By Prashirwin Naidu
One can never get enough of driver safety training. It’s even sweeter when you’re learning in a sports car that proudly bears the iconic Audi RS badge. My recent Audi Driving Experience at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Gauteng was thrilling. Superlatives abound when describing the RS models. While learning defensive driving techniques, I was also paying tribute to a heritage spanning four decades. The RS badge is 40 years old, and as they say, life begins at forty. I may not be close to 40, but it was exciting to learn and experience the engineering and technology perfected over those forty years. While some dream of hosting Formula One at the Kyalami circuit, for now, we had the privilege of enjoying it, honing our skills, and learning to drive safely on this legendary South African track.
The day started with a safety briefing, followed by training sessions to refine our driving skills on the track. With the reintroduction of the Audi Driving Experience, the focus is on delivering an unforgettable high-performance driving adventure. Audi also has ambitious plans for future expansion, aiming to offer more driving experiences to appeal to a wider range of enthusiasts.

Getting behind the wheel of these impressive RS models was exhilarating. The highlight of the long day was pushing the “Pocket Rocket” RS3 to its limits with a few hot laps. We had a few options to choose from: the powerful Audi RS3 Sportback and Sedan, Audi’s performance-category winner at the 2023 South African Car of the Year competition, as well as the versatile RS4 Avant and RS5 Sportback.

The day consisted of three sequences. First up, we practised high-speed braking and
obstacle avoidance in the RS3, using ABS on a straight road. Next, we were taken halfway around the track in the RS4, learning when to accelerate, brake, and corner. Finally, we tackled a tight bend at speed in the RS3, which was quite spectacular. To finish, I did a hot lap in the RS5, which was both beastly and brilliant. In the end, though, I chose the RS3 and spent the rest of the day enjoying its performance to the fullest.
Guided by lead instructors and a team of seasoned professionals, we enjoyed the thrill of speed and precision throughout the day. I learned driving techniques and performance skills in a controlled environment. The laps were designed to improve my understanding of cornering, braking, acceleration, the ideal driving line, and the effect of weight shifting on the vehicle. I highly recommend this course to anyone behind the wheel. Yes, it comes at a steep price of R16,100 (inclusive of VAT), but the skills gained are worth every cent. It’s always better to sharpen your instincts than be dulled by a lack of them. Drive safely! The RS is truly special.

Customers can conveniently book their spots or learn more through the dedicated Audi Driving Experience website. By the end, I walked away not only knowing how to drive this iconic track but also having gained a better understanding my vehicle — such as when to apply brakes and how to manoeuvre through tight bends. It was truly marvellous and every petrolhead’s dream.