The all-new Audi RS3 Sedan has only just been revealed, but it’s already making its intentions clear. It’s not here to take part, it’s here to take over, and it’s just set the record for compact cars on the Nurburgring.

The all-new Audi RS3 has set the record for compact vehicles at the Nurburgring, with a time of 7 minutes and 40.748seconds. This time deposes the current record holder, the wild Renault Megane RS Trophy-R (7 minutes and 45.389seconds) and is comfortably ahead of its arch-enemy, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S (7 minutes and 48.80 seconds).

The vehicle you see here and the below video is still in the pre-production camouflage as the record-breaking run was completed before the vehicle’s official reveal.

Behind the wheel is Audi Sport racing and development driver Frank Stippler. The Audi RS3 sedan was chosen over the Sportback as it features better aerodynamic properties. The Audi RS3 also wore the optional Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slicks tyres.

As a reminder, the 2.5-litre 5-cylinder petrol engine has been retained, but some clever upgrades have allowed for more torque. Figures of 294 kW and 500 Nm are on offer, with the 2022 Audi RS3 being said to sprint to 100 kph in a claimed 3.8 seconds and onto an optional top speed of 290 kph.

The all-new Audi RS3 will be arriving in South Africa during the 2nd half of 2022.

Audi RS3 Sedan Compact Class Record Video

Further Reading

Audi RS3 Revealed; Coming to SA in 2022

Audi S3 Specs and Pricing Announced