An extensive upgrade for a successful model: The car with which Audi established the premium compact class in 1996, the A3, is sportier, more comfortable, and more digital than ever, thanks to its more progressive design, significantly extended standard equipment, and new materials and offers. Apps that can be used directly in the vehicle display, selectable daytime running light signatures, and the ability to add vehicle functions on demand any time enable a high degree of customization. The A3 allstreet, the distinctive crossover of the A3 family, is new to the market. With its characteristic off-road look, three centimeters of extra ground clearance compared to the A3 Sportback, and a raised seat position, the vehicle offers an SUV like driving experience combined with high functionality.

The Audi A3 heads into the 2025 model year with a sportier look, new design elements, and digital features. In addition to selectable daytime running light signatures, the ability to flexibly purchase vehicle functions any time ensures a high degree of personalization. In addition, the standard equipment has been significantly expanded and new materials have been used for enhanced comfort.

Sportier than ever: the exterior

More dynamic - more progressive - more emotional: This is how the A3 Sportback and Sedan present themselves following the model upgrade. The hexagonal, frameless Singleframe features a new structure that is noticeably flatter and wider. It dominates the front end and, in addition to the large angular side air intakes, clearly symbolizes the compact models' sporty character. The striking front spoiler connects the two and makes the Audi A3 appear lower. The same is true of the rear, which is sportier than ever with a new bumper and distinctive diffuser. The progressive design elements are particularly effective with the S line exterior, as they are partly inspired by the RS models.The expressive exterior colors District Green, Ascari Blue, and Progressive Red further strengthen the sporty look.

The Audi A3 allstreet is the distinctive crossover in the A3 family. With its characteristic off-road look, three centimeters more ground clearance than the A3 Sportback, and the raised seating position, the vehicle offers an SUV-like driving experience combined with high functionality. Thanks to the seamless integration of apps into the infotainment system, the ability to flexibly add vehicle functions, as well as a comprehensive range of connect services, the A3 allstreet is digitally connected.

"At very first glance, the Audi A3 allstreet stands out from the rest of the A3 family," says Stephan Fahr-Becker, Team Leader of Exterior Design at AUDI AG. "As a crossover in the premium compact class, it has a completely unique look. The aim was to use specific design elements to emphasize the vehicle's higher ground clearance even more."

Off-road character for a confident look

This goal was achieved, among other things, through a vertical emphasis of the matte black Singleframe. The large octagonal radiator grille with its honeycomb structure sits higher than on the A3 Sportback, bringing the crossover closer to the Q models. Unique to the allstreet, three grooves at the front and rear enhance the off-road character. At the front, the beading is integrated into the distinctive spoiler lip, which are reminiscent of a skid plate, and at the rear into the diffuser as part of the robustly designed rear bumper. The rear also echoes the design of the trapezoidal air intakes: Their high-contrast double frame in Selenite Silver and Manhattan Gray creates a strong contrast, lending the Audi A3 allstreet a powerful appearance. The same applies to the dark rocker panel trims and the trim in the lower door areas. They visualize the increased ground clearance and also emphasize the vehicle's length. The standard roof rails further tighten the roofline. At the same time, the wide wheel arch trims in Manhattan Gray visually shorten the overhangs. This gives the A3 allstreet a sporty, robust look. Series-standard 17-inch wheels are housed in the wheel arches, making them one dimension larger than on the A3 Sportback. Wheels in 18- and 19-inch diameter are available as an option.

With a host of new features, the Audi S3 is more than just a product upgrade: Increased output, a torque splitter, and other technology highlights ensure strong performance and agile handling. Visually, the compact model reflects its increased dynamics with an expressive front design, a sporty diffuser, and a four-pipe performance exhaust system. The Audi S3 will be available at dealerships as a Sportback and as a sedan in the second quarter of 2024. Price: from 55,600 euro.

