The Audi RS 3's all-wheel-drive system means traction is ever present, even in slippery conditions, and the vibrant turbocharged five-cylinder engine means you're never wanting for power or drama. But just as it can barnstorm a back road, it can also be a civilized counterpart on the day-to-day. The RS 3 is a compelling pick for a hot compact.
Pricing
Total MSRPThis price includes a $1,095 destination fee charged by the manufacturer.
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Nick Yekikian has worked in the automotive industry since 2019. He has written close to a thousand car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 200 vehicles over the course of his career. Nick is the News Editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to MotorTrend, Automobile Magazine and Super Street. When Nick isn't zipping around town in his latest used-car find, he's probably making digital art in Photoshop or playing disc golf with friends.
Pros
Strong and characterful engine
Excellent grip and stability around corners
Comfortable front seats and ride for a performance car
Cons
Driving experience isn't particularly engaging
Some interior materials seem low-rent given the RS 3's price
What's new
Redesigned for 2022
More power extracted from five-cylinder turbo engine
Higher handling limits and capabilities
Based on the third-generation A3 that also debuted for 2022
Overview
Given the popularity of small luxury SUVs, you'd probably understand had Audi kicked its A3 sedan to the curb after the last generation sunsetted for the 2021 model year. There are certainly easier-to-come-by dollars for an automaker to be sure. But give credit to Audi for keeping the entry-level luxury sedan flame lit because here we are not only with a redesigned 2022 A3 but also the continuation of the gonzo RS 3.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Audi RS 3 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 5cyl Turbo 7AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.32 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
The A3 and its performance-minded S3 variant make a respectable amount of power, at 201 horsepower and 306 hp, respectively. But it's the even more extreme 2022 Audi RS 3 that has us dusting off the old race helmet for a track day. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five, which is exclusive to the RS 3 and TT RS, pumps out 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. That's admittedly a modest increase of 7 hp and 15 lb-ft compared to the previous model, but it's appropriate in scope and mission for a car like this. Plus, the five-cylinder's distinctive, warbling sound is worlds more interesting than the typical four-cylinder's.
Audi has focused a lot on improving the RS 3's handling performance. To that end, the RS 3 now features what Audi calls a torque splitter as part of the standard all-wheel-drive system. This new rear differential can vector additional torque to the outside rear wheel as you go around a turn to help the car rotate a little and make it feel more lively and nimble. There's also a Torque Rear mode, which can shunt all torque through one rear wheel — perfect for inducing tail-happy oversteer on a racetrack. Other upgrades include a sport-tuned suspension (with adaptive dampers), a more expressive exhaust system and an aerodynamic body kit. Also on the options list are track-ready Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires and front carbon-ceramic brakes.
The RS 3 is part of an exclusive class of small high-performance sedans. Its most direct rival is the Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 45. Beyond that you'll need to consider coupes such as the BMW 2 Series or move up in price to the likes of the Audi RS 5 and BMW M3. Read our test team's Expert Rating below for a deeper dive into the RS 3's capabilities and character.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
The Audi RS 3's all-wheel-drive system means traction is ever present, even in slippery conditions, and the vibrant turbocharged five-cylinder engine means you're never wanting for power or drama. But just as it can barnstorm a back road, it can also be a civilized counterpart on the day-to-day. The RS 3 is a compelling pick for a hot compact.
How does the RS 3 drive? The RS 3's centerpiece is its 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. It has a unique sound and delivers stunning performance. In our testing we recorded a 3.9-second 0-60 mph run on California's 91 octane fuel, making it quicker than Mercedes' AMG CLA 45. (Edmunds is based in Los Angeles.) But the RS 3 doesn't deliver full thrust until you feed it 93 octane fuel, and once we added an octane booster the RS 3 chipped 0.3 second off its 0-60 time. That's exceptional, but residents in states that can't get 93 will wish the RS 3 could make that happen without having to add a bottle of octane booster with each tank.
