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2023 Audi RS3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Audi RS3 highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Powerful engine
  • Excellent handling
  • Comfortable ride

Cons

  • Can get expensive
  • No manual transmission

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 29 highway, 23 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

The 2023 Audi RS 3 is a high-performance all-wheel-drive premium compact sedan

The RS moniker in the Audi lineup has always designated the highest-performance variant of a model, and that holds true for the RS 3. The RS 3 is a compact four-door sedan that delivers a massive boost in power and performance over the standard Audi A3, but at a notable price premium. Completely redesigned for the 2022 model year, the RS 3 comes into the 2023 model year virtually unchanged. Audi offers the RS 3 as a single trim level that boasts Quattro all-wheel drive and a five-cylinder engine that puts out an impressive 401 horsepower. The small but quick Audi gets a comfortable, premium interior with usable space for passengers and cargo, although rear passengers may find the space a bit tight. Standing out from the standard A3 with a bold grille, big wheels, and a range of bright color options, the RS 3 competes well against European competitors like the BMW M2 and Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG.

All Audi RS3 years

What is new for the 2023 Audi RS3?

  • RS3 trims have been upgraded with Front Seat Heaters, Overhead Airbags, Parking Sensors, Rear Spoiler, Alloy Wheels, Apple CarPlay, Satellite Radio Ready, Auxiliary Audio Input, and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment this year.
  • Head Up Display, Navigation System, and Bang & Olufsen Audio features are now available as options on select trims.

2023 Audi RS3 trims

Curious how Audi RS3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 401-hp, 369-lb-ft of torque 2.5L
  • Power Mirrors
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Side Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Rear Defroster
  • Sunroofs
  • View our Audi RS3 inventory

5 reasons to buy the 2023 Audi RS3

What We Like

Performance: With a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine sending 401 horsepower to all four wheels, the RS 3 is very quick. Audi says the compact sport sedan will sprint to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The suspension is firm but not overly stiff, so the RS 3 is great fun on a twisty road while delivering a comfortable, smooth ride when cruising on the highway.

Interior: The RS 3 not only has the look of a high-performance car, but the interior also carries that theme. Up front are special sport seats trimmed in Nappa leather, and they're stylish and comfortable with excellent support. Premium materials are used throughout for a premium experience. While the rear seat is a bit tight, it can still work for two adults, at least for short stints.

Technology: The RS 3 carries the latest infotainment system from Audi, and with clear icons and easy navigation, it is one of the better systems available. The nicely integrated display screen is angled toward the driver for better visibility. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay® connect wirelessly, and there are multiple USB ports to keep devices charged. The RS 3 also features the latest advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control with lane guidance and Park Assist automated parking system.

What Needs Improvement

Storage: The RS 3 is a small car, and while there are a good number of storage spaces in the cabin, the center console is rather small, making it a poor storage option. The trunk is decently shaped for a small car but still only offers 8.3 cubic feet of space. The rear seats can be folded flat, though, to provide space for larger items.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2023 Audi RS3 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

Audi RS3 features and specs

Base 4WD/AWD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Head Up Display
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

401

Torque (ft-lbs)

369

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

14.5

Wheelbase

103.6"

Overall length

178.8"

Width

72.9"

Height

55.6"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.1"

Head room

F 36.5"/R 36.1"

Front tires

P265/30YR19

Rear tires

P265/30YR19

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2023 Audi RS3 FAQ

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