Check out this 2016 Audi RS3 Sportback Quattro for sale (2024)

FAQs

What is the most common problem with the Audi RS3? ›

That said, the RS3 comes with its own faults. The most common issues are associated with the engine, fuel pump, and electronics issues with the top mounts and with the MAF sensor. Most of these issues can be corrected with timely and thorough maintenance before problems arise.

Reliability. The Audi RS3 is not a particularly problematic vehicle if regular maintenance has been done on the vehicle through the dealerships themselves. Any cost-saving measures taken by previous owners could result in you sitting with a problematic RS3, one that could possibly cost you dearly.

Subtle changes are due for Audi's hyper hatchback and saloon

The current generation RS 3 has been a huge hit since it was launched in 2021, so much so that due to supply issues Audi halted orders in early 2023.

Audi has a good reputation for reliability and the A3 on which the RS3 is based scored five stars in Euro NCAP crash safety tests. The car has four-wheel drive – which gives it plenty of grip – and powerful brakes. Both help to make it safer.

On the test drive check that all gears engage cleanly, and watch for other common issues including faulty Haldex clutch system pumps. These are highlighted by repeatedly illuminating the traction control light. Leaks around the bevel boxes or drive shafts should be replaced under warranty on later cars.

Total on-the-road cost for the fast Audi is an eye-popping £56,380, although the standard RS 3 Sportback can be yours for a more reasonable £44,725. It's an expensive choice, especially our model with all its options. But it's also a lot of car for the money. At the moment, I'm a big fan of this mega-hatch.

Yearly servicing might not cost much more than any other Audi A3, but you can expect to spend far more on consumable parts, particularly if you regularly make full use of the RS3's performance. The wide, 19-inch tyres are costly and brake parts won't be cheap, either.

The Audi RS3 is available in two configurations: a hatchback and a sedan. Both are powered by identical engines, meaning both will reach a top speed of 250 km/h.

The biggest competitor for the RS3 in terms of body style and performance is the AMG A45 S, which is outrageously fast and capable as a performance car, the fact that it has a degree of practicality thanks to four doors and a reasonably large boot is a bonus!

How much is the Audi RS3 Sportback? ›

The Audi RS3 has been taken off sale in the UK due to high demand, with demand outstripping supply. The RS3 has been on sale in its current, fourth-generation guise since late 2021.

It's not only a brilliant daily driver, I thought, but an exceptional grand tourer, too. I expected to have to compromise a little on boot space, because this generation of the RS3 is roughly 100 litres down on the standard A3 Sportback in terms of storage capacity due to its quattro four-wheel drive system.

This means that the RS3 Saloon takes 8th place on our countdown, with 61.95% of its value retained. Plus with the facelift model soon to be approaching 3 years old for the earliest examples, expect the retained value to potentially be even higher than it is now.

Audi RS3 Saloon: 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine developing 400hp and 500Nm of torque, powering all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Failure of the Ignition coil of an Audi is its single most common mechanical problem. It is also among the prime reason behind engine misfire. The solution is installment of good quality OE spark plugs and tuning of the engine to factory specs.

It's common for Audi owners to experience issues with the electrical components of their vehicles. Common issues include the central control module, malfunctioning sensors, or problems with the MMI system. It's worth noting that electrical problems can arise in any vehicle brand, and not all Audi models are affected.