Though it delivers crushing speed, the experience of getting there isn't as evocative as we'd like. It's not that it doesn't drive well; it's that the way the RS 3 goes about delivering its almost bewildering performance is anodyne. The Audi RS 5 left us with a similar coldness. It feels like the RS 3 keeps the driver an arm's reach away from the experience thanks to nearly lifeless steering and electronic aids that filter your inputs. If you want something visceral, the RS 3 might not be the best choice.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the RS 3? Audi's RS-badged cars have historically done a good job of balancing comfort and performance and the RS 3 is no different. Even in the suspension's stiffest mode, lumps and bumps form the road surface only rarely make their way into the cabin, a rare trait from a car with such high performance aspirations. You will notice plenty of road noise thrumming its way through the cabin due to the RS 3's 19-inch wheels and high-performance Pirelli tires. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's worth mentioning.
The RS 3's specialized sport front seats only add to the cabin's comfort level. They're covered in soft leather and uniquely supple. They aren't as firm and don't hold on as tightly as the seats from some competitors, but we'll take that trade-off for a bit of added everyday usability.
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How’s the interior? The RS 3 has an almost identical interior as the A3 and S3. That's both good and bad. It's great thanks to exceptional usability. The rear seat is roomy enough for two 6-foot-tall passengers to be reasonably comfortable. We also like that the climate controls are a cinch to use, and Audi's infotainment setup is significantly easier to learn than iDrive in BMWs and MBUX in Mercedes' small cars. Thanks to the Audi's small dimensions, visibility is also good from all angles and getting in and out of the plush bucket seats is no problem at all.
The biggest downside to this cabin is that, for an RS-badged machine, it doesn't do enough to differentiate itself from its more pedestrian siblings. The RS-specific bucket seats are the only major differentiator between this and an A3, and while we appreciate how comfortable and supportive they are, the rest of the cabin doesn't quite feel as special as it should.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? The RS 3's infotainment system isn't as flashy as Mercedes' MBUX system, but it works just as well and is even easier to navigate. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is supported, and the interior features four USB ports to make sure everyone's device is fully charged up.
Every safety aid that Audi makes available on its small cars is standard on the RS 3. That means adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot warning system, and lane keeping assistance are all here at no extra cost. To our surprise, Audi's adaptive cruise control has been massively improved in the RS 3. Previous Audis, performance models or not, suffered from adaptive cruise systems that were too quick to panic brake or randomly disengaged altogether. Not so in the RS 3, and this improvement makes using the system a much more confidence-inspiring experience.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? Though it's a small car, the RS 3 still offers plenty of storage space. Generously sized door bins and well-placed cupholders in the center console swallow cups and other small items with ease. The center console is too small, however, and not deep enough to be considered a real storage option. It also relies on the armrest to act as its lid, and if you plan on supporting your arm at all, the center console is technically never shut.
The truck opening is large enough to make loading and unloading relatively easy. The truck is also a decent size for a small car, offering 8.3 cubic feet of free air to work with. Things are opened up further thanks to 60/40-split folding rear seats that help make way for larger items.
Fuel Economy
7.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA says the RS 3 should get 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving, but on our mixed-driving evaluation route, our test RS 3 managed 20.9 mpg, and we aren't surprised. Spirited driving will always gulp fuel at a quicker rate than simply commuting, and we aren't surprised that the RS 3 struggled to match its EPA estimate.
Value
7.5/10
Is the RS 3 a good value? Know that you're paying for performance here, not exceptional cabin quality. The plastics are akin to what you'd find in a base A3, and there is a vast amount of piano black plastic that will snag your fingerprints immediately, giving the screens and parts of the center console a grimy look. That said, we have to give credit to how well the RS 3 is screwed together. Our test car had no errant squeaks or rattles, and all of the buttons, knobs and switches felt very high-quality.
Wildcard
8.0/10
It's safe to say you won't see many RS 3s around, but we're willing to bet this car will be more popular than the RS 3 that came before it. It's a more well-rounded package and looks more like an RS-badged Audi should, with a more aggressive front end and lower stance than before. We like the Audi's looks. It's also devilishly fast, and if it did a better job of connecting us to the driving experience, it would score higher here. We just wish the RS 3 was a bit less serious and a bit more fun, but there's no denying how effective it is.
Which RS 3 does Edmunds recommend?
The RS 3 comes in just one trim but offers some options for extra performance or personalization. We'd opt for the Technology package, which adds navigation with traffic sign recognition, a head-up display and a premium Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system. Even if you plan to use phone-based navigation, the native system is a great alternative or backup, and the sound system is sublime. We also think the upgraded RS sport exhaust is a near must-have.
