New Audi A3 and RS 3 Arrive in SA: More Style, Same Potent Performance
Audi's popular A3 and its fire-breathing RS 3 sibling have touched down in South Africa, sporting subtle but significant updates for 2025. The range promises a more athletic aesthetic, enhanced specifications, and the continuation of that legendary five-cylinder howl.
The A3 lineup, available in both Sportback (hatchback) and Sedan configurations, continues to offer a refined and premium compact car option. For now, the sole engine option is the familiar 35 TFSI – a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol unit delivering a respectable 110 kW and 250 Nm.
While not a powerhouse, this engine is known for its smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency, perfectly suited to urban commuting and longer journeys. Power is sent to the front wheels via a slick-shifting eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
Audi has streamlined the A3 trim levels, now offering just the S line and the new Black Edition. The S line already provides a sporty flavour with its specific bumpers and interior detailing, while the Black Edition takes it a step further with darkened exterior accents, including the grille and window surrounds, for a more aggressive, stealthy look.
Interior updates include new materials for added comfort, while the updated model receives exterior design refreshes to keep it modern. Pricing starts at R808,200 for the A3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic S line, and goes up to R834,500 for the A3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic Black Edition. The Sedan variants are priced at R823,200 for the S line and R849,500 for the Black Edition. The S3, featuring a 2.0-litre Turbo motor, is scheduled to arrive later this year, further expanding the model range.
For those who crave adrenaline, the RS 3 remains the undisputed king of the compact performance segment. The heart of this beast is Audi's iconic 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI engine, a powerplant that's as much about character as it is about outright power. With 294 kW and 500 Nm on tap, the RS 3 demolishes the 0-100 km/h sprint in a blistering 3.8 seconds, accompanied by that unmistakable five-cylinder warble.
Power is channeled to all four wheels via Audi's legendary quattro system and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 2025 facelift brings subtle styling tweaks to the RS 3, enhancing its already aggressive stance. The big news for South African enthusiasts is the introduction of the Carbon Edition.
This trim level, exclusive to our market, adds – although Audi SA hasn't given specific details on the trim – an extra layer of visual menace and exclusivity. Interestingly it costs more than the larger and more powerful RS4 Avant. Chassis control system tweaks have also been made.
Pricing for the RS 3 begins at R1,498,200 for the Sportback TFSI quattro S tronic, rising to R1,591,900 for the Sportback TFSI quattro Carbon Edition. The Sedan variants are priced at R1,528,200 and R1,610,700 respectively.
All A3 and RS 3 models come standard with Audi's 5-year/100,000 km Freeway Plan, providing comprehensive service and maintenance coverage. Additionally, the RS3 models benefit from a 1-year/unlimited kilometer warranty.
The updated Audi A3 range offers a compelling blend of premium features, refined driving dynamics, and, in the case of the RS 3, face-melting performance. While the A3's single engine option might seem limiting initially, it's a well-proven and efficient unit.
The RS 3, particularly in Carbon Edition guise, remains a uniquely South African proposition for those seeking the ultimate in compact performance. The price increase over the pre-facelift model is substantial, but the RS 3's performance and character still justify its premium positioning.