More performance: 2.0 TFSI with 333 PS

With 245 kW (333 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, the S3 is more powerful than ever. As part of the product upgrade, the 2.0 TFSI receives an increase in output of 23 PS and 20 Nm more torque. The result is confident pulling power and strong acceleration. The S3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds. Maximum torque is available in a wide rev range between 2,100 and 5,500 rpm. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine and transmission also receive a sportier tuning: When at a steady speed and at low to medium acceleration in the part-load range, the preloaded turbocharger keeps at a constant rpm. In combination with the throttle valve, which is opened during overrun mode, this improves performance. The seven-speed S tronic now enables a more spontaneous take off, thanks to higher starting torque. This is achieved by compressing the clutch pack of the respective clutch more strongly. In addition, the shift time for gearshifts under full load has been halved and engine speeds are increased under partial load when the transmission is set to D which results in very good responsiveness.

More driving dynamics: quattro drive system with torque splitter

Following the RS3, the torque splitter is now also available in the S3, increasing both agility and stability. This technology enables fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels. The torque splitter uses an electronically controlled multiple disk clutch on each drive shaft to optimally distribute the torque between the rear wheel on the inside and the outside of the curve - depending on the driving situation and the chosen Audi drive select mode.

More emotion: Audi drive select mode dynamic plus

Audi drive select offers six distinct modes for a wide range of driving experiences - from an emphasis on comfort to highly dynamic. In addition to the familiar profiles (auto, comfort, dynamic, individual, and efficiency), the model upgrade for the S3 features the new dynamic plus mode, which - as the name suggests - offers especially high driving dynamics. To this end, as much torque as possible reaches the rear axle and the torque splitter mainly sends to the rear wheel on the outside of the curve, resulting in a tendency to oversteer. The electronic stabilization control (ESC) is automatically active in sport mode. Modest interventions by the ESC system ensure an increased and even more emotional driving experience on surfaces with different friction coefficients. The engine and transmission have also been tuned specifically for dynamic plus mode. Compared to the dynamic mode, the idle speed of the 2.0 TFSI has increased by 200 rpm to 1,300 rpm to improve off-the-line performance further. The throttle response is even more direct. In addition to shorter gearshifts, the transmission also contributes to increased dynamics with later upshifts and earlier downshifts.

More precision: suspension optimizations

Wishbones with stiffer bearings and new pivot bearings that allow more negative wheel camber ensure an improved steering response and increased lateral control, which means more grip and dynamics in corners. Fittingly, the optimized progressive steering helps the S3 take corners even more precisely. Especially in the middle position, the steering, with its angle-dependent ratio, is more centered, which improves handling. The S sports suspension comes as standard in the S3 models. It lowers the body by 15 mm compared to the A3. The same applies to the optional S sport suspension with adaptive dampers, which has been specially tuned for the torque splitter and the respective Audi drive select modes. A new generation of the electronic stabilization control is also used. Wheel-selective torque control, which selectively brakes the wheels on the inside of the curve slightly while cornering, has also been further developed, as have been the traction and deceleration behavior. Overall, the S3-specific tuning of the suspension control systems results in dynamic turn in and driving behavior. The improved handling goes hand in hand with improved stability at the limit.

More grip: two new 19-inch tires

The Audi S3 comes as standard with 18-inch 225/40 tires. Two 19-inch 235/35 tires are available as an option, including performance tires with optimized dry handling and improved braking behavior. Completely new to the range: sports tires from Falken. They offer remarkably high grip and precise track stability, especially on dry roads. In addition, the Falken Label D tires feature extremely precise handling across the entire speed range.

More deceleration: larger brake disks

The increased driving dynamics mean increased demand on the brakes. For this reason, the model upgrade for the S3 has been equipped with larger ventilated brake disks on the front axle, which are perforated to provide a visual highlight. The 18-inch steel brake now measures 357 mm in diameter and, at 34 mm, is four mm thicker than before.

The two-pistons calipers at the front are new too. They further improve braking performance, as do larger pads and larger friction surface of the disks, which have a significantly higher thermal and thus also a higher load capacity.

More expressiveness: progressive design

With the model upgrade, the Audi S3 has an even sportier and tauter appearance. The hexagonal, frameless Singleframe features a new structure that is noticeably flatter and wider. L-shaped design elements accentuate the voluminous grille that, along with the large, angular side air intakes, highlights the S3's dynamic character. A striking front spoiler, with two vertical struts inspired by motorsport, connects the two and further lowers the S3 visually.