Audi RS 3 models
The 2022 Audi RS 3 is a five-passenger sedan offered in a single well-equipped trim level. It comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine (401 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque) paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic suspension and all-wheel drive. Standard features include:
LED headlights
19-inch wheels
High-performance summer tires
Panoramic sunroof
Keyless entry and ignition
Auto-dimming mirrors (with power-folding side mirrors)
Premium leather upholstery with diamond quilt stitching
Power-adjustable and heated front seats with driver's seat memory
Three-zone automatic climate control
LED interior lighting
Digital instrument cluster
10.1-inch touchscreen display
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (includes wireless connectivity)
Wireless charging pad
Two rear USB ports
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
Advanced driver assist features include:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Lane keeping assistance (steers the A3 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
The RS 3 also offers several packages and a few stand-alone options to further enhance the RS 3. Highlights include:
RS Technology package
Integrated navigation system
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
Premium Bang & Olufsen audio system
Black Optic Plus package
19-inch wheels in matte black finish
Black roof
Black badging
Dynamic Plus package
Raises top speed to 180 mph
Carbon-fiber engine cover
Carbon-ceramic front brakes with red calipers
RS sport exhaust
High-performance Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
#DIV/0! (Function DIVIDE parameter 2 cannot be zero.)
Performance results
0-60 mph (sec.):
3.7
1/4-mile (sec. @ mph):
11.9 @ 114.9
60-0 mph (ft.):
106
Skid pad, 200-ft. diameter (lateral g):
0.96
Sound level @ idle (dB):
48.7/50.5
Sound level @ 70 mph cruise (dB):
67.5
Driver’s Comments
Acceleration:
What an engine. I love this turbo inline-5. It's punchy, makes all the right noises and gives the RS 3 a bit of uniqueness to set it out from the pack. Paired with a slick dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, the engine makes for some quick acceleration times. The initial run was fine, but if you just mash it off the line the RS 3 will hesitate before giving you power, and it's a bit weak below 2,500 rpm. The best run was done using launch control. Put the car in RS mode, hold the brake and then push the gas. You'll get a little notification telling you launch control is ready. Release the brake and hold on. The car will automatically upshift, and the shifts themselves are pretty quick. IMPORTANT NOTE: the best reported figures were achieved using octane booster. The RS 3 specifically calls for 93, but in California where Edmunds tests, 91 octane is the highest that's widely available. Our best time before adding the octane booster was 3.9 seconds, and we carried less speed through the quarter mile, meaning the RS 3 was accelerating harder with the octane booster than without.
Braking:
Solid braking performance here. The RS 3 is fitted with Pirelli P Zero summer tires, and those tend to perform better with a little heat. It's no surprise that the Audi's shortest stop was its third, though stops got a bit longer after that, evening out after a few more runs. There was no noticeable fade in the pedal, and the firm pedal and lack of fade gave me a lot of confidence in corners. Under hard stops, the ABS feels like it's working overtime, and I noticed a small bit of wiggle from the rear end. There was a mild amount of dive, too, but nothing egregious.
Handling:
When it comes to handling and skidpad performance, it's important to talk about the RS 3's tires. In this specific case, it's less about the compound and more about the size. As with the previous RS 3, the new car's front tires are actually wider than the rear, 265/30 ZR19 vs 245/35 ZR19. Plenty of cars have staggered wheel sizes, but very, very few cars have ever had front tires that were wider than the rear. There are a handful of reasons for this, but it's all in an effort to improve traction and stability. The A3 is a front-wheel drive based car, and even with all-wheel drive, the RS 3 still handles a bit like a front-wheel drive car. That means understeer at the limit. You can correct it with a bit of gas. The wheel provides decent feedback, and overall the car feels fairly controlled. There's mild body roll, but motions are kept well in check.
How do we test?
The instrumented testing at our test track is only one part of the Edmunds Rating process.
The BMW 2 Series coupe is also redesigned for 2022, and the top-trim M240i is nearly as entertaining to drive as the RS 3. The BMW comes with standard all-wheel drive, nearly the same amount of power, and more cargo space. It also costs significantly less than the RS 3, but it leaves out some standard features and offers just two doors. The more powerful BMW M2 coupe is a more competitive matchup with the RS 3, but it's a 2023 model.
