I really appreciate the fly-bys. I know how much time that would take to setup and ensure you got a good angle & sound for only a 3 second clip inserted into the video. It's the details that matter and make your reviews stand out amongst the rest.
Other things that help his reviews a lot, imho, is his access to fantastic roads, high level of driving skill (1-2s behind pro drivers at tracks), a history of experience with wide variety of cars, and a level-headed non-fanboy approach to reviews. He’s the commensurate professional, not the typical YT “influencer.”
I have a 2018 RS3 and I can definitely attest to your comments. It's a surprising little rocket and the factory exhaust sound is absolutely amazing. Very impressive too, I took mine to a local drag strip and it put down an 11.92 sec at 117 mph not bad for a stock car.
Yes . Must buy, own, feel .. live! Rs3 is kinda the perfect all in one package.. won't be enough for some but plenty for most. In-line 5 cylinder sounds like magic! Blaze on!!
I may be biased but I have not seen Matt give this much praise to a car since Gunther Werks. You sold me! P.S. Video wise, amazing shots loved the road. Please go back with more cool cars!
Just want to say that the smoking tire thumbnails are much *much* better in the last few months. Consistent, recognizable, well composed, a little fun, and clear - without being clickbaity. Well done.
What have you heard is the 5th cylinder being finally called out for what it really is a fancy lad, extra, extremely extravagant over the top cylinder and deserves to be obliterated.
we really need to keep them. They strike a good balance between 6's and 4's, and sound better than the latter. With hybrids and plug ins being favored right now by many companies, there's no reason not to keep i5's.
Any tune on your cars? Any reliability issues to watch out for? I'm thinking of a '22 RS3 as a daily replacement (went from C63 AMG to M3 to others first). Thanks!
We got pre particulate filter in uk an 18 plate. And 400 out the box. We got revo stage 1 and stage 2 gearbox tune. Rolling road 480 and 530nm . Not too shaby. Deals wiv 95% of trafik. Good show from accross the pond ❤
@@drunkpolack7612 that’s a terrible comparison cause a gt can’t rip in rain, can’t handle any snow, and doesn’t handle like an rs3 period, or be as comfortable
Just stating how much fun Matt looks like he's having and for yet how slow they are stock is pretty cool non the less. Could care less about mustangs at this point in my life, the stigma of them being kids cars is actually a real thing these days which I don't like being cornered into especially driving late at night. Kind of like being profiled lol.
@@drunkpolack7612 Can the mustang fit 4 people comfortably like Rs3? no, can the mustang GT do a 7.35 nurburgring like the Rs3? No, can the mustang grip? no, can the mustang GT do an 11.8 second 1/4 mile like Rs3? No, can mustang GT do a 3.4 second 0-60? No! Is the Mustang GT luxurious like RS3? No.
Yes the previous gen had them too. They used the same caliper as the steel rotors (part of the GT8 line from brembo) but different pads. This generation uses the same steel caliper but the ceramic option caliper is now the Porsche 19z, following in line with the rest of the brand.
@@jonhaze7537I have them on my new RS3 sportback. Be careful in the wet, as they absorb moisture and that means you need to press harder on the pedal. Also, I hope you bedded them in properly. Audi don't tell you how important that is and how to go about it. I was very gentle with the brakes for the first 500 miles.
How does the RS3 compare to a CT4-V Blackwing? Base they are low $60k and optioned up $70k. Which one is better to daily drive and do a few track days a year?
Going off matt's other vids and his podcast, The blackwing is just as dialed in chassis wise, but the blackwing weighs like 400 lbs more. Also, its 400 ish horsepower in the RS3 vs 480 in the blackwing. RS3 sounds better though. Blackwing probably has a little better steering feel than the RS3. The RS3 has better tech and features, and probably just a nicer interior overall. I'd say buy which ever one you like the look of more, or if one has a better warranty than the other. They'll both kill it on the track and be real comfy daily driving.
It would be a tough call, and ultimately comes down to a) do you want to drive stick? and b) is RWD good for you all year round? If you want a stick car with RWD, blackwing is the tits. If you want the AWD for winter and don't mind driving automatic, i'd rather the RS3.
Winter weather isn't an issue in my state. How will the total cost of ownership compare (maintenance, parts, resale, ect)? I'm coming from a F80 M3 manual and Type R. A base RS3 at $60K leaves $10k for a cheap track car but you loose the manual trans in the RS3.
@@Section501K that's pretty funny. I drive an M2 right now and also had a Type R. I know I'm not Matt, but I work for a dealer group with both Cadillac and Audi stores. I can tell you that the Caddy will cost less in maintenance in the long run. Expensive maintenance is just the nature of German makes. And after you factor in the RS3's more complicated drivetrain and baked in tech, more can potentially go wrong. If you're like me and you're not ready to part with a manual, get the Blackwing. You won't be disappointed.
BIG fan of the 5-cyl form. Have a Volvo C30 T5 also with a 2.5T 5 and it's exhaust sounds SO cool. Quickish but nowhere near on the level of Audis new beast. Good job, Audi. Now import the HATCH (and 6MT) version PLEASE!
