Audi has once again demonstrated its engineering prowess by setting a new lap record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife with its pre-production RS 3. The compact sports sedan, powered by a near-extinct 5-cylinder engine, clocked an astonishing 7:33.123 minutes, cementing its position as the fastest compact car on the legendary track.
The record-breaking feat is a testament to the RS 3’s optimized handling and advanced technology. Key to this achievement is the car’s brake torque vectoring and fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, coupled with optional adaptive dampers. These enhancements ensure that the RS 3 not only handles with precision but also maintains superior stability at high speeds.
Under the hood, the RS 3 continues to impress with its 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, a hallmark of Audi’s engineering excellence. This powertrain delivers an impressive 395 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for the compact sedan. The engine’s performance is further complemented by 19-inch ceramic brakes and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tires, ensuring that the RS 3 can handle the demands of the Nürburgring with ease.
Audi Sport racing driver Frank Stippler, who piloted the RS 3 to its record-setting lap, highlighted the vehicle’s refined handling dynamics. “The new RS 3 turns in more willingly at corner entry thanks to fine-tuning, including brake torque vectoring, which allows the vehicle to be positioned earlier and better for corner exit from the apex. The result is a lower steering angle from apex to corner exit, leading to less friction and earlier acceleration, allowing you to carry more momentum and speed onto each subsequent straight,” Stippler explained.
The RS 3’s advanced suspension system, featuring RS sports suspension with adaptive damper control, played a crucial role in achieving this remarkable performance. The optimized chassis setup, combined with the powerful engine and cutting-edge braking system, creates a compact sports sedan that is not only fast but also incredibly agile.
Audi’s dedication to maintaining the 5-cylinder engine in the RS 3 underscores its commitment to preserving the brand’s legacy of performance and innovation. This powertrain, renowned for its unique sound and robust performance, continues to be a defining feature of the RS 3, making it a standout in its class.
The 2025 Audi RS 3 is set to go on sale at the end of August, with deliveries beginning in October. As anticipation builds for its market release, the RS 3 has already proven itself to be a force to be reckoned with on the track, further solidifying Audi’s reputation for producing high-performance vehicles.
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