These two cars are similar in concept. As the RS 3 is the top-dog version of the A3, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is the most powerful version Mercedes makes for the CLA. It also has standard all-wheel drive and plenty of performance-enhancing features. You won't go wrong with either, but the RS 3 comes across as a little bit more special.
Audi RS 3 vs. Volvo C40 Recharge Twin Pure Electric
Hear us out: The C40 is a closer analog to the RS 3 than it appears. It's roughly the same size, even a little shorter than the diminutive Audi, but it makes the same power and generates much more low-end torque. It also offers almost double the cargo space as the RS 3 and comes infused with a sport-oriented suspension. Of course, it's an EV, so there's no lovely engine purr and exhaust sound like the RS 3 offers. But if you're thinking about going electric, the C40 is a compelling alternative.
Sales of small luxury sedans are largely eclipsed by those of their SUV counterparts, which is why we're pleasantly surprised to see a third generation of Audi's excellent A3 four-door debut in 2022. The A3 and its performance-minded S3 variant make a respectable amount of power, at 201 horsepower and 306 hp, respectively. But it's the even more extreme 2022 Audi RS 3 that has us dusting off the old race helmet for a track day. Driven by Audi's long-lasting five-cylinder engine, the RS 3 improves upon its predecessor with quicker acceleration, enhanced handling abilities and a greater emphasis on in-cabin technology.
What's under the RS 3's hood?
While the A3 and S3 make do with a turbocharged four-cylinder, the RS 3 utilizes a much more potent turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five. It produces a stomping 401 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque — admittedly a modest increase of 7 hp and 15 lb-ft compared to the previous model. Its estimated 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds is properly fast, but it's only 0.1 second quicker than the old RS 3. Track warriors should note that the RS 3's top speed ranges from 155 mph in the standard model to 180 mph when equipped with the Dynamic package and carbon-ceramic brakes. As with the outgoing RS 3, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and all-wheel drive are standard.
Instead of focusing efforts under the hood, Audi engineers turned their attention to handling performance. To that end, the RS 3 now features what Audi calls the Torque Splitter on the rear axle. This revised differential introduces an electronically controlled multi-clutch pack on each half-shaft to distribute power to the rear wheels. There's also a Torque Rear mode, which can shunt all torque through one rear wheel — perfect for inducing tail-happy oversteer on a racetrack.
Other upgrades include a sport-tuned suspension (with adaptive dampers), a more expressive exhaust system and an aerodynamic body kit. Also on the options list are track-ready Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.
How's the RS 3's interior?
The RS 3 benefits from the standard A3's revised interior, so expect to see a more tech-heavy cabin this time around. A 10.1-inch touchscreen controls most of the vehicle functions, and drivers will find auxiliary information displayed in the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and head-up display. Many of the A3's features also carry forward to the RS 3, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, a wireless charging pad, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility (with wireless versions of both planned for the near future).
The RS 3's interior is pretty much the same as the S3's. It does have an RS button, giving the pilot easy access to the seven available driving modes. You can also spec the cabin with the RS design package, which adds green stitching throughout the interior, with air vent appliques to match.
Edmunds says
In a drag race, the 2022 Audi RS 3 will barely eke out a win against its predecessor. Most of the changes are related to handling and braking performance, along with a serious upgrade to a now tech-focused interior. It looks to be a welcome rival to the likes of the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing and Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 45.
FAQ
Is the Audi RS 3 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2022 RS 3 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the RS 3 has 8.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi RS 3. Learn more
What's new in the 2022 Audi RS 3?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2022 Audi RS 3:
Redesigned for 2022
More power extracted from five-cylinder turbo engine
Higher handling limits and capabilities
Based on the third-generation A3 that also debuted for 2022
To determine whether the Audi RS 3 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RS 3. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RS 3's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2022 Audi RS 3 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2022 Audi RS 3 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2022 RS 3 and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2022 RS 3 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2022 Audi RS 3?
The least-expensive 2022 Audi RS 3 is the 2022 Audi RS 3 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 5cyl Turbo 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $58,900.
Other versions include:
4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 5cyl Turbo 7AM) which starts at $58,900
If you're interested in the Audi RS 3, the next question is, which RS 3 model is right for you? RS 3 variants include 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 5cyl Turbo 7AM). For a full list of RS 3 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