@@jim1013yyf Most production cars will have issues with heating. That's why people upgrade their brakes and cooling systems when tracking cars. That's not a slight against the RS3, you're just a hater looking for anything to poke holes in.
@@InfamousTub bruh I’m just pointing out a fact. I do plenty track days and I’m fully aware that most heavyweight high-hp cars from factory wouldn’t last more than 10mins of all-out time attack
@@jim1013yyf The RS3 isn’t heavy weight neither high horsepower, it makes the almost same horsepower as a chevy tahoe and RS3 weighs 3500 lbs which is good by todays standards due to increased safety and emission regulations
Not to mention how tune-friendly alot of these Audi's are. I've seen some insanely quick RS3s with just downpipe, intake and a tune. I personally own a stage 2 8p A3 and it's pretty damn quick. Couldn't imagine a whole nother cylinder with a bigger turbo..
A lot of RS3 that get tuned end up with blown engines. I'm leaving my new RS3 stock, it's fast enough and mine has ceramics, so the brakes out perform the car 😎
Audi certainly has come a long way from the early days when Chris Harris’ calling it the “terminal under steer” when he pitted the RS3 against the BMW M135i, to now your comment of an oversteer with the latest, certainly is progress. Still the wider front tires than the rear, irks me no end.
Why? You can't see it. I'm running this stagger with 18x9" ET30 and same offset front and rear, and even with me knowing what I'm looking at I can't see any difference in fact, I'd swear the rears are wider looking at the car. Get over it man...
The rs6 is pretty hot cause fast af wagon and its one of 2 cars that continue what the rs2 started the other being a rs4 wagon but those arent in North America
Are the real one takes are going to comeback one day? New cars are cool but videos with real people that build their own thing coming to see you beat the hell out of it is priceless. Im really missing the OG one takes
I love the RS3 it's my favorite RS car as the rest are to big and heavy to fling around. The RS3 is not light but it's fast, fun, and very tunable. Plus it's a great daily
Attempt number two of identifying Matt's watch of the day : Rolex Submariner "Kermit" , most likely Matt's personal watch gifted to him by his dad for his college graduation and the watch that kinda got him into watches because one of Matt's friends pointed out to him that it's kinda rare at a party and from there Matt fell into the watch rabbit hole. This is all if I'm remembering the first couple episodes of the watchandlisten podcast correctly. Great Piece.
@@joeracer302 It's just that i have a really good memory and i've watched about 30 episodes of the Watchandlisten podcast. Not specifically researching Matt lol
Great car and content Matt but my one gripe is that the previous gen was a much better design. Dislike the gaping blacked-out front fascia on this new gen.
£71,500 in the UK showrooms with a few hundred miles on. My 2019 RS3 in March 22 was £50k from an Audi dealer, near on fully loaded in Ara Crystal, 12,300 miles...that's about 10k more than would have been, but the current 'climate' dictates the inflated prices out here.
Yes!!! God what a breath of fresh air that there’s still some free thinkers out there. I do NOT see his appeal. At. All. I won’t talk trash but he truly is the last person I could ever see myself watching for a review of anything. Especially a car.
Nothing to be excited about any ev. I like my gaming pc i dont really get excited. My 2015 rs5 puts a smile on my face every damn minute i am driving it
I will buy this car once the price goes down cant wait for the newer tuning options. Got an 2010 Audi A4 2.0T and a 2015 Audi S4 3.0T, now I need an RS
It's why I have a B7 RS4 for so long. What do I buy that give me this much performance at its price point for the last 10 years? RS3 is just like this, a tune and downpipe puts you at the performance level of the most expensive cars. Also B8.5 S4s w/ Stage 2 are beastly too🤗
Good question. RS5 quite a bit heavier and probably its reflexes aren't as sharp.. Prettier though. That's worth a google. Tuned, the RS5 would be the faster car I'm sure (and who wouldn't tune either of these lol)
I spoke to Audi. Certain dealerships will receive 3-4 RS3s. ALL way over sticker. Think $80s. Allocations are all booked out solid. RS5 is the only option, unless you can pull serious stringers
The US should be pleased with what they get. They dont get the BMW M3 touring either. Only europe, so europeans have something special as well. audi could take the whole RS range out of the USA as well.
Just got my 24 RS3 a few weeks back with the Bridgestone potenzas. I'm wondering if the PS4S would be the right tire to get once these run out. Live in Florida and roads are super smooth, no potholes, so I'd like something really grippy, but not for the track, just for daily.
beautiful blue RS3! ive always wanted one! last year a man that worked near me had a grey one so i got to see it up close for a while and fell in love. it had tinted windows. there is also a pretty badass RS4 in my area of southern Maine
They definitely stepped the interior game up in this one. But I love the 18 steering wheel, "shift" knob, and round rpm guage. Looks like the rpm bar is the default now.
