2020 Audi RS 3 Review

　　

2020 Audi RS 3 Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　The Audi RS 3 is a true pocket rocket. It combines the small body of the regular A3 sedan with a 394-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. It also comes with a performance suspension, upgraded brakes and, as is typical for a high-performance Audi, standard all-wheel drive. While the styling may be low-key, the distinctive howl from that five-cylinder engine is anything but, and the RS 3 will make its presence known with just a mash of the gas pedal.

　　Most manufacturers save this kind of performance for much larger cars, but strong competition can be found in the BMW M2 Competition, which offers a similar size and similar thrills. Mercedes-Benz has also just introduced its performance version of its A-Class sedan, the AMG A 35. If you're looking for a bit more practicality than a sports car can offer but still value a compact size with plenty of power, the RS 3 is absolutely a future classic.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar 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.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.5/10

　　How does the RS 3 drive? If there's one thing that isn't in question with the RS 3, it's performance. Launch-control acceleration is stellar, braking is confidence-inspiring, and handling is incredibly accessible. But like a good sled dog, this little guy is happiest running at full speed, not trotting through the neighborhood.

　　The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is smooth and quick to answer shift commands from the steering wheel paddles. But sometimes the RS 3 needs a moment to respond to a full throttle request. It often leaves you a step behind where you want to be.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the RS 3? Most sport-oriented vehicles require concessions in terms of comfort. Our test car had the optional Dynamic Plus package, which adds a fixed suspension and carbon-ceramic brakes. With it, the ride is stiffer than the average small sedan's. It's busy but not likely to offend you if you're shopping performance-focused vehicles.

　　Wind noise is well isolated at most speeds, but road noise ranges from mild to moderate depending on speed and road surface. Dynamic mode opens the exhaust flaps, amplifying the unique voice of the inline-five engine. Our test car's ceramic brakes squealed on occasion under light pressure when slowing to a stop.

　　

Interior

8.0/10

　　How’s the interior? Audi's infotainment interface is advanced yet user-friendly. The fully digital gauge cluster takes a little time to learn but is highly functional once you get the hang of it.

　　Entry through either the front or rear doors is shockingly easy thanks to the swept-back door openings. Forward visibility is good thanks to the low door-mounted mirrors, though the top of the windshield might impede visibility for taller drivers. The rear headrests take up about 25% of the rear view and cannot be collapsed out of the way.

　　

Technology

8.0/10

　　How’s the tech? The RS 3's excellent audio and navigation systems are both pleasing and easy to use, and integrating your smartphone couldn't be more seamless. We did, however, expect more advanced driver aids at this price.

　　Our test RS 3 came with parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring and a rearview camera. Adaptive cruise control is optional, which is a bit surprising at this price point. Some of our drivers thought the stability control system steps in too aggressively during enthusiastic driving.

　　

Storage

8.0/10

　　How’s the storage? The RS 3 is an example of how small sedans can still be very useful. At 10 cubic feet, its trunk is about 3 cubic feet smaller than the class average. But because the cabin has been well thought out, there is less compromise than you might expect. A rubberized area ahead of cupholders is a perfect space for a smartphone or pair of sunglasses. The door pockets are a decent size and will fit a large water bottle.

　　

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

　　How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the RS 3 will get 22 mpg (19 city/28 highway), which is about average for a small performance sedan. We averaged 19.4 mpg over the course of two weeks of driving. On our 115-mile evaluation route, we observed 24.3 mpg. We expect you'll be able to match the EPA numbers if you aren't constantly hard on the throttle.

　　

Value

7.5/10

　　Is the RS 3 a good value? The RS 3 might not be the bargain of the segment, but its price premium isn't unwarranted. Though a few small areas cheapen the feel of the RS 3, it still has one of the nicest-designed and highest build-quality interiors in the class.

　　The main things that make the RS 3 feel a little cheap are the manual seat adjusters and plastic paddle shifters (we'd expect solid-feeling metal shifters for a performance car like this). Otherwise, the rest of the cabin is solidly constructed.

　　

Wildcard

8.5/10

　　Audi always nails the design and temperament of its cars, and for that we applaud it. We love the way the RS 3 drives and handles when you're really going for it. But if you're just driving around town, the fun factor is only mediocre.

　　If Audi does one thing well, time and time again, it's understated style. The RS 3 is definitely a sleeper sport sedan.

　　

Which RS 3 does zzdcar recommend?

With no trim levels to choose from, we'd option the RS 3 up with the Dynamic package for the wider tires and the sport exhaust system. We'd also spring for the Navigation package, which includes the slick, fully digital instrument panel. We'd urge you to skip the stiff RS sport suspension, even if it is a no-cost option, unless maximum performance is a top priority.

　　

2020 Audi RS 3 models

The 2020 Audi RS 3 is offered in only one trim with several option packages available as the way to add equipment. The RS 3 comes standard with a 394-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Highlighted features and desirable option packages include:

　　Every RS 3 comes with:

　　LED headlights Leather sport seats An adaptive suspension 14-speaker audio system Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integrationThe optional Dynamic package includes:

　　Staggered-width 19-inch wheels Sport exhaustGet the Driver Assistance package if you want:

　　Traffic-adaptive cruise control Lane keeping assist Blind-spot monitoringThe Navigation package adds:

　　Digital instrument panel (Virtual Cockpit) An integrated navigation system Handwriting recognition touchpad

　　

2020 RS 3 Highlights

　　

Base MSRP	$56,200
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$205/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	10.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles