Used Audi RS3 for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 130
Average Price: Around £46,000

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 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. Available as a five-door Sportback or four-door saloon, it combines serious performance with reasonable practicality, though the 282-litre boot is smaller than rivals. The characterful five-pot engine sounds magnificent, whilst the new RS Torque Splitter rear differential significantly improves handling dynamics compared to earlier generations. Adaptive suspension (on higher trims) provides exceptional ride quality across various driving modes.

This is a car for those who want blistering pace without compromise, though it comes at a premium price point starting above £60,000 new. Running costs are substantial, with insurance, servicing, maintenance and fuel consumption all reflecting its high-performance nature. The RS3 sits in a class of two alongside the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, offering a more civilised and refined approach to hyper hatch performance. Strong resale values mean used examples remain expensive, but for buyers seeking uncompromising speed wrapped in an Audi badge, it delivers in spades.

Best for: Drivers seeking extreme performance in a practical package, those who appreciate five-cylinder engine character, and buyers willing to pay premium prices for a rare and capable machine.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising interior quality or spacious boots, drivers seeking engaging steering feedback, or anyone concerned about fuel consumption and running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS3 if: You seek extreme performance in a practical package, appreciate five-cylinder engine character, and are willing to pay premium prices for a rare and capable machine.

Consider alternatives if: You are budget-conscious, prioritise interior quality or spacious boots, seek engaging steering feedback, or are concerned about fuel consumption and running costs.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS3 occupies a unique position as a hyper hatchback, competing directly only with the Mercedes-AMG A45 S. Whilst rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R and BMW M2 offer impressive performance, they operate in different categories. The RS3 delivers uncompromising speed and sophistication, though at a premium cost. Its civilised approach contrasts with the Mercedes' aggression, making it ideal for those seeking extreme pace wrapped in Audi refinement. However, potential buyers should consider the S3 as a more affordable alternative offering hot hatch thrills with less financial commitment.

Read our full Audi RS3 Review

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