Yeah I can't get on board with the styling of the new one vs my 2018. Look at the bonnet shut line. Checkout how the front fender line of the old one runs through the headlight detail. That level of consideration goes through every line. The new one is a bit less cohesive.
Previous gen owners hugging their old cars always crack me up, of course they haven't owned or driven the new one, which is better in every way - period. 2023 RS3 in Tango Red here and it kicks azz (yes I've driven the old one, no thanks!)
I really dont like a lot of performance SUVs but the RSQ3 actually makes sense to me. Its more practical for daily duties and as the RS3 isnt exactly know for being light on its feet I consider that over this, if they hadnt made it so ugly this season.
I think I'd skip the dynamic pack and just upgrade to PS4S or PS5S (when released) when the P-Zeroes are worn. I would do some track days here and there but not enough to warrant the ceramics and I prefer a stronger bite at the top of the pedal.
@Miata Master yeah but ur concern is "sigma are junked" becuz "they lose focus" And here u are telling other stuff not relevant to the topic. I dont care about ur fuji lenses becuz it is not the topic and its basic knowledge in house lenses are better than third party
@Miata Master and sigma are know for their ready to post render i dont know why ur saying they are flat either ur sigma lenses 2 decades old or u really dont have the knowledge about new lenses
Was really interested in this vehicle, but sadly they will not sell it in Canada. A real shame, would of been nice to be able to own a 5 cylinder. Also I don't know what Audi is thinking not putting ventilated seats in an RS model. An annoying omittance for an otherwise fantastic car.
Matt really appreciate you doing the good work here and finding out the truth of the torque differential and deciphering the manufacturer jargon. Also love the podcast !
do you think the Dynamic plus package is a must have? if i plan on tuning and adding personal mods to it i assume id get to the brakes eventually but anyways just came for some input thanks!!
Is the RS3 actually the fastest MQB vehicle? Please correct me if I'm wrong, but the TT-RS has the same 5cyl powertrain, and it weighs a couple hundred pounds less. Glad the flyby audio is here this time btw.
The TT-RS is slightly down on torque being from the previous generation. The TT-RS and previous gen RS3 had 354lb-ft vs 369lb-ft in this new RS3. Also, dynamically, the new RS3 should be substantially improved over the TT-RS given that this has the new rear differential, whereas both previous cars (RS3 and TT-RS) were just open-diffs.
yes, pretty much exactly the same system as the new Golf R. the S3 gets left out, that's why it's not a great buy you're missing the super cool trick diff setup
@@myemailiscool thanks that’s what I was suspecting with the S3. Seems as though VW/Audi is only putting the torque vectoring in the top of the line models.
@@senorfreeze4662 indeed, the S3 i guess is if you want a compact sporty car but desire the audi brand prestige + tech. Granted the Golf infotainment is horrible and that right there probably pushes people to spend the extra $9k to get the S3 lol 😂 gotta think that most owners will use the drift mode like 10 times max during their ownership period, it's a party trick for sure. but very cool
Assuming natural German car progression (excluding Porsche), every new generation cars handle less dynamically and become less special… I’d highly disagree. And that assumption of the second gen audi being lamer isn’t outlandish given that they absolutely fucking neutered the sound of the car. First Gen RS3s were one of the best sounding stock cars ever made and now this one sounds as special as a golf GTI. Used 2018 RS3 > Corolla GR > 2nd Gen RS3
or, do what I did, and spend half as much as the corolla on a used S3 and put a few choice mods on it - making it as quick as the RS3 for 1/3 the money.
Hey Matt, the 3.6 0-60 is thar according to Audi or your own measurements? Also did you notice any signs of heat soak in the desert? I'd ask about brake fade but you weren't really hard on them.
An Rs3 is on our short list for our next car, my question for a daily is if the new torque curve makes it more of a dog in dailyl driving? The old RS3 was making 350tq from 1700rpm on where as this care doesn't make peak torque until 3500rpm. According to Car and Driver the old car was .4 secs faster 5-60, meaning this car would be slower in daily driving to me. I'd be curious everyone thoughts driving them back to back?
Thank Christ Audi have redeemed themselves with this model RS3 & finally have some great colours, & much better styling that differentiates it from its smaller brother S3. The more aggressive side treatment with the pumped out guards/wings/fenders was well overdue, and it’s the first RS3 that has shown its potential. Still can’t understand the wider front wheels though, very counterintuitive.
I really wish Audi would bring over the wagon version of the RS3 to the US. I know Audi said they won't, but I can still complain about it on the internet.
It's a shame this car is not available here in Canada for model year 2022. I have a 2019 RS3 and would have upgraded to it if it were available to me. What can you do?
@@hellonwheels1332 You were actually able to order? My dealership said that they had no way of ordering. Been waiting!!! You mind giving out your dealership?
@@robhall8271 Yes sir its a preorder dealer is still waiting for Audi to start accepting them put 1000 down and got it in writing no mark ups or addons 65440 plus tax
@@hellonwheels1332 do you mind sharing which dealership? I am test driving an S3 my local dealership has just received but they are still telling me I cannot order or even preorder an RS3
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
I really appreciate the fly-bys. I know how much time that would take to setup and ensure you got a good angle & sound for only a 3 second clip inserted into the video. It's the details that matter and make your reviews stand out amongst the rest.
