Refreshed Audi RS 3: Continuing to refine the super-hatch game

Refreshed Audi RS 3: Continuing to refine the super-hatch game

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At the extreme end of the Audi A3 range resides the formidable RS 3, which remains a proper performance hatchback that defies the industry trend towards downsizing. Its 2.5-litre TFSI engine continues to captivate enthusiasts, delivering brilliant power and performance. 

It entered its third iteration in Mzansi in 2022, and it immediately established itself as the premier super-hatch against its direct rival, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S. Currently, the facelifted variant holds the title of the fastest compact car around the Nurburgring, a record snatched from the BMW M2 Competition. 

The same car has finally shed its camouflage for the 2024 model year, bringing with it minor changes. However, many will agree that it didn't require a drastic update as it still maintained its fresh appearance.

Anyway, the changes appear subtle, but even with that, it’s worth mentioning that it gets a reworked grille flanked by pretty matrix LED headlights with selectable daytime running lights, a new front splitter, while the rear taillights get new graphics, and two side reflectors on the bumper. 

Buyers have the option to choose between metallic Ascari Blue and Progressive Red, alongside the existing Kyalami Green and Kemora Grey exterior shades. 

Moving inside, there is a new steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather as standard or optional Dinamica with a 12 o’clock marker in accent colour, RS Sport or optional carbon fibre bucket seats in Nappa leather for the side bolsters with microfibre for the centres, and matte carbon rear. As standard, the RS 3 comes fitted with a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit plus and a 10.1-inch touch-display instrument panel. 

One of the most distinct elements of the RS3 is its distinctive 5-cylinder engine. In this application, the TFSI engine continues unchanged with 294kW and 500Nm, directed to all-fours via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 0-100km/h time is dispatched in 3.8 seconds while the top speed is capped at 290km/h for both the hatchback and sedan body configurations. 

According to Audi, the RS 3 now has better cornering prowess and turns in more willingly thanks to fine-tuning. We can confirm that simply by judging its performance around the Green Hell. 

While the local arrival of the RS 3 remains unknown at this stage, the facelifted Audi RS 3 seems to be the best and most all-around impressive RS 3 that the brand has ever built. It’s poised to become yet another driver’s car, even in the face of strong competition. 

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