A new bumper also makes the rear look more dynamic than ever. The structure of the Singleframe with its distinctive L-wings is reflected in the glossy black rear apron above the diffuser. It is divided into two parts for an S specific design that looks particularly sporty when combined with the vertical side reflectors that are a design feature of RS models. The dynamic appearance is rounded out by four tailpipes, another characteristic S-model feature. The optional performance exhaust system, which delivers a more voluminous sound, features a titanium silencer.

The vehicle's progressive design is further accentuated by new expressive metallic finishes, including District Green, Ascari Blue, and Progressive Red. For the first time, Daytona Gray is also available in a matte finish.

More variety: up to four different daytime running light signatures

Like the redesigned Singleframe, the lighting design is significantly flatter, emphasizing the width of the Audi S3. The 24-pixel elements that make up the digital daytime running lights in the LED and Matrix LED headlights are now arranged in three rows on the upper edge of the housing. For the first time in A3 series models, it is now possible to select and switch between up to four digital daytime running light signatures in the MMI. "This offers our customers a higher degree of personalization. They can change the expression of their model at any time. The signatures interpret self-confidence and agility in different ways," says Cesar Muntada, Head of Design Light Experience at AUDI AG. "This is also true for the coming home home/leaving home scenarios, which were designed individually for each signature." The tail lamps also feature a new rear light design and new staging of the coming home/leaving home function.

More charisma: sharpened interior

To match the more striking exterior, the interior has also been significantly sharpened. There are quite a few alterations here - from the shifter design and air vents to the decorative fabric inlays and new interior lighting. All these elements show precision in detail and emphasize the vehicle's progressive and technical appearance.

The standard ambient light package plus in the S3 adds accents in the storage compartment in front of the shifter, on the doors, and in the footwell. With the model upgrade, the center console and cup holder now also feature contour lighting. One eye-catching new design element is the fabric panel in the front doors that was laser-cut 300 times. Its five segments are backlit by a light source in the door panel. The different sizes of the elements create a dynamic flow of light - which is also apparent when locking and unlocking the vehicle. This makes the illuminated fabric panel a unique design experience.

The interior of the S3 models features dark colors with a few silver accents. A black roof lining, stainless steel pedals, illuminated door sills with aluminum inserts featuring the S logo, and aluminum-style interior trim emphasize the vehicle's sporty character. Artificial leather armrests and two-zone comfort air conditioning come as standard. Flattened at the bottom, the three-spoke sports contour leather steering wheel features multifunction buttons and new chrome-plated steering wheel paddles. Sports seats with integrated headrests and pronounced side bolsters provide enhanced lateral support. In addition to Dinamica microfiber, a new technical textured fabric is available for the decorative inlays, as are aluminum and carbon fiber.

More functionality: integration of apps and functions on demand

The S3 is digital and connected - thanks to numerous connect services, functions on demand, and a store for apps. In addition to DAB+ digital radio and the 10.1-inch touch display, the Audi virtual cockpit, and an inductive smartphone charger all come as standard. In addition to the two front USB C charging ports in the center console, there are two additional ports in the rear as standard.

Other optional features include MMI navigation plus, along with the complete connect portfolio and access to the store for apps, which allows the driver to use a wide range of applications right on the vehicle display. The selected apps are installed in the S3's infotainment system - without taking a detour via the user's smartphone. Users can also interact with their apps via voice command. Functions on demand ensures a high degree of flexibility. A total of five individual infotainment and comfort functions can be added online via the myAudi app, even after the vehicle has been purchased.

Audi Sport has heightened the senses of the RS3. With the upgrade, the compact top model, which represents maximum performance, will become even sportier. This is visible at first glance: The strong lines at the front, the wheels in motorsport design, and the RS bucket seats visually enhance the dynamics, acoustically underscored by the deep-throated roar of the five-cylinder engine with its signature firing sequence. The 2.5 TFSI, combined with the optimized chassis setup and new tires, propels the RS3 around corners even more spirited. The new lap record on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife confirms this. Drivers can feel the increased driving dynamics and the high-quality materials, which exude the highest quality and make the Audi RS3 an experience for the senses.