Other things that help his reviews a lot, imho, is his access to fantastic roads, high level of driving skill (1-2s behind pro drivers at tracks), a history of experience with wide variety of cars, and a level-headed non-fanboy approach to reviews. He’s the commensurate professional, not the typical YT “influencer.”
He has a team/camera crew to set it up.
Doug doesn't approve this POV 😂😂
@@DeanBKK Thank you, it's always important to remember that all successful people step on the backs of others :)
@@Parabloop3r if you say so, then ok 😄
I have a 2018 RS3 and I can definitely attest to your comments. It's a surprising little rocket and the factory exhaust sound is absolutely amazing. Very impressive too, I took mine to a local drag strip and it put down an 11.92 sec at 117 mph not bad for a stock car.
That 5 cylinder engine sound so good!
Yes . Must buy, own, feel .. live!
Rs3 is kinda the perfect all in one package.. won't be enough for some but plenty for most.
In-line 5 cylinder sounds like magic! Blaze on!!
I may be biased but I have not seen Matt give this much praise to a car since Gunther Werks. You sold me!
P.S. Video wise, amazing shots loved the road. Please go back with more cool cars!
Just want to say that the smoking tire thumbnails are much *much* better in the last few months. Consistent, recognizable, well composed, a little fun, and clear - without being clickbaity. Well done.
Thanks God
Crazy to think that these 5 cylinder engines won’t be around much longer. Seems a waste of talent. The engineers killed it with this motor!
yup
What have you heard is the 5th cylinder being finally called out for what it really is a fancy lad, extra, extremely extravagant over the top cylinder and deserves to be obliterated.
This is the only 5 cylinder
we really need to keep them. They strike a good balance between 6's and 4's, and sound better than the latter. With hybrids and plug ins being favored right now by many companies, there's no reason not to keep i5's.
One of my dream cars. Took a little to get use to the new facelift.
Great video. I had a 19 rs3 and now a 22 TTRS and it’s such a great platform and drivetrain.
Any tune on your cars? Any reliability issues to watch out for? I'm thinking of a '22 RS3 as a daily replacement (went from C63 AMG to M3 to others first). Thanks!
@@VersanGetryx GIAC on my 2012, Unitronic on the RS3, no issues at all.
Enjoy those sweet rides bro! Hope to have one soon 🙏RS3’s are holding prices so well from what I have seen!
@@wickedrhombusracing4218 Unitronic is the only way to go for the RS3 and TTRS
We got pre particulate filter in uk an 18 plate. And 400 out the box. We got revo stage 1 and stage 2 gearbox tune. Rolling road 480 and 530nm . Not too shaby. Deals wiv 95% of trafik. Good show from accross the pond ❤
With this being the last 5-cylinder we'll probably ever see, this is a must have. Hoping to get one in a couple years
I'm kinda leaning that way too....
Sound fixed, well done!
Great review as always. Can’t wait to get my hands on the RS 3 one day
and to think its a 12 second 60-130 car as it sits stock. Excited for this one, about time Audi made the rear end happy.
A 35k mustang gt will do that 🤷♂️😂
@@drunkpolack7612 that’s a terrible comparison cause a gt can’t rip in rain, can’t handle any snow, and doesn’t handle like an rs3 period, or be as comfortable
Just stating how much fun Matt looks like he's having and for yet how slow they are stock is pretty cool non the less. Could care less about mustangs at this point in my life, the stigma of them being kids cars is actually a real thing these days which I don't like being cornered into especially driving late at night. Kind of like being profiled lol.
@@drunkpolack7612 Can the mustang fit 4 people comfortably like Rs3? no, can the mustang GT do a 7.35 nurburgring like the Rs3? No, can the mustang grip? no, can the mustang GT do an 11.8 second 1/4 mile like Rs3? No, can mustang GT do a 3.4 second 0-60? No! Is the Mustang GT luxurious like RS3? No.
@@aimxdy8680 man calm down hater Jesus
CERAMICS?!?!? Crazy but awesome, especially when people are going to tune these to 800hp+. Nice to have that as a factory option.
Yes the previous gen had them too. They used the same caliper as the steel rotors (part of the GT8 line from brembo) but different pads. This generation uses the same steel caliper but the ceramic option caliper is now the Porsche 19z, following in line with the rest of the brand.
I have ceramics on my RS3 as well.. they're perfection
@@jonhaze7537 no issues in the cold or anything? Considering this with the dynamic package
@@jonhaze7537I have them on my new RS3 sportback. Be careful in the wet, as they absorb moisture and that means you need to press harder on the pedal. Also, I hope you bedded them in properly. Audi don't tell you how important that is and how to go about it. I was very gentle with the brakes for the first 500 miles.
How does the RS3 compare to a CT4-V Blackwing? Base they are low $60k and optioned up $70k. Which one is better to daily drive and do a few track days a year?
