Facelifted Audi RS3 Breaks Nürburgring Lap Record for Compact Cars

The facelifted Audi RS3 sets a new Nürburgring lap record at 7:33.123 minutes, surpassing the BMW M2 Coupe. Featuring a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine and extensive chassis refinements, the new RS3 debuts August 20, 2024.

Audi has teased the facelifted RS3 in an impressive way by setting a new lap record at the Nürburgring. A lightly camouflaged prototype of the Audi RS3 sedan completed the circuit in 7:33.123 minutes, surpassing the BMW M2 Coupe’s previous record and establishing a new benchmark for compact models on the iconic track. 

The pre-production prototype, driven by Audi Sport racing and development driver Frank Stippler, tackled the 20.832 km (12.9 mile) track. The new lap time of 7:33.123″ is a significant improvement, being over 7 seconds faster than the pre-facelifted Audi RS3’s 2021 record of 7:40.748″ and more than 5 seconds quicker than the BMW M2 Coupe’s record of 7:38.706″ set in August 2023.

Power and Performance Enhancements

The facelifted RS3 is equipped with the same turbocharged 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder engine, delivering 400 PS (394 hp) and 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque. This matches the European output of the previous model, while the North American version was slightly more powerful at 401 hp (299 kW / 407 PS). Audi Sport has hinted at the potential for even more power in future variants.

Chassis and Handling Improvements

The improved lap time highlights extensive refinements to the RS3’s chassis setup by Audi Sport engineers. Enhancements include optimized cornering behavior, fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, a brake torque vectoring system, RS sport suspension with optional adaptive dampers, 19-inch ceramic brakes, and an advanced driving dynamics controller algorithm. The prototype achieved the record lap on Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tires. 

Frank Stippler noted, «Thanks to the fine-tuning — including brake torque vectoring — the new RS3 turns more willingly at the entrance to the corner, which means that the vehicle can be positioned earlier and better for the exit of the corner. This leads to less friction and earlier acceleration, allowing for more momentum and speed onto each subsequent straight.»

Design and Upcoming Launch

Audi kept the RS3’s slightly redesigned body covered in Nürburgring-themed camouflage, though some updates are discernible, such as fresh LED graphics on the lighting units and redesigned bumpers. The front features revised aggressive intakes, and the rear diffuser is larger than before. 

The facelifted Audi RS3 will debut on August 20, 2024. Orders for the performance model will open in Europe this August, with first deliveries expected in October. The US launch is anticipated for the 2025 model year.