SEEING: sporty, striking design visually evokes performance

After its product upgrade, the Audi RS3 has a significantly sportier appearance. The dominant feature of the assertive front design is the hexagonal Singleframe with a striking border. Flatter and considerably broader than before, it emphasizes the dynamics of the compact sports car with its voluminous rhombus-pattern grille. The same goes for the two functional side air intakes - accentuated by vertical black blades - and the three apertures above the front splitter, which now spans the entire vehicle breadth and lets the RS3 sit even lower - reminiscent of the Audi Sport quattro S1 Pikes Peak from 1987. With redesigned daytime running lights, the headlights also accentuate the car's performance. The digital signature, which displays a checkered flag in the RS3, comprises 24 elements. Furthermore, in combination with the matrix LED headlights, drivers can choose between three additional daytime running light designs in the MMI touch display for the first time.

The rear of the RS3 also features references to motorsport and has a much stronger presence than before. Vertical side reflectors continue the design theme of the air intakes at the front. The large functional RS-specific diffuser incorporates a red reflector in its center and, on its sides, the two oval tailpipe trims of the RS exhaust system, which look even larger in their black frames.

Like the headlights, the taillights also feature a new graphic: Arrows that dynamically light up from inside to out with the coming home/ leaving home function embody the progressive taillight design.

The expressive exterior is accentuated by the RS-specific exterior colors Kyalami Green and Kemora Gray, the new metallic paints Ascari Blue and Progressive Red, and, for the first time, Daytona Gray in a matt finish. The Singleframe and diffuser have a black finish, with a choice of high-gloss or matt. Continuing this theme, the RS3 comes with matt-black 19-inch aluminum cast wheels in a 5-Y-spoke design as standard. Optionally, the rims are available in the motorsport design familiar from the RS3 performance edition, with ten striking cross spokes, either in matt dark gray or in glossy metallic black in bicolor design. Even more individuality is offered by the carbon and high-gloss black packages, which adorn the front air intakes, the side skirts, and the blade above the diffuser. These are complemented by wing mirror covers in body color, black, or carbon.

Rich, dark interior with flat-top and flat-bottom steering wheel and RS bucket seats

In the interior, too, which is dominated by dark color tones, everything is geared for performance, with the new steering wheel, RS sport or bucket seats, carbon features, and sporty displays. Flattened above and below, the steering wheel has a substantially sportier look. Whether in perforated leather as standard or optional Dinamica with 12 o'clock marker in accent color, it fits proper to the hand when cornering the RS3 around sharp bends. Meanwhile, the optional RS bucket seats give even better support. The seat center panel with RS honeycomb stitching is made of the microfiber fabric Dinamica, which is combined with Pearl Nappa leather on the side bolsters. Beneath the headrest, the black tapered insert features a large RS badge and, like the matt carbon rear of the seat backrest, emphasizes the sportiness of the RS3.

New light features, effect paint, and carbon

The standard contour and ambient lighting illuminate the new design features: the storage box in front of the flatter-designed shifter, the center console with cup holders, and the doors. A delightful night-time feature is the so-called planar lighting, whereby a light source in the door panel back-lights hundreds of lasered rhombus shapes of various sizes, which dynamically light up when locking and unlocking the RS3. This underscores the sporty-evocative design. The door handles, air vents as well as the cover clip of the steering wheel and the shift paddles are finished in an anthracite effect paint, which shimmers according to the light conditions. In addition to the standard two-piece version in palladium grey with carbon insert, there is also a one-piece RS-specific trim strip in matt carbon and a new variant in black Dinamica as decor inlays. Furthermore, the microfiber material is available to order for the door and center armrests.

The design packages in red and green add touches of color to the seat belts, seat shoulders, and air vents. Additionally, the contrast stitching on the seats, center armrest, door armrests, steering wheel, and the 12 o'clock marker is done in the respective color. The same goes for the floor mats in black velour, which are also adorned by RS lettering.

RS displays with focus on performance

The 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus with Sport, Performance, and Runway views was already standard. In Runway mode, speed is visualized in reverse order, with the highest revs in the foreground and idling speed in the background. These features are now joined by the new rev counter, which prominently displays the revolutions per minute in the center of the instrument cluster. In addition, there are displays for power output, torque, g-forces, acceleration, and lap times. In manual transmission mode, the RS-specific blinking shift indicator changes the rpm display from green to yellow to red, motorsports-style, to indicate the ideal time to change gears. On top of this, the temperature ranges of coolant, torque splitter, brakes, engine oil and transmission oil are shown in color on the 10.1-inch touch display in the instrument panel. Optionally, tire pressures can also be displayed. Furthermore, the RS3 now features an app store with many applications that can be used directly on the vehicle display.