Going off matt's other vids and his podcast, The blackwing is just as dialed in chassis wise, but the blackwing weighs like 400 lbs more. Also, its 400 ish horsepower in the RS3 vs 480 in the blackwing. RS3 sounds better though. Blackwing probably has a little better steering feel than the RS3. The RS3 has better tech and features, and probably just a nicer interior overall. I'd say buy which ever one you like the look of more, or if one has a better warranty than the other. They'll both kill it on the track and be real comfy daily driving.
Depends on whether you really want a manual transmission or not. Only one of those cars has that option.
It would be a tough call, and ultimately comes down to a) do you want to drive stick? and b) is RWD good for you all year round? If you want a stick car with RWD, blackwing is the tits. If you want the AWD for winter and don't mind driving automatic, i'd rather the RS3.
Winter weather isn't an issue in my state.
How will the total cost of ownership compare (maintenance, parts, resale, ect)?
I'm coming from a F80 M3 manual and Type R. A base RS3 at $60K leaves $10k for a cheap track car but you loose the manual trans in the RS3.
@@Section501K that's pretty funny. I drive an M2 right now and also had a Type R. I know I'm not Matt, but I work for a dealer group with both Cadillac and Audi stores. I can tell you that the Caddy will cost less in maintenance in the long run. Expensive maintenance is just the nature of German makes. And after you factor in the RS3's more complicated drivetrain and baked in tech, more can potentially go wrong.
If you're like me and you're not ready to part with a manual, get the Blackwing. You won't be disappointed.
I’m so happy they fixed the understeer on this RS3!
BIG fan of the 5-cyl form. Have a Volvo C30 T5 also with a 2.5T 5 and it's exhaust sounds SO cool. Quickish but nowhere near on the level of Audis new beast. Good job, Audi. Now import the HATCH (and 6MT) version PLEASE!
I've been waiting for your review before ordering one. Glad to hear you like it so much. I've been very excited about it!
I would love one of these for endurance racing.
it would be 5 laps before this car overheats the brake, diff, and engine.
@@jim1013yyf Most production cars will have issues with heating. That's why people upgrade their brakes and cooling systems when tracking cars. That's not a slight against the RS3, you're just a hater looking for anything to poke holes in.
@@InfamousTub bruh I’m just pointing out a fact. I do plenty track days and I’m fully aware that most heavyweight high-hp cars from factory wouldn’t last more than 10mins of all-out time attack
@@jim1013yyf The RS3 isn’t heavy weight neither high horsepower, it makes the almost same horsepower as a chevy tahoe and RS3 weighs 3500 lbs which is good by todays standards due to increased safety and emission regulations
@@aimxdy8680 😂😂sure.
Not to mention how tune-friendly alot of these Audi's are. I've seen some insanely quick RS3s with just downpipe, intake and a tune.
I personally own a stage 2 8p A3 and it's pretty damn quick. Couldn't imagine a whole nother cylinder with a bigger turbo..
A lot of RS3 that get tuned end up with blown engines. I'm leaving my new RS3 stock, it's fast enough and mine has ceramics, so the brakes out perform the car 😎
@@mauricetoussaint7283that's the right call imo. The powerband is so well tuned from the factory I'd hate to upset it.
Audi certainly has come a long way from the early days when Chris Harris’ calling it the “terminal under steer” when he pitted the RS3 against the BMW M135i, to now your comment of an oversteer with the latest, certainly is progress. Still the wider front tires than the rear, irks me no end.
Why? You can't see it. I'm running this stagger with 18x9" ET30 and same offset front and rear, and even with me knowing what I'm looking at I can't see any difference in fact, I'd swear the rears are wider looking at the car. Get over it man...
In my opinion, this is the best car in Audi's current lineup besides the R8. What an awesome little pocket rocket!
The rs6 is pretty hot cause fast af wagon and its one of 2 cars that continue what the rs2 started the other being a rs4 wagon but those arent in North America
@@lucasschmitz4588 Definitely love the RS4 and RS6 as well
Are the real one takes are going to comeback one day? New cars are cool but videos with real people that build their own thing coming to see you beat the hell out of it is priceless. Im really missing the OG one takes
I love the RS3 it's my favorite RS car as the rest are to big and heavy to fling around. The RS3 is not light but it's fast, fun, and very tunable. Plus it's a great daily
ttrs
@@A4rings110 I need 4 seats sadly or I would also be looking at a R8 used
Wow, that RS3 is amazing! Seems like a lot of bang for the buck. Great review.
No it’s not lol
very overpriced and VW Audi products start deteriorating after 20k mikes
@@mikemayers8672resale prices say otherwise.
Attempt number two of identifying Matt's watch of the day : Rolex Submariner "Kermit" , most likely Matt's personal watch gifted to him by his dad for his college graduation and the watch that kinda got him into watches because one of Matt's friends pointed out to him that it's kinda rare at a party and from there Matt fell into the watch rabbit hole. This is all if I'm remembering the first couple episodes of the watchandlisten podcast correctly.
