CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 140
Average Price: Around £39,000

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 a hyper hatchback that transcends traditional hot hatch boundaries with 395bhp, 500Nm of torque, and a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. Available as a five-door Sportback or four-door saloon, it combines supercar-like acceleration with practical family car versatility. The characterful turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine delivers distinctive performance, whilst the standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system and launch control ensure rapid, controlled getaways. The new RS Torque Splitter rear differential reduces understeer and improves agility compared to previous generations, making it considerably more engaging through corners.

Offered in three trim levels—RS3, Carbon Black, and Carbon Vorsprung—the car features a sharp 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The optional adaptive suspension is exceptional, delivering both comfort and performance depending on driving mode. However, interior quality has declined from previous Audi standards, and the 282-litre boot is notably smaller than rivals. Running costs are substantial, with insurance, servicing, and fuel consumption reflecting its 395bhp output. As a used purchase, strong resale values mean it remains an expensive proposition, though it represents a more civilised alternative to the aggressive Mercedes-AMG A45 S.

Best for: Drivers seeking supercar-level performance in a practical hatchback, those valuing the distinctive five-cylinder engine character, and buyers who prefer a refined, composed driving experience over raw aggression.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising interior quality or boot space, drivers seeking maximum steering feedback, or those wanting lower running costs and insurance premiums.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS3 if: You seek supercar-level performance in a practical hatchback, value the distinctive five-cylinder engine character, or prefer a refined, composed driving experience over raw aggression.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise interior quality, boot space, maximum steering feedback, or lower running costs and insurance premiums.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS3 occupies a unique position as a hyper hatchback, sitting alongside only the Mercedes-AMG A45 S in its performance bracket. Whilst the BMW M2 offers rear-wheel-drive thrills and the Volkswagen Golf R provides excellent value, the RS3 delivers a more civilised, technology-rich package with distinctive five-cylinder character. Its 395bhp output, rapid acceleration, and improved handling via the RS Torque Splitter make it genuinely supercar-quick. However, declining interior quality, a small boot, and substantial running costs mean it's best suited to performance enthusiasts who value capability and refinement over affordability. The optional adaptive suspension elevates the driving experience considerably, making it worth seeking on the used market.

Read our full Audi RS3 Review

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

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