The selected contents are installed on the RS3 infotainment system - independently of the smartphone.

HEARING: five-cylinder engine with more distinctive sound

The Audi RS3 is powered by the legendary 2.5 TFSI engine from Audi Sport with 294 kW (400 PS) and maximum torque of 500 Newton meters. This means the RS3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 290 km/h. Numerous motorsport successes make the award-winning five-cylinder engine one of the most evocative at Audi and make driving the RS3 an incomparable experience. In particular this is due to its unique sound, which is based on the signature 1-2-4-5-3 firing sequence. Adjacent and non-adjacent cylinders fire alternately providing a forceful rhythm and character, suitably orchestrated by the twin RS exhaust system with variable flap control. Press the red-ringed engine start/stop button, and the throaty sound of the five-cylinder engine rings out - more voluminous and even more distinctive in the Audi drive select modes dynamic, RS Performance, and RS Torque Rear. In addition, the exhaust flap control was optimized in the rpm range between 2,200 and 3,500 revolutions. In this way, the five-cylinder generates a consistent and fuller-bodied sound no matter which mode is selected. Audi Sport thus enhances the emotional driving experience in the top model of the A3 family - especially in conjunction with the optional RS Sport exhaust system.

FEELING: Enhanced vehicle dynamics through optimized cornering

For proof that the RS3 is fast on straights, we need only look at its acceleration stats, which continue to outstrip those of its core competitors. Cornering, by contrast, is difficult to express in numbers. The driving feel is much more important here. So much so, in fact, that Frank Stippler set a new lap record on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.

The Audi Sport racing and development driver set a time of 7:33.123 minutes, beating the previous record in this class by more than five seconds. His success means the RS3 is once again the fastest compact car on the 20.832-kilometer race track in the Eifel.

The basis for the impressively high driving dynamics is the interaction of the torque splitter with its fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, electronic stability control, wheel-selective torque control (brake torque vectoring), and the adaptive dampers of the RS sport suspension. These components are relevant to lateral dynamics and are networked in the modular driving dynamics controller, where data synchronization occurs. Thanks to a further developed algorithm, they react even more acutely to the respective driving situations. Depending on the Audi drive select mode chosen, the driver can make the RS3 more agile earlier and in a more controlled manner. When the coefficient of friction is low, the interaction of these systems also ensures increased stability.

Higher cornering speeds

The RS3 now performs even better in bends, avoids understeer at the entrance to the corner, and turns in more willingly thanks to fine-tuning - including to brake torque vectoring. Thanks to the finely dosed brake interventions on the inside wheels, the compact sports car follows the corner's radius more precisely than before, both in under partial load and on overrun, and it can be positioned earlier and better for exiting the curve from the apex. In other words, the driver can accelerate the RS3 sooner and steer it through the bend at higher speeds. The increased lateral dynamics are particularly impressive on the racetrack - in full intensity with ESC deactivated.

Evolved oversteer

The improved algorithm is also driving an evolution in oversteer. Previously, oversteer was generated primarily by increasing the load requirement - in other words, stepping on the throttle. Now, oversteer is easier to initiate in the RS3 via the steering angle. This allows the driver to obtain the same drift angle faster.

Quick access via steering wheel button

If you want to activate the Performance mode, which is specially designed for the racetrack, you can do so by pressing the left satellite button. The button with the checkered flag icon is new, as is the red RS button on the right steering wheel spoke, which offers quick access to RS Individual mode.

New standard tire with high grip

A new standard C-rated tire provides enhanced everyday comfort with higher lateral support. Specially tuned for the RS3, it offers excellent grip on both dry and wet surfaces and precise handling over the entire speed range. The Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tires are still available as an option.

SMELLING: The unmistakable smell of excellence

The RS3 meets premium standards not only when it comes to its visual and tactile qualities: One of the most subtle yet most immediate experiences when buying a car is the aroma that greets your nose when you open the doors of your new Audi for the first time. Quality you cannot see but which is a constant companion.

So that the driving experience in the sporty compact model becomes an experience for all the senses, Audi also has exceptional standards for smell in the interior. The aroma comprises natural smells of high-grade materials, such as the high-quality leather and the pleasant inherent odor of selected polymers.

