The wait is over… Audi Sport fans world-wide have been eagerly standing by for the release of the Audi RS3 8Y Facelift. Now, we’ve got our first glimpse of the new model that’s redefining performance and introducing a reimagined design language.
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Get ready for an adrenaline-fuelled driving experience like no other with the Audi RS3…
Audi RS3 8Y Facelift – New Features, Enhanced Power
Available for the first time ever in Daytona Gray Matt finish, this RS3 upgrade is a nod to the legendary models that came before it whilst designing itself as a top contender in the Audi Sport collection. At a top speed of 180 MPH, the classic 5-cylinder 2.5TFSi engine (400 PS) uses its signature 1-2-5-4-3 firing sequence to produce a powerful note, scored by the twin RS exhaust system with variable flap control. Furthermore, proving its capabilities (and for many surpassing expectations) the 2025 RS3 bested its predecessor by 7.3 seconds during a lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife!
Improved precession of the chassis control systems (partnered with the new standard tires surrounding the 10-spoke, motorsport design rims) makes way for higher cornering speeds that are complemented by the luxurious feel of the new flat-top and flat-bottom steering wheel – which has subsequently caused a dispute amongst the community! Additionally, evolved oversteer allows the driver to achieve those sharp turns without the need for increased load requirement.
Audi has also given other interior components a redesign. Carbon features, sporty displays, and RS Sport seats: all elements are crafted for performance. Initially, these carbon-backed bucket seats were not part of the UK market offering due to equipment differences in regional configurations. However, as part of the facelift’s updates, the UK models now include these seats as a £2,000 optional upgrade, praised for their combination of support, comfort, and aesthetics with honeycomb Alcantara trim. These seats feature carbon fiber rear panels and enhanced bolstering for improved support, catering to enthusiasts looking for a sportier experience. This upgrade complements the RS3’s dynamic appeal and can be selected during configuration of the vehicle.
Technological Innovation in the Audi RS3 8Y Facelift
Upon further exploration, we can see that the centre console has also undergone minor changes, along with the illuminated door cards. The shift from Bang & Olufsen sound systems to Sonos ones was also a topic of conversation between Audi fantatics way back in 2021-2022 when fans first started to notice this alteration. Some say that the Sonos systems lack presence and frequency response, others claim that the Bang & Olufsen speakers have muddy mid-range. But where do you stand on the matter?
Among the latest technological advancements from Audi is the new Technology Pack Pro. Available as an optional extra on the standard RS3 or Carbon Black, you can now enhance your RS3 Sportback with Matrix LED Highlights; Adaptive Cruise with Emergency Assist; Panoramic Sunroof; Comfort Key with SAFELOCK; and Electrically Adjustable Front Seats with Memory Function.
Exterior Evolution of the RS3
The composition of the exterior features are among the more prominent changes that Audi have made to the new RS3 model. With the considerably wider front bumper and side blades that have been pushed further apart, you may notice that the front end of the car appears to take inspiration from the RS6, whereas the previous model was closer to the old RS4. The addition of three openings above the front splitter also contributes to a wider appearance, giving the Audi RS3 8Y Facelift a more invasive stance.
One of the first things we noticed here at Automotive Addiction, along with many others, is the evident absence of the front RS3 badge on the now more angular, diamond-design grille. Much like the wheels, the rear end of the car also features motorsport easter eggs and shouts much louder than that of the previous model. The bold RS diffuser holds a red reflector in the centre and oval tailpipe trims of the RS exhaust system on its sides.
With the former RS3 models, owners had to choose between that sleek, carbon fibre exterior (Carbon Black) or the latest Audi technology (Vorsprung). Now, thanks to the introduction of the Carbon Vorsprung, loyal RS3 enthusiasts can get the best of both worlds. The RS details of this 2025 model include the side blades, rear diffuser insert, front spoiler, and the grille; on the Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung trims, this lustrous exterior styling is in Carbon and Black Gloss. The Carbon Vorsprung trim also features the Matrix LED Headlights which exhibit personalisable light signatures.
The Audi RS3 8Y Facelift Configuration
With the new RS3 configuration recently going live on the Audi website, no doubt pursuers of the Facelift model have began placing their orders. This newly-introduced configuration allows you to customise major aspects of your RS3 “8Y.5”, including the trim level: enabling you to choose the version that best reflects your preferred styling, driving experience, and equipment level. Other customisable elements include the body paint finish, seat upholstery, stitching, materials, and the technological features of your RS3.
Unlike the pre-facelift RS3, Audi’s 2025 iteration does not give buyers the option to add Y-Spoke Wheels, exclusive colour paintwork, or Carbon Ceramic Brakes to their configuration (not as of yet anyway, so let’s keep our fingers crossed!).
Standard vs. Carbon Black Trim
With a price difference of £4,650, what additional benefits does the Carbon Black specification hold over the standard RS3’s head?
10-Cross-Spoke Matt Grey Alloy Wheels: Darkened Matrix LED Headlights with Dynamic Light Sequencing and Dynamic Indicator • LED Rear Lights with Dynamic Light Design and Dynamic Indicators • Carbon Door Mirror Housing • RS Exterior Features in Carbon and Gloss Black • Carb Roof Spoiler • Engine Compartment Cover with Carbon Trim • Interior Inlay in Carbon Atlas Structure
Carbon Black vs. Carbon Vorsprung Trim
One rung up the ladder from Carbon Black is the all-new Carbon Vorsprung trim: combing track-inspired, carbon fibre exterior styling with the latest innovative technology that Audi has to offer. Having been priced £4,490 above Carbon Black, what extra benefits will Facelift seekers be enjoying in 2025 if they choose this specification?
Exterior Mirrors: Electrically Adjustable, Heated and Folding, Automatically Dimming on Both Sides, and with Memory Function • Comfort Key with SAFELOCK • Advances Key • Electrically Adjustable Front Sears with Memory Function for the Driver’s Seat and Door Mirrors • Adaptive Cruise Assist with Emergency Assist • Proactive Passenger Protection System for Front, Sides and Rear • Lange Change Assistant with Exit Warning System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert • Drive and Park Assist Package Pro and Protection and Warning System, Package Plus • Adaptive Suspension with Audi Drive Select • Top Speed Increase to 174 mph • RS-Specific Sport Suspension • 10-Cross-Spoke Black Metallic Alloy Wheels • Panoramic Glass Sunroof • Power Front Seats with Memory Function for the Driver Seat
New VS Previous Model Comparison
So what do you think? Have Audi developed a successful upgrade of the RS3, or do you prefer the previous?
