Volkswagen Golf R vs Audi RS 3

The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is the hotter of VW’s two hot hatchbacks, boasting more power than its Golf GTI platform mate, plus a standard all-wheel-drive system (AWD), known as 4Motion, and a commensurately higher base price that puts it in the same competitive set as the Honda Civic Type R and Toyota GR Corolla. The current-generation Golf R was launched as a 2022 model but gains a handful of small updates for 2025, including a new touchscreen infotainment system and two new styling packages.

Verdict: It’s hard to fault the Golf R’s performance capabilities and everyday usability, but the same can be said of its GTI sibling.

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.