RS sports seats of Fine Nappa leather or the new RS bucket seats with high Pearl Nappa leather content and the standard leather steering wheel diffuse an odor of nature and authenticity in the RS3. To this end, various quality measures must be implemented in the manufacturing process - from the selection of the leather to the tanning agents to the finish. All interior components - some 200 per vehicle - are chemically analyzed and evaluated. They are heated in a special chamber, then the air is analyzed. This lasts two to three hours per component. Once the testing of all individual components has been completed, the interplay of the various materials is tested in the Audi itself. After all, this is where all the materials come together, and they should smell nice in combination - under all climatic conditions. For example, heaters fitted to the outside simulate temperatures on hot summer days. The resulting odors are evaluated by a team of five chemists in relation to their type and intensity, ensuring that the characteristic new car smell of an Audi meets its customers' high standards.

TASTING: a recipe for success for over ten years

Audi Sport gives the RS3 many ingredients for full enjoyment, such as the five-cylinder turbo engine, torque splitter, new standard tires, and semi-slicks. As all good chefs know, we eat with our eyes first. The RS3 has been garnished with wheels in motorsport design, carbon and black packages, RS bucket seats, and a steering wheel flattened at the top and bottom. The RS3 is a recipe for success.

From the beginning, the compact sports car has stood for innovation and excitement at the highest level. When the first generation went out to dealers in the spring of 2011, the RS3, with its powerful 340 PS five-cylinder engine, had no competitors. The bumpers, sills, and wheels clearly distinguished the first RS3, which at the time was available only as a five-door hatchback, from the A3. Moreover, it was impressively fast and offered driving dynamics with maximum precision and assurance.

The second generation, which rolled off the production lines from 2015 to 2020, saw a sedan added to the portfolio in 2017. With its signature 1-2-4-5-3 firing sequence, the 2.5 TFSI matured into an RS3 perennial - initially with 367 PS and then with 400 PS after the product upgrade in 2017. The faster-shifting seven-gear dual-clutch transmission, in conjunction with quattro all-wheel drive, ensured maximum driving enjoyment.

The third generation of the RS3 Sportback and the second generation of the RS3 Sedan were launched in 2021. With 400 PS and an increase in torque to 500 Nm, the five-cylinder engine was more powerful than ever before and beat all competitors for acceleration. Thanks to the first-ever torque splitter used in an Audi, which replaced the previous rear axle differential with the upstream multi-plate clutch package, it also attained a new level of lateral dynamics.

To celebrate the 50-year anniversary of the legendary five cylinder engine, Audi Sport is unveiling an exclusive special-edition model: the RS3 competition limited. With 750 examples to be built, it stands for a five-decade-long success story from the brand with four rings. Its inline five makes the brawny compact unique in its segment, combining extraordinary performance with an unmistakable sound. When driven, the RS3 competition limited lives up to its sporting pedigree thanks to a coilover suspension and a stiffer rear stabilizer. Visually, extra carbon elements leave no doubt about its credentials. Combined with the exclusive interior, the special edition evokes pure emotion.

A legacy that began in 1976 with the second-generation Audi 100 is now reaching new heights with the Audi RS3 competition limited. To mark "50 years of five cylinders," Audi Sport is endowing the RS3 with numerous upgrades that will make the special edition highly sought after by collectors. Limited to 750 examples, the RS3 competition limited exudes exclusivity from every detail.

Exterior: sharpened front, plenty of carbon, and subtle details

Sportiness informs all visual features of the Audi RS3 - starting with the voluminous Singleframe that appears to form a unit with the air intakes at either side, and the striking front lip. This area has been sharpened even further on the RS3 competition limited. Together with badges boasting heritage colors at front and rear, it stands for maximal individuality. The special edition combines expressive design with matte carbon elements. These include two new canards on either front corner, which are arranged on top of each other and are made of carbon to match the vertical blades of the air curtains. Combined with the now split front lip, which is fitted below the intakes, this makes the special edition appear even wider. The RS3 competition limited is seemingly crouched as if ready to pounce.

Imposing 19-inch wheels with ten cross spokes in Neodymium gold matte fill the arches. Mirror caps, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, all in matte carbon, as well as the matte carbon trim above the large functional diffuser complete the model's cooly technical appearance. Partial matting on the rear side window to show the model name underlines it even further.