Great Piece.
Good spot! Pops gave it to me as a going away present when I moved to CA to start TST but otherwise right on the money!
@@TheSmokingTire do these random internet nerds that know all your history ever creep you out?
@@joeracer302 It's just that i have a really good memory and i've watched about 30 episodes of the Watchandlisten podcast. Not specifically researching Matt lol
Great car and content Matt but my one gripe is that the previous gen was a much better design. Dislike the gaping blacked-out front fascia on this new gen.
Agree only like this front end on the rs7
100% agree
Yeah, last gen was so sophisticated, subtle but sporty. This one resembles a Kia too much lol.
£71,500 in the UK showrooms with a few hundred miles on. My 2019 RS3 in March 22 was £50k from an Audi dealer, near on fully loaded in Ara Crystal, 12,300 miles...that's about 10k more than would have been, but the current 'climate' dictates the inflated prices out here.
“Sticky icky icky” quote of the day 😂
Good summary Matt - exactly what I think with mine 👍
Now if I could just get the drift mode added to my '19 RS3 (w/ the better exhaust sound and exterior design) that would be the perfect one!😄
You can buy a Haldex controller and transfer more power to the rear .
I think the previous gen looks nicer so hang onto it!
New RS3 way better looking than the 8v.
This and the SQ5 would be a dream Audi garage for me.
BA9's are so underrated
So much better than Doug Demuro’s review. That man just says a lot of nothing. Subbed
Yes!!!
God what a breath of fresh air that there’s still some free thinkers out there. I do NOT see his appeal. At. All.
I won’t talk trash but he truly is the last person I could ever see myself watching for a review of anything. Especially a car.
@@ac3tate909 I agree. He reviews every car with a similar script instead of focusing on what that type of buyer would be interested in.
That one time when he gave a 190e a 5 in reliability
this one of my favorite cars, dig the content man. lotso love from South Africa✌
I'm more excited about these kinds of cars than newest EVs to be honest. We need another review of this car but in the canyons!
Nothing to be excited about any ev. I like my gaming pc i dont really get excited. My 2015 rs5 puts a smile on my face every damn minute i am driving it
Was there any interior rattles of any kind going over bumps, because I heard it had some which really surprised me a lot?
likely camera items that are loose in the door panel cubbies or random stuff. Very likely not actual rattles from loose trim pieces.
I will buy this car once the price goes down cant wait for the newer tuning options. Got an 2010 Audi A4 2.0T and a 2015 Audi S4 3.0T, now I need an RS
Have a 11 A4 2.0T, got me thinking the same!
It's why I have a B7 RS4 for so long. What do I buy that give me this much performance at its price point for the last 10 years? RS3 is just like this, a tune and downpipe puts you at the performance level of the most expensive cars. Also B8.5 S4s w/ Stage 2 are beastly too🤗
Would you be able to say roughly how this compares to an RS5? Deciding between either a lightly used RS5 or picking one of these up brand new.
Good question. RS5 quite a bit heavier and probably its reflexes aren't as sharp.. Prettier though. That's worth a google. Tuned, the RS5 would be the faster car I'm sure (and who wouldn't tune either of these lol)
I spoke to Audi. Certain dealerships will receive 3-4 RS3s. ALL way over sticker. Think $80s. Allocations are all booked out solid. RS5 is the only option, unless you can pull serious stringers
Still makes no sense why the wagon/hatch version is not offered in the US. At least make it a option when you build your own car.
The US should be pleased with what they get. They dont get the BMW M3 touring either. Only europe, so europeans have something special as well. audi could take the whole RS range out of the USA as well.
Just got my 24 RS3 a few weeks back with the Bridgestone potenzas. I'm wondering if the PS4S would be the right tire to get once these run out. Live in Florida and roads are super smooth, no potholes, so I'd like something really grippy, but not for the track, just for daily.
beautiful blue RS3! ive always wanted one! last year a man that worked near me had a grey one so i got to see it up close for a while and fell in love. it had tinted windows. there is also a pretty badass RS4 in my area of southern Maine
Love the reverse stagger
Man that torque vectoring would be so useful for track days. But I think I will keep my 2018 RS3. I'm not sure what will replace it, I love the car.
I can’t get rid of my 18 neither. Love the exterior and interior so much better. Interior is such a classic.
They definitely stepped the interior game up in this one. But I love the 18 steering wheel, "shift" knob, and round rpm guage. Looks like the rpm bar is the default now.
Yeah I can't get on board with the styling of the new one vs my 2018. Look at the bonnet shut line. Checkout how the front fender line of the old one runs through the headlight detail. That level of consideration goes through every line. The new one is a bit less cohesive.
The previous gen body looks better and the interior I like better too. Less like sitting in a video game.
Previous gen owners hugging their old cars always crack me up, of course they haven't owned or driven the new one, which is better in every way - period. 2023 RS3 in Tango Red here and it kicks azz (yes I've driven the old one, no thanks!)
7:40 around Nurburgring is the same as a 718 GTS 4.0 for $30k--$40k less. And this has a back seat. This car is no slouch.
