Audi S3 vs Audi RS 3
Overview | |
Years produced2015-2020 | Years produced2017-2020 |
MSRP$45,800 | MSRP$63,400 |
Listings469 | Listings495 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Reviews SummaryThe all-new 2022 Audi S3 sedan finds a balance between the comparably restrained A3 and over-the-top RS 3, delivering an optimal blend of performance, comfort, luxury, and technology. Despite its entry-level positioning, it exceeds expectations and makes for a smart purchase for spirited drivers, so long as they keep an eye on options. | |
Reviews SummaryThe RS badge only accompanies the sportiest version of a given Audi model, as demonstrated for the 2025 Audi RS 3. It differentiates itself from the Audi A3 and S3 sedans with a unique engine, more sophisticated chassis tech, and bolder styling. The current-generation RS 3 was introduced for the 2022 model year, and for 2025 it gets updated chassis tuning that makes it even easier to drive fast, plus a subtle facelift. Verdict: With its closest rival, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S, on the way out, the RS 3 is in a class of its own. It combines four-door practicality, sports car-rivalling performance, and an interior worthy of the Audi name. But you’ll pay a lot for all of that. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 306 hp I4 | Engine |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive Train |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower306 hp @ 5400 rpm | Horsepower |
MPG City23 | MPG City |
MPG Highway32 | MPG Highway |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 306 hp I4 | Engine Name2.5L 394 hp I5 |
Torque295 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm | Torque369 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower306 hp @ 5400 rpm | Horsepower394 hp @ 6500 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainAWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City23 | MPG City |
MPG Highway32 | MPG Highway |
Interior | |
Leather SeatsStandard | Leather SeatsOptional |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/MoonroofOptional |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space8.3 cu ft | Cargo Space8.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight3538 lbs | Curb Weight3627 lbs |
Height55.7 in | Height54.8 in |
Length177.3 in | Length178.5 in |
Width78.1 in | Width78.1 in |
Wheelbase103.6 in | Wheelbase103.6 in |
Maximum Payload860 lbs | Maximum Payload860 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
Years produced | 2015-2020 | 2017-2020 |
MSRP | $45,800 | $63,400 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 7.8 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | The all-new 2022 Audi S3 sedan finds a balance between the comparably restrained A3 and over-the-top RS 3, delivering an optimal blend of performance, comfort, luxury, and technology. Despite its entry-level positioning, it exceeds expectations and makes for a smart purchase for spirited drivers, so long as they keep an eye on options. | The RS badge only accompanies the sportiest version of a given Audi model, as demonstrated for the 2025 Audi RS 3. It differentiates itself from the Audi A3 and S3 sedans with a unique engine, more sophisticated chassis tech, and bolder styling. The current-generation RS 3 was introduced for the 2022 model year, and for 2025 it gets updated chassis tuning that makes it even easier to drive fast, plus a subtle facelift. Verdict: With its closest rival, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S, on the way out, the RS 3 is in a class of its own. It combines four-door practicality, sports car-rivalling performance, and an interior worthy of the Audi name. But you’ll pay a lot for all of that. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 306 hp I4 | |
Drive Train | AWD | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 306 hp @ 5400 rpm | |
MPG City | 23 | |
MPG Highway | 32 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 306 hp I4 | 2.5L 394 hp I5 |
Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm | 369 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower | 306 hp @ 5400 rpm | 394 hp @ 6500 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 23 | |
MPG Highway | 32 | |
Interior | ||
Leather Seats | Standard | Optional |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | Optional |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 8.3 cu ft | 8.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3538 lbs | 3627 lbs |
Height | 55.7 in | 54.8 in |
Length | 177.3 in | 178.5 in |
Width | 78.1 in | 78.1 in |
Wheelbase | 103.6 in | 103.6 in |
Maximum Payload | 860 lbs | 860 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |

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