Overview
The Audi RS3 represents the pinnacle of Audi’s compact performance lineup, offering supercar-rivaling acceleration in a practical four-door package. Positioned as the highest-performance variant of the A3 family, the RS3 serves as an accessible entry point to Audi’s coveted RS performance division. This compact sport sedan embodies Audi’s commitment to delivering exceptional performance without sacrificing everyday usability.
The current generation RS3, introduced in 2022, continues to distinguish itself in the competitive compact luxury performance segment through its unique powertrain configuration. Unlike competitors who typically employ turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 engines, the RS3 features a distinctive 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine—a configuration that pays homage to Audi’s illustrious rally heritage while providing a genuinely distinctive character in today’s increasingly homogenized performance landscape.
The RS3’s exterior design communicates its performance intentions without resorting to excessive styling elements. Wider fenders, aggressive front air intakes, and RS-specific design cues clearly differentiate it from standard A3 models while maintaining an understated sophistication that has long characterized Audi’s approach to performance vehicles. The optional RS-specific paint colors, including the striking Kyalami Green, further emphasize its special status within the lineup.
Driving
The driving experience of the Audi RS3 is defined by its remarkable powertrain. The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine produces 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, delivering exceptional performance metrics with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds. This acceleration rivals many significantly more expensive sports cars, yet is delivered in a package that can be comfortably utilized for daily transportation.
What truly distinguishes the RS3’s driving character is not merely its straight-line performance but the distinctive engine note. The five-cylinder configuration produces a unique, melodious sound that differs substantially from the more common four and six-cylinder competitors. This sonic character adds a layer of emotional engagement that elevates the driving experience beyond what performance figures alone might suggest.
Power delivery is managed through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that provides both lightning-quick shifts when driving enthusiastically and smooth operation during relaxed cruising. The standard quattro all-wheel-drive system has been engineered specifically for the RS3 with a torque vectoring rear differential that enables a drift mode—a feature that allows experienced drivers to explore the vehicle’s dynamics in controlled environments while maintaining the security of all-wheel drive traction for everyday conditions.
The RS3’s suspension strikes an impressive balance between performance capability and daily comfort. The standard sport suspension provides excellent body control without excessive harshness, while the optional adaptive dampers expand this range further, allowing drivers to tailor the ride quality according to conditions and preferences. Standard progressive steering delivers appropriate weighting and precision, though some drivers may find it lacks the ultimate feedback of more dedicated sports cars.
Braking performance matches the powertrain’s capabilities, with standard 14.8-inch front rotors with six-piston calipers providing strong, consistent stopping power. For track-focused drivers, the optional carbon-ceramic front brakes offer enhanced performance and reduced unsprung weight, though at a significant cost premium.
Interior
The interior of the Audi RS3 successfully balances performance-oriented design with the premium materials and technology expected in the luxury segment. The standard RS sport seats, upholstered in Nappa leather with distinctive honeycomb stitching, provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for longer journeys. The flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum shift paddles, and available carbon fiber trim reinforce the vehicle’s performance intentions.
Audi’s digital cockpit is standard equipment, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be configured to display performance data, navigation information, or traditional gauges according to driver preference. This is complemented by a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system positioned centrally on the dashboard. The MMI interface offers intuitive operation with crisp graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and natural voice recognition.
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the RS3 offers reasonable practicality for its segment. Front seat occupants enjoy generous headroom and legroom, while the rear seats can accommodate adult passengers for shorter journeys without significant discomfort. The 8.3 cubic feet of trunk space, while not expansive, provides sufficient capacity for daily needs and can be expanded via the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats when additional cargo capacity is required.
Noise isolation is well-managed, with road and wind noise effectively suppressed at highway speeds. The acoustic character of the five-cylinder engine is carefully controlled through the active exhaust system, allowing drivers to enjoy its distinctive sound when desired but reducing its presence during relaxed cruising. The standard 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers exceptional audio quality and effectively complements the refined environment.
Buying
Purchasing an Audi RS3 requires a significant investment, with a starting price of approximately $59,995 before destination charges and optional equipment. While this positions the RS3 at a premium compared to mainstream performance vehicles, it represents a relatively accessible entry point to the exclusive high-performance luxury segment. The pricing structure places the RS3 in direct competition with vehicles such as the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and BMW M2.
The RS3 comes comprehensively equipped as standard, including performance features such as quattro all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, RS sport suspension, and progressive steering. Standard convenience and luxury amenities include leather upholstery, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, and the comprehensive digital cockpit technology suite. However, several desirable options are available only through additional packages.
The Dynamic package adds adaptive suspension dampers, increased top speed (from 155 mph to 180 mph), and the RS sport exhaust system. The Carbon package includes carbon fiber interior trim and exterior mirror housings. Individual options include the carbon-ceramic front brakes, head-up display, and premium paint finishes. A well-optioned RS3 can approach $70,000, requiring careful consideration of which features provide meaningful value to individual buyers.
Audi provides a limited warranty covering 4 years or 50,000 miles, matching most competitors in the segment. The powertrain warranty extends to the same duration, and the first scheduled maintenance visit is complimentary. While annual maintenance costs typically exceed those of mainstream vehicles, they remain reasonable within the performance luxury segment, with service intervals of 10,000 miles helping to manage ongoing ownership expenses.
Residual values for the RS3 have historically been strong, benefiting from limited production numbers and the vehicle’s desirability among enthusiasts. This strength in the secondary market can positively impact lease rates, making leasing a potentially attractive option for those who regularly update their vehicles.
Specs & Prices
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged inline five-cylinder
- Power: 401 horsepower at 5,600-7,000 rpm
- Torque: 369 lb-ft at 2,250-5,600 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive with torque vectoring
- 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
- Top Speed: 155 mph (standard), 180 mph (with Dynamic package)
- Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- Fuel Tank: 14.5 gallons
Dimensions
- Length: 178.8 inches
- Width: 72.0 inches (77.4 inches with mirrors)
- Height: 55.6 inches
- Wheelbase: 103.6 inches
- Curb Weight: 3,649 pounds
- Cargo Volume: 8.3 cubic feet
- Passenger Volume: 91.9 cubic feet
Price Information (2025 Model Year)
- Base Price: $59,995
- Destination Charge: $1,095
- Key Packages:
- Dynamic Package: $3,500
- Technology Package: $2,750
- Carbon Package: $2,500
- Notable Options:
- Carbon Ceramic Front Brakes: $5,500
- Head-up Display: $1,000
- Premium Paint Colors: $595-$1,595
- RS Design Package (Red or Green): $900
- Black Optic Package: $1,500
Standard Equipment Highlights
- 19-inch 5-Y-spoke design wheels
- RS sport suspension
- LED headlights with signature daytime running lights
- Nappa leather upholstery with honeycomb stitching
- Heated front sport seats with 12-way power adjustment
- 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit
- 10.1-inch MMI touch display infotainment system
- 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
- Audi pre sense basic and front (forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking)
- Lane departure warning
- Parking system plus with front and rear sensors
- Rearview camera
- Adaptive cruise control (optional)
- Side assist with rear cross-traffic assist (optional)
- Park assist (optional)
In conclusion, the Audi RS3 offers an enticing combination of exhilarating performance, distinctive character, and everyday practicality. The unique five-cylinder engine provides both exceptional acceleration and an engaging sensory experience that distinguishes it from competitors. While the purchase price represents a significant investment, the RS3 delivers genuine supercar-rivaling performance in a package that can be utilized daily, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated yet thrilling driving experience without the compromises traditionally associated with dedicated sports cars.