With the caveat of P Zeros vs Trofeo Rs but yes, very very fast.
I really dont like a lot of performance SUVs but the RSQ3 actually makes sense to me. Its more practical for daily duties and as the RS3 isnt exactly know for being light on its feet I consider that over this, if they hadnt made it so ugly this season.
You have to see it in person, it has great presence, especially tango red
Absolutely love this car and the content ! Keep up the swag videos ‼️
Great review and a great daily. Still would prefer the hatch though.
So do we, but we still are ordering one.
@@1vtbear hahahaha, probably right though
For real. Screw car manufactures for not giving us the option here...
Audi should have done a different trunk lid on this thing.
The Matte Black wheels can also be had on the Black Optic Plus Package. You will also have to get the RS Sport Exhaust
The sport luxury subcompact class is so good. Ct4 - v BW, rs3, m2 comp all so desirable
I still prefer my 18 body style much better. But it’s cool they keep bringing them into the US. Amazing drivetrains.
yeah im surprised, I barely see any of them, just normal s3
OMG that road is glorious!
Crazy how pretty much every American RS3 I see is the saloon version. I don't think I've ever seen ONE in Europe! They're all hatches over here!
No hatch in US
I think I'd skip the dynamic pack and just upgrade to PS4S or PS5S (when released) when the P-Zeroes are worn. I would do some track days here and there but not enough to warrant the ceramics and I prefer a stronger bite at the top of the pedal.
@thesmokingtire Funny you were at spring mountain. I have a ct4 v blackwing. I came from an RS3, would you make the switch back?
Edit - had no idea how many people asked the same thing. Hope you enjoyed Pahrump.
#1 RS3 review on YT, hands down. I only wish VW Group would import the RS3 wagon. THAT is my European dream car.
Shots fired Sigma ☺️
So glad that Sony is finally giving us new APS-C Lenses
I mean sigma basically is the reason why sony apcs is still alive
@Miata Master Um, ok.
Been using my OG Sigma 30mm for almost a decade with no issue
@Miata Master sigma just launch their sigma trio of primes for fuji and reviewers says its works very good
@Miata Master yeah but ur concern is "sigma are junked" becuz "they lose focus"
And here u are telling other stuff not relevant to the topic. I dont care about ur fuji lenses becuz it is not the topic and its basic knowledge in house lenses are better than third party
@Miata Master and sigma are know for their ready to post render i dont know why ur saying they are flat either ur sigma lenses 2 decades old or u really dont have the knowledge about new lenses
I have the 2015 hatchback version. Stage 2 with 471 bhp and 575 ft/lb torque. It’s mental.
I wouldnt call the rs3 a sleeper.... I think by now people realise these are savage on the rd.
Yea, I'm confused by the video title too. 10 years ago the RS3 was less known in America, but not so much any more.
@@Lazirus951 they call it a sleeper because it's kind of unassuming unless your looking for the badging it's "just another" audi
Was really interested in this vehicle, but sadly they will not sell it in Canada. A real shame, would of been nice to be able to own a 5 cylinder. Also I don't know what Audi is thinking not putting ventilated seats in an RS model. An annoying omittance for an otherwise fantastic car.
Awesome review Matt, looks wicked fast on the flybys
For a fun daily driver with a 3-4 track days a year how does this stand to the Golf R or CT4-V Blackwing?
Dealerships in California are asking up to $20k over msrp for these. I like them and would honestly get one. But $85k for one is bananas.
Matt really appreciate you doing the good work here and finding out the truth of the torque differential and deciphering the manufacturer jargon. Also love the podcast !
Too bad we can't get the proper wagon/hatch version in North America. That would have been awesome.
Sedan is better
do you think the Dynamic plus package is a must have? if i plan on tuning and adding personal mods to it i assume id get to the brakes eventually but anyways just came for some input thanks!!
Great review, you summed up this car perfectly and answered all my questions
I’ve got a tune and a few other things on my a7 making about 450hp and 460tq, I’d still love to have a v8 though
Is the RS3 actually the fastest MQB vehicle? Please correct me if I'm wrong, but the TT-RS has the same 5cyl powertrain, and it weighs a couple hundred pounds less. Glad the flyby audio is here this time btw.
But ttrs is based on 7 gen golf,new rs3 is based on 8 gen golf
The TT-RS is slightly down on torque being from the previous generation. The TT-RS and previous gen RS3 had 354lb-ft vs 369lb-ft in this new RS3.
Also, dynamically, the new RS3 should be substantially improved over the TT-RS given that this has the new rear differential, whereas both previous cars (RS3 and TT-RS) were just open-diffs.
Yeah TTRS might be faster in a drag race but on track i belive this new RS3 would take the cake
Tt might be faster by one tenth to 60
I don’t see a switch to shut off the start stop feature. Can you shut it off ? Thanks..
