CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5
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Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
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Average Price: Around £47,000

Audi RS3 (2021-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Ludicrously fast	Interior quality not up to previous Audi standards
Optional adaptive suspension is brilliant	Rather small boot
Five-cylinder engine sounds great	Remote steering limits driver engagement

Quick Summary

The Audi RS3 (2021-present) is not a traditional hot hatchback but rather a 'hyper hatch'—a performance car that transcends the conventional boundaries of family hatchbacks. With 395bhp from its characterful turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, it delivers supercar-like acceleration, achieving 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds. Available as a five-door Sportback or four-door saloon, it combines genuine practicality with extraordinary performance. The new RS Torque Splitter rear differential significantly improves handling compared to earlier generations, reducing understeer and making the car feel more agile and responsive through corners.

Launched in 2021 and revised in 2024, the RS3 sits in a class of two alongside the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, with no other hot hatchbacks coming close in terms of power, pace or price. The optional adaptive suspension is exceptional, offering both comfort and precision depending on driving mode. However, the interior quality has taken a step backward from previous Audi standards, and the boot is rather small at 282 litres. Running costs are substantial, with insurance, servicing and fuel consumption reflecting its high performance. Despite these compromises, the RS3 remains a very capable and impressive machine for those seeking extreme performance in a practical package.

Best for: Drivers seeking extreme performance and acceleration, those wanting a practical yet thrilling daily driver, and buyers who appreciate five-cylinder engine character and Audi engineering.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising interior quality, drivers needing maximum boot space, or those seeking engaging steering feedback and traditional hot hatch affordability.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS3 if: You seek extreme performance and acceleration, want a practical yet thrilling daily driver, or appreciate five-cylinder engine character and sophisticated Audi engineering.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise interior quality, need maximum boot space, seek engaging steering feedback, or require traditional hot hatch affordability and lower running costs.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS3 occupies a unique position as a 'hyper hatch', sitting in a class of two alongside the Mercedes-AMG A45 S. Whilst the BMW M2 and Volkswagen Golf R are formidable rivals, they operate in different categories. The RS3 offers a more civilised and softer-edged approach than the aggressive Mercedes, yet delivers comparable performance. Its five-cylinder engine character, optional adaptive suspension and improved handling via the RS Torque Splitter make it a very capable machine. However, interior quality compromises and remote steering prevent it from being the complete package. For those prioritising sheer speed and practicality over engagement, the RS3 is an impressive choice, though the Golf R offers better value and user satisfaction.

Read our full Audi RS3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.