlessly entertaining.

Performance Impressions

The RS Torque Rear mode manages an upgraded rear torque splitter, favoring the outside rear wheel to make drifting a breeze. In other words, the RS3 suddenly becomes far more playful when you’re on the throttle. The Dynamic and RS Performance modes take it even further, shifting power between the front and rear axles, while the brake-torque-vectoring system keeps the car razor-sharp through twisty corners. Add in the smooth, quick-shifting transmission and upgraded brakes, and you’ve got confidence-inspiring control at nearly any speed.

Off the line, the RS3 is explosive. With launch control, it hits 0–60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, though slightly over four seconds is more typical without it. But straight-line speed is just the beginning—the real thrill comes from corner exits, where traction is plentiful, and the torque curve delivers power instantly. Throttle response varies with the mode: sharp, sharper, or full-on laser-focused depending on how you drive.

Each drive mode changes the car’s personality. Dynamic mode leans into a playful, oversteer-biased character, perfect for fun on the street or track. RS Performance mode, on the other hand, prioritizes precision, chassis control, and perfectly measured corner entries, letting you exploit the RS3’s full agility without breaking a sweat.

Ride and Daily Driving

For the RS3, performance always comes first, and that priority shows in the ride. On smoother roads, it’s perfectly manageable for daily driving, but anyone seriously considering this car should take it on rougher streets to make sure it’s a good fit. The suspension can feel a bit choppy over uneven surfaces, and a passenger might not always appreciate the firm nature of the ride, especially on longer commutes or imperfect freeways.

That said, if you’re willing to accept the trade-off, the RS3 delivers in almost every other aspect. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is impressively smooth and intuitive, keeping the car in the ideal gear while powering up twisty mountain roads or city streets. The seats are highly adjustable and comfortable enough for long drives, while the car’s sharp handling and engaging throttle response make even mundane urban trips a joyful experience.

Fuel Economy

The EPA estimates for the RS3 are 19 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, though those numbers tend to drop quickly once you start pressing the throttle—which, let’s be honest, you will. This car practically begs for a heavy right foot.

In terms of rivals, the RS3 occupies a unique space. Its compact size and standard quattro all-wheel drive make it a standout among hot hatches and performance compacts. The closest competitor might be the VW Golf R, but it falls short by a cylinder and a chunk of horsepower. Fuel-conscious drivers might appreciate the Golf R’s slightly better EPA numbers of 22/31/25 mpg, but again—if you’re drawn to cars like the RS3, that right foot rarely stays light.

Verdict & Pricing

With a starting price of $66,100 for 2026 models, the Audi RS3 is certainly on the pricier side for a compact performance car. By comparison, the Volkswagen Golf R starts at $47,100. If budget is a concern, the Golf R is an excellent alternative—comfortable on bumpy roads and practical as a daily driver.

However, if $66,100 fits your budget and a firm suspension isn’t a dealbreaker, the RS3 is a gem. Even without optional packages, the car comes loaded with everything you really need.

The RS3 delivers some of the feistiest driving dynamics in a small car, and while adaptive suspension would make it even closer to perfect, that upgrade adds both weight and cost. We’d rather enjoy the car’s phenomenal drivetrain as it comes. For all-wheel-drive thrills in a compact package, the RS3 remains best in class. It’s a sophisticated car, but the bottom line is simple: it’s an absolute joy to drive.

2025 Audi RS3: 26 FAQs and Answers

1. What engine does the 2025 Audi RS3 have?

The 2025 RS3 features a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five engine, known for its unique sound and high-revving performance.

2. How much horsepower and torque does the 2025 RS3 produce?

The RS3 produces approximately 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, providing thrilling acceleration for a compact car.

3. What is the 0-60 mph acceleration time for the RS3?

The 2025 RS3 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 3.8 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars in its class.

4. What type of transmission does the 2025 RS3 use?

It comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that allows for rapid gear changes and smooth performance.

5. Does the RS3 feature all-wheel drive?

Yes, the RS3 comes with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system for improved traction, handling, and stability in various conditions.

6. How does the RS3 handle compared to previous models?

The RS3 has refined suspension tuning and improved chassis rigidity, providing sharper cornering and more responsive handling than previous generations.

7. What is the top speed of the 2025 Audi RS3?

The electronically limited top speed is 155 mph, but with optional packages, it can reach up to 174 mph.

8. How efficient is the fuel economy on the RS3?

Fuel economy averages around 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, which is competitive for a high-performance compact car.

9. Does the RS3 have adjustable driving modes?

Yes, it offers Audi Drive Select, allowing drivers to switch between modes such as Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual, affecting throttle response, steering, and suspension.

10. How does the suspension perform on rough roads?

The adaptive RS suspension smooths out bumps while maintaining precise handling, making it comfortable for daily driving and capable on twisty roads.

11. What are the exterior design updates for the 2025 RS3?

The 2025 RS3 features aggressive front and rear styling, a wider stance, new LED lighting, larger air intakes, and sporty RS-specific details.

12. What interior features and technology are standard?

The interior includes the Audi Virtual Cockpit, MMI touchscreen, sport seats, premium materials, and standard connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

13. How comfortable are the seats for long drives?

Sport seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for longer trips, especially in the standard leather/Alcantara combination.

14. Does the RS3 have a digital cockpit or infotainment system?

Yes, the Audi Virtual Cockpit is fully digital, customizable, and integrates navigation, performance metrics, and entertainment features seamlessly.

15. What are the cargo and trunk space options?

The RS3 is a compact sedan with a trunk around 10.7 cubic feet, suitable for daily use but limited for larger cargo.

16. What safety features come standard on the 2025 RS3?

Standard safety includes multiple airbags, stability control, traction control, ABS, and collision avoidance systems.

17. Are there advanced driver-assistance systems available?

Yes, options include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assistance features.

18. Does the RS3 include parking sensors or cameras?

Yes, it comes with front and rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera is standard, with optional 360-degree cameras available.

19. What is the starting price of the 2025 Audi RS3?

The starting MSRP is expected to be around $57,000, depending on optional packages and regional pricing.

20. Are there optional packages or trims available?

Yes, Audi offers packages for technology, premium sound, driver assistance, and aesthetic upgrades, allowing customization of performance and luxury features.

21. How does the RS3 compare in value to competitors like BMW M2 or Mercedes-AMG A35?

The RS3 offers a competitive blend of performance, technology, and interior quality, often priced similarly to BMW M2 and AMG A35 while providing unique Quattro AWD advantages.

22. What are the maintenance and warranty details?

Audi offers a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and 4 years of roadside assistance. Maintenance intervals are recommended by the manufacturer for optimal performance.

23. Is the RS3 practical for daily driving?

Yes, it balances sporty performance with everyday usability, featuring comfortable seats, modern infotainment, and manageable size for city driving.

24. How does the RS3 perform in winter or slippery conditions?

Quattro all-wheel drive ensures stable traction on snow and ice, and selectable driving modes allow adaptation to slippery conditions.

25. What makes the RS3 unique among small performance cars?

The RS3 combines the compact size of a small sedan with a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, Quattro AWD, and high-performance tuning, offering a unique driving experience.

26. Are there performance upgrades or aftermarket options for the RS3?

Yes, aftermarket options include performance exhausts, tuning chips, suspension upgrades, and cosmetic enhancements to personalize both performance and appearance.