The darkened matrix LED headlights are also unique to the special edition. When locking or unlocking the car, their segments illuminate in a 1-2-4-5-3 pattern - a nod to the five-cylinder engine's firing order.

Three exterior colors can be specified. Offered alongside the best-selling Daytona gray and the new Glacier white matte, the exclusive Malachite green finish is especially eye-catching. This iconic color is reminiscent of the Audi Sport quattro that provided the basis for a golden age of rallying with five-cylinder power.

Five-cylinder engine: strong performance and distinctive sound

Back in 1983, the Audi Sport quattro developed 225 kW (306 PS) and 350 Nm from 2.1 liters of displacement. Now, the inline five-cylinder engine of the Audi RS3 comes with 2.5 liters of displacement and boasts 294 kW (400 PS) and 500 Nm. Coming curtesy of an engine that is the only one of its kind in this segment, these figures lend the RS3 competition limited extraordinary performance. The model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 290 km/h. Along the way, the unmistakable sound of the five-cylinder turbo engine provides extra emotion. It stems from the firing order 1-2-4-5-3. This means that the engine's cylinders ignite in an alternating pattern - some that are next to each other and some that are further apart.

With its fully variable flap control, the RS sports exhaust system broaden the spectrum of the exhaust note while reduced insulation around the firewall means the engine sound reaches the occupants even more directly. The flaps open earlier in the Audi drive select modes dynamic, RS Performance, and RS Torque Rear, meaning that the car's throaty sound is even more pronounced than in other modes.

Driving dynamics: coilover suspension and stiffer rear stabilizer

For the first time, the Audi RS3 features a coilover suspension including a new rear stabilizer. In combination with the torque splitter and the standard ceramic brakes, the limited edition offers distinctly sporty handling. The coilover suspension was specially developed and tuned for the RS3 competition limited. The materials used in the twin-tube shock absorbers' construction - stainless steel at the front and aluminum at the rear - were chosen for stiffness, and their increased volumes help cool the hydraulic fluid. The front shock absorbers have external reservoirs. Better cooling means the dampers perform consistently, even under high loads. At the rear, larger diameter damper tubes with thicker piston rods compared to the standard model provide more stable mounting and rigidity.

High flexibility and a wide spread in driving characteristics are offered by three-way adjustable shock absorbers: High-speed and low-speed compression can be changed separately and rebound can be adjusted too. As a result, the driver can customize the comfort and performance of the vehicle to suit their personal requirements, driving style, and the road conditions. A setup manual for adjusting compression and rebound as well as the needed tools are on board the RS3 competition limited.

Adjusting compression means changing how quickly the shock absorber shortens. It works by altering the oil flow inside the cylinder and thus changing the damping force that works against the suspension as it loads up. Low-speed compression changes how the suspension reacts to forces like those occurring during cornering and significantly influences tire grip. It can be adjusted in 12 steps using a dial. The further it is turned towards the "+" sign, the stiffer the damping and thus the setup. This maximizes lateral grip, leading to higher cornering speeds, more eager turn in, and thus more direct handling. The further the dial is turned towards the "-" sign, the lower the damping force. This makes for a more comfortable ride.

High-speed compression determines how the body reacts when suddenly high forces impact the chassis. This includes driving over bumps as well as rapid steering movements. It can be adjusted in 15 steps. Stiffer high-speed compression (turning the dial towards "+") means high-frequency vertical excitations are damped more, resulting in sharper feedback to the driver. As damping force is reduced (turning the dial towards "-"), the ride becomes more comfortable and the RS3 competition limited encounters imperfections in the road surface more smoothly.

The adjustable rebound offers even more variety for the driver to change the vehicle's reactions and handling. It controls how directly the body is linked to the road, which can be altered in 16 steps. High damping on rebound means the suspension decompresses more slowly; handling therefore becomes very precise and direct. Lower damping on rebound means the springs can expand more quickly, thus increasing ride comfort. Stability at the rear is further increased by a new tubular stabilizer with increased wall thickness. With a stiffness of 85 Newtons/millimeter (N/mm), it is stiffer than on the standard model. The spring rates at the back have been increased to 80 N/mm to match. As a result, the RS3 competition limited provides the perfect combination of directional stability, safety, and agility when accelerating out of a fast corner.

