Audi is creating buzz ahead of the 2025 RS3 launch by breaking a new lap record at the Nürburgring. Audi Sport’s racing and development driver Frank Stippler achieved a remarkable time of 7 minutes and 33.123 seconds in the compact car class on the Nordschleife, surpassing the previous record set by BMW M2 racer Jörg Weidinger by over five seconds. The challenge is now on for BMW.
Stippler drove a pre-production version of the 2025 Audi RS3, which features the same 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine found in the current model. The engine’s growl remains intact, producing 395 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Impressively, the new RS3’s lap time outpaced its predecessor by seven seconds (previously 7:40.748) and outstripped the lighter Honda Civic Type R by 11 seconds (7:44.881). The Type R, however, still holds the front-wheel-drive record, while the RS3 benefits from Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive technology.
It’s also important to highlight that the 2025 RS3 was fitted with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tires, while the BMW M2, which previously held the Nürburgring compact record, used Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which could contribute to the time difference.
For the 2025 model, the RS3 will feature a refreshed exterior rather than a complete redesign. Yet, the front and rear have received some noticeable updates, even with the camouflage. Audi claims the chassis has been optimized for better cornering, featuring fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, new brake torque vectoring, and an RS sport suspension that includes optional adaptive dampers and ceramic brakes. Additionally, the vehicle dynamics controller has been enhanced to more effectively integrate driver actions and road conditions, which improves its responsiveness.
Stippler attributes the vehicle’s success to these enhancements, stating, “The new RS3 responds more readily at corner entry due to the fine-tuning, including brake torque vectoring, which lets you position the car better ahead of corner exit. This results in a lower steering angle from apex to exit, leading to reduced friction and earlier acceleration while maintaining momentum and speed on the straights.”
It’s heartening to see compact cars competing fiercely on the legendary Nürburgring in 2024. With the sedan segment losing ground to crossovers, the future seemed uncertain. However, Audi is steadfast in defending the compact sedan’s legacy. In Europe, the 2025 RS3 is expected to be available for orders in August, with showroom arrivals slated for October. An official release date or pricing for the U.S. market has yet to be confirmed but may occur later, possibly early next year.
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