Audi’s high-performance inline five-cylinder hot hatch is seemingly preparing for one last lap, in what should be the hottest RS3 yet.
Audi has been spied testing what could become one of the most sought-after Audi Sport models yet.
An RS3 hatch spied testing at the Nurburgring in Germany points to a model that could become the last powered by Audi’s iconic inline five-cylinder engine.
Reports suggest Audi will upgrade the 2.5-litre engine to meet stringent Euro 7 emissions rules due in Europe late next year – to coincide with its fitment in a Volkswagen Golf R special edition – but it may not live long beyond that.
The special edition RS3 carries some subtle differences from a regular RS3, starting up front with aero canards seen sprouting from the brake cooling ducts on each side of the bumper.
The rear spoiler is also taller than the low-profile spoiler normally affixed at the top of the tailgate. Although not entirely obvious in the spy shots, carbon fibre is expected to be the material of choice for the new bodywork additions.
The 19-inch alloy wheel design is one of the available options already available for the RS3, though there’s every chance this may be swapped out for an alternate wheel design or a unique colour finish.
Visible behind the wheels are blue brake calipers, one of the available finishes for the regular RS3 when equipped with optional carbon-ceramic brakes.
The most interesting changes are those that can't be seen.
Speculation out of Europe suggests that for its final production appearance, Audi may turn up the wick on its 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine.
Currently rated at 294kW and 500Nm in Australia, Audi’s smallest RS performance engine falls short of chief rival, the 310kW/500Nm Mercedes-AMG A45.
A slightly more powerful RS3 Performance is available in overseas markets already, but even it only manages 299kW.
While the target output is still unknown, nor the tuning route Audi will take, it’s likely that power will be the focus of tuning changes with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission already near its torque ceiling with the current state of tune.
The lowered stance of the car spotted at the Nurburgring also suggests Audi will finesse the RS3 GT’s handling, although it remains to be seen if Audi will keep adaptive dampers or opt for a more track-focused manually adjustable setup.
Launch timing for the new model is not yet locked in, but an introduction in 2026 or 2027 looks most likely, and if the RS3 GT follows in the footsteps of the larger RS6 GT, production numbers are likely to be strictly limited.
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