Complementing the additional aerodynamic elements at the front, the specific roof spoiler of the RS3 Sportback competition limited also positively influences driving dynamics. Those new elements reduce lift at both axles and were developed specially for the limited edition in the wind tunnel. On the sedan, the split chin spoiler and the canards improve balance between the front and rear axles. As the brawny compact agilely rounds corners, it is helped by the torque splitter with fully variable torque distribution at the rear as well as by brake torque vectoring. When turning in, torque is delivered to the outside wheel. At the same time, the inside wheel is braked slightly, positioning the RS3 competition limited to exit the bend perfectly. Like its RS3 brethren, the special edition has a confident stance on the road and is optionally equipped with Pirelli PZero Trofeo R semi slicks. Ceramic brakes with red calipers are always on hand to reign in the speed. They are both especially light and resistant to thermal fade.

Interior: exclusive design and iconic displays

The special model's exclusivity also becomes apparent when opening the doors, thanks to a color combination of black, Neodymium gold, and Ginger white. The door lighting projects the lettering "RS3 competition limited" with the same adorning the black floor mats, the cover below the headrests, and the trunk carpet. In the center console, a matte serial number in front of the shifter reflects the model's limited run and illustrates how special this vehicle truly is.

No matter how dynamic the cornering, driver and front passenger are perfectly held in place by highly contoured RS bucket seats. Their bolsters are covered in black leather, their centers fashioned in Dinamica microfiber colored Neodymium gold. The arm rests in the doors and center are also golden. Contrast stitching in Ginger white accentuates the cabin and underlines the diamond pattern on the seats.

Rear passengers also get a sense of the vehicle's exclusivity. The centers of their seats as well as their arm rests are covered in soft Dinamica in Neodymium gold with Ginger white contrast stitching. The front seats' matte carbon backs are large visual reminders of the model's sportiness.

At any event, the driver's seat is the best place to be and have everything under control. The 10.1-inch touch display in the instrument panel provides information about RS-specific performance parameters: the temperature ranges of the coolant, torque splitter, brakes, as well as engine and transmission oil are illustrated in color; tire pressure and temperature are also shown. To make finding the center position easier and help visualize the most minute steering inputs, the wheel - flattened at both the top and bottom - has a Ginger white mark at the top. Contrast stitching in the same color goes around its rim made of black Dinamica. The Audi virtual cockpit plus also features an exclusive design. When the Audi RS2 Avant debuted with the first RS five-cylinder engine in 1994, it had white instrument dials. Harking back to those, the digital instruments of the Audi RS3 competition limited also have a white background. They are joined by displays of the engine's current power and torque outputs, G forces, acceleration, and a lap timer. When launch control is used to fully exploit the turbocharged inline five's potential for acceleration, starting lights indicate the ideal moment to launch.

It's time to fasten your seatbelts! Reach for the Ginger white belts, press the start button to awaken five raucous cylinders and experience impressive driving dynamics. In the meantime - looking at the quattro badge in the matte carbon decor inlay - the front passenger will remember that Audi's quattro history has lasted almost as long as that of the legendary five-cylinder engine.

Pricing: one limited edition, two body styles, three colors

The RS3 competition limited is available as Sportback and Sedan. All vehicles for the German market are pre-specified and have extensive standard equipment. Both body styles feature matte carbon elements on the exterior, Neodymium gold wheels, and an exclusive interior with RS bucket seats, special digital dials, and consecutive numbering. Carbon is also found under the hood: the engine cover atop the five-cylinder impresses with its technical look. Dynamically, the RS3 competition limited is characterized by an adjustable coilover suspension, a stiffer rear stabilizer, the RS sport exhaust system, a top speed of 290 km/h, and ceramic brakes with red calipers. Three-zone climate control, seat heating, a Sonos sound system, numerous assistance systems, and rear privacy glass are also standard. Furthermore, the Sportback features comfort opening for the luggage compartment lid. Besides the in-demand color Daytona gray, the exclusive options Malachite green and Glacier white are available. The base price for the Sportback in Germany is 108,365 euros. The Sedan starts at 110,005 euros. European deliveries of the RS3 competition limited commence in mid-2026.

The base price for the Sportback in Germany is 108,365 euros