Looks like Audi have reached the pinnacle with the new 8.5Y.
View: https://youtu.be/Vjk87amEIxk?is=6LFVHfo2VAwyAwd_
View: https://youtu.be/Vjk87amEIxk?is=6LFVHfo2VAwyAwd_
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8.5Y vs M2
- Thread starter HM3P
- Start date
Racer Sam loves the RS3. He said something like it's night and day better Vs previous versions.
TX.
TX.
Its very noticeable that the programming of the 'magna' diff has been changed, my 22 car felt like the rear was on tip toes and shuffled about a little when pressing on compared to the same unit in the Golf Mk8R, my facelift RS3 feels more like or maybe better than the Golf's set up, just inspires confidence 
I'm surprised i haven't been offered a software upgrade package for that!Its very noticeable that the programming of the 'magna' diff has been changed, my 22 car felt like the rear was on tip toes and shuffled about a little when pressing on compared to the same unit in the Golf Mk8R, my facelift RS3 feels more like or maybe better than the Golf's set up, just inspires confidence
Here's what Gemini thinks
The Software Changes
For the mid-cycle refresh (introduced for the 2025/2026 model years), Audi left the mechanical drive unit untouched and updated the Modular Vehicle Dynamics Controller (mVDC) algorithms:- Tighter Integration with Wheel-Selective Braking: The 2022 model used the torque splitter and brake-based torque vectoring in somewhat segregated layers, which could occasionally produce slight understeer before the rear clutches actively intervened. The revised algorithm meshes torque split, damper valving, and inside-wheel brake pulsing simultaneously on turn-in, pulling the front end tighter into the apex.
- Earlier Throttle Application: Because the clutches ramp up pressure earlier and more accurately based on steering angle and yaw rate, the car rotates sooner mid-corner, allowing earlier throttle application without washing wide.
- Refined "RS Torque Rear" (Drift Mode): In the 2022 calibration, breaking the rear end loose required aggressive throttle input to overcome front-axle traction. The updated logic reacts faster to steering inputs, making slides easier to initiate and modulate with the throttle.