CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 165
Average Price: Around £35,000

Audi RS3 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 is a hyper hatchback that transcends traditional hot hatch boundaries with its 395bhp turbocharged five-cylinder engine, delivering supercar-like acceleration and a distinctive off-beat warble. Launched in 2021 and revised in 2024, it now comes exclusively as a five-door Sportback or four-door saloon, offering improved practicality with rear doors and a 282-litre boot (1,104 litres with seats folded). The RS Torque Splitter rear differential reduces understeer and enhances agility, whilst launch control ensures rapid 0-62mph sprints in just 3.8 seconds—0.1 seconds faster than its arch-rival, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S.

Available in three trim levels—RS3, Carbon Black, and Carbon Vorsprung—the car combines impressive infotainment with a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit and 10.1-inch touchscreen. The optional adaptive suspension is exceptional, delivering both comfort and performance depending on driving mode. However, interior quality has declined compared to previous Audi standards, steering feedback remains remote, and fuel consumption will be substantial if you exploit the car's full potential. Running costs are considerable, with insurance, servicing, and tyre expenses reflecting its performance credentials. As a used purchase, strong resale values mean it remains an expensive proposition, though significantly cheaper than new.

Best for: Performance enthusiasts seeking supercar-level acceleration in a practical hatchback, drivers who appreciate five-cylinder engines, and those wanting an alternative to the Mercedes-AMG A45 S.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising interior quality or steering engagement, drivers with large boot requirements, or those seeking low running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS3 if: You're a performance enthusiast seeking supercar-level acceleration in a practical hatchback, appreciate distinctive five-cylinder engines, or want an alternative to the Mercedes-AMG A45 S.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise interior quality, steering engagement, large boot space, or low running costs, or you're budget-conscious.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS3 occupies a unique position as one of only two true hyper hatchbacks, alongside the Mercedes-AMG A45 S. Whilst the BMW M2 offers rear-wheel-drive thrills and the Volkswagen Golf R provides more affordable performance, neither matches the RS3's combination of five-cylinder character, all-wheel-drive traction, and civilised capability. The RS3 is faster off the line than the Mercedes and more refined than the BMW, making it an exceptional choice for those who can afford its premium running costs. On the used market, strong resale values reflect its desirability, though this means it remains an expensive proposition compared to traditional hot hatches.

Read our full Audi RS3 Review

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

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