Overview
The Audi RS3: raw performance wrapped in everyday practicality. The Audi RS3 might be exactly what you’re searching for. This compact powerhouse delivers supercar levels of performance wrapped in a practical family-friendly package. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want blistering speed without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
The RS3 stands apart from regular hot hatches with its legendary five-cylinder engine. While rivals like the Mercedes A-Class AMG A45 S focus on turbo fours, the RS3’s 2.5-litre turbocharged five-pot creates a distinctive warble that’s instantly recognisable. The quattro all-wheel drive system means you can use that massive power in all weather conditions, making it a genuine year-round supercar alternative.
Behind the wheel, the RS3 transforms every journey into an event. The acceleration is breathtaking, launching you from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds. Yet it remains civilised enough for school runs and motorway cruising. The interior matches the engine’s drama with sports seats, carbon fibre trim, and Audi’s latest technology. While the price tag reflects its premium positioning, you’re getting a truly special driving experience that few cars can match.
Overall Rating
4.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.9
Comfort & Interior
4.5
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
What's the Audi RS3 Like to Drive?
The heart of every RS3 is its magnificent 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine producing 400 horsepower. This powerplant delivers explosive acceleration, rocketing from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. The distinctive five-cylinder soundtrack is intoxicating, offering a unique warble that no four-cylinder rival can replicate. It’s an engine that makes every acceleration feel like a special occasion.
The quattro all-wheel drive system distributes power intelligently to maximise traction and stability. The steering feels precise and communicative, building confidence through tight corners and high-speed sweeps. The adaptive suspension can transform from comfortable cruiser to track-focused weapon at the touch of a button. This versatility makes it equally at home navigating city streets or attacking country roads. The brakes are powerful and progressive, providing reassuring stopping power to match the incredible acceleration.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.5L 5-cylinder TFSI
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Power Output
400 bhp
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0-60 mph
3.8 seconds
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MPG Combined
32 mpg
- Boot Space
- 335 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Audi RS3 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review
The RS3’s cabin rivals any luxury sedan in its meticulous craftsmanship and material excellence. The cabin blends luxury materials with purposeful sports car elements beautifully. The RS sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys. Carbon fibre inlays and aluminium pedals add visual drama, while the flat-bottomed steering wheel feels perfect in your hands.
The Virtual Cockpit display dominates the dashboard with crisp graphics and multiple display modes including a special RS screen. Build quality is exemplary throughout, with solid switches and premium materials on every surface. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Road and wind noise are well controlled, creating a refined environment even at motorway speeds. Climate control and heated seats ensure year-round comfort for all occupants.
The Audi RS3 represents the pinnacle of hot hatch engineering, delivering genuine supercar performance in a useable package. That magnificent five-cylinder engine is the star of the show, providing acceleration and soundtrack that rivals costing twice as much can’t match. The quattro system gives you confidence to use every bit of power in all conditions.
Is the Audi RS3 Expensive to Run?
Running an RS3 demands deep pockets, though its supercar thrills justify the premium outlay. Real-world fuel economy hovers around 25-30 mpg in mixed driving, though this can plummet dramatically when you exploit the full performance. Insurance premiums will be substantial given the car’s performance and value. Road tax is also higher due to CO2 emissions from that thirsty five-cylinder engine.
The initial purchase price positions the RS3 firmly in premium territory, typically starting around £55,000 new. However, Audi’s strong residual values help protect your investment over time. Servicing costs are higher than mainstream brands, but the build quality is generally excellent. Many buyers choose car finance options to spread the cost, making this level of performance more accessible. Factor in premium fuel requirements and you’re looking at serious running costs for serious performance.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Audi RS3
|
Mercedes AMG A45 S
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BMW M2
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £55,000 | £54,000 | £58,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.5L 5-cyl TFSI | 2.0L 4-cyl Turbo | 3.0L 6-cyl Turbo |
| Power | 400 bhp | 416 bhp | 370 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.8 seconds | 3.9 seconds | 4.1 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 32 mpg | 31 mpg | 33 mpg |
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Practicality
|
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| Boot Space | 335 litres | 345 litres | 390 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Five-cylinder sound, Quattro AWD, Virtual Cockpit | Most powerful, Drift Mode, AMG styling | Rear-wheel drive, Pure handling, BMW heritage |
Audi RS3 Practicality & Boot Space
For such a focused performance machine, the RS3 remains surprisingly practical for daily use. The 335-litre boot easily accommodates a weekly shopping trip or weekend luggage for two. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed. Interior storage includes cup holders, door pockets, and a useful centre console compartment for everyday items.
Rear passenger space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, though the sloping roofline restricts headroom slightly. The compact dimensions make urban parking straightforward despite the car’s wide stance. Family buyers will appreciate the five-door practicality and ISOFIX child seat mounting points. Compared to other used Audi cars, the RS3 offers an excellent balance of performance and everyday usability that few rivals can match.
Absolutely blown away by this car. The engine sound is addictive and the performance is incredible. Build quality feels bulletproof and it’s surprisingly comfortable for daily use. Running costs are high but worth every penny for the experience.
The Audi RS3 proves that hot hatches need never compromise between thrilling performance and genuine everyday usability. Its legendary five-cylinder engine delivers an experience that no rival can truly replicate. The quattro all-wheel drive system ensures you can access that performance safely in all conditions, while the premium interior provides comfort and technology befitting the price tag.
You choose the RS3 when you want the fastest point-to-point car that doesn’t compromise on usability. It excels as both a weekend toy and daily driver, offering flexibility that pure sports cars can’t match. If budget allows and you appreciate engineering excellence, the RS3 delivers an ownership experience that justifies its premium positioning. For those seeking more affordable performance options, exploring cars under £10,000 might reveal interesting alternatives.
A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