Is this torque vectoring system similar to what’s in the new Mk8 Golf R? The new R also can send 100% of 50% to one rear tire.
yes, pretty much exactly the same system as the new Golf R. the S3 gets left out, that's why it's not a great buy you're missing the super cool trick diff setup
@@myemailiscool thanks that’s what I was suspecting with the S3.
Seems as though VW/Audi is only putting the torque vectoring in the top of the line models.
@@senorfreeze4662 indeed, the S3 i guess is if you want a compact sporty car but desire the audi brand prestige + tech. Granted the Golf infotainment is horrible and that right there probably pushes people to spend the extra $9k to get the S3 lol 😂 gotta think that most owners will use the drift mode like 10 times max during their ownership period, it's a party trick for sure. but very cool
Great review for a great car! (Take two)
"If the gr corolla is 35k+, might as well cough up the extra 25k for an rs3!" 😆
Assuming natural German car progression (excluding Porsche), every new generation cars handle less dynamically and become less special… I’d highly disagree.
And that assumption of the second gen audi being lamer isn’t outlandish given that they absolutely fucking neutered the sound of the car. First Gen RS3s were one of the best sounding stock cars ever made and now this one sounds as special as a golf GTI.
Used 2018 RS3 > Corolla GR > 2nd Gen RS3
@@jire9831 Did you not hear that this new chassis has no understeer?
or, do what I did, and spend half as much as the corolla on a used S3 and put a few choice mods on it - making it as quick as the RS3 for 1/3 the money.
@@spinnetti Still not a 5 cylinder. Put mods on 5 cylinder and it’s in another league of power.
Money you probably don't have 🙃😂👍
Would you choose this or a 6MT CT4V Blackwing?
Ca it handle that rear bias mode on daily basis or the haldex oil will get too hot and it will greneade?
Sweet ride!!...now, if they'd only import the hot hatch version to the US as well...
id do nasty things for a hatchback rs3
@@Plupx you could move to Europe and enjoy the hatch as well as universal healthcare and a lack of school shootings 😊
@@joeracer302 unfortunately I don't think you can just "move to Europe" unless you have €3M for a Golden Visa
@@joeracer302 Funny enough, I have Italian passport from my dad, however I do live in a country with healthcare and appropriate gun laws :D
Hey Matt, the 3.6 0-60 is thar according to Audi or your own measurements? Also did you notice any signs of heat soak in the desert? I'd ask about brake fade but you weren't really hard on them.
Audi claims 3.6 on their website, most independent tests all achieved 3.29 - 3.5. Like many RS cars, Audi underestimated or under-quoted the numbers
An Rs3 is on our short list for our next car, my question for a daily is if the new torque curve makes it more of a dog in dailyl driving? The old RS3 was making 350tq from 1700rpm on where as this care doesn't make peak torque until 3500rpm. According to Car and Driver the old car was .4 secs faster 5-60, meaning this car would be slower in daily driving to me. I'd be curious everyone thoughts driving them back to back?
How smooth is a 5 cylinder motor? Does it have vibrations?
My custom order 2023 RS3 is being delivered this week! Super excited.
Was there any markup? In CA they are marking up $20,000
@@hotdognobun No, bought at MSRP ~67k
So Matt - RS3 or CT4-V Blackwing (6 speed manual)?
hmmm, @thesmokingtire this or the CT4 V Blackwing for a fun weekend car?
seeing the turbo blue in this lighting has really made me consider changing my order from kemora grey..
Looks so good in grey. Good choice man
Finally an American review of the 8Yrs3
imagine one of these with a manual - take my money. BMW definitely earns points for releasing the M's with a manual option.
An Audi RS 3 is far from entry level, but love the review!
What are those Sun glasses? Love that you can't see the reflection.
So upset its not coming to Canada. Such an awesome car.
Audi give the man a week with the car! I want one of these so bad.
May I ask what watch are you wearing today?
Thank Christ Audi have redeemed themselves with this model RS3 & finally have some great colours, & much better styling that differentiates it from its smaller brother S3. The more aggressive side treatment with the pumped out guards/wings/fenders was well overdue, and it’s the first RS3 that has shown its potential. Still can’t understand the wider front wheels though, very counterintuitive.
CTS4-V Blackwing vs RS3?
I really wish Audi would bring over the wagon version of the RS3 to the US. I know Audi said they won't, but I can still complain about it on the internet.
There is no "wagon version" at all. We get the hatchback in Europe but there's no wagon.
It's a shame this car is not available here in Canada for model year 2022. I have a 2019 RS3 and would have upgraded to it if it were available to me. What can you do?
Wouldn’t you be able to just go to the states buy it and drive it over to Canada ?
@@LaTinoHustLa91 Unfortunately it is not a car you can drive in Canada. So no.
What specific models does this car compete with with the German counterparts: bmw / Mercedes?
M2 and CLA45
Really wish they had more colorful interior options
6:36 made me chuckle.
Nice to see one on US soil…my local dealership still says they cannot order them yet and do not know when they will be. Can’t wait to get one!
better talk to another dealer cause I ordered mine 3 weeks ago
@@hellonwheels1332 You were actually able to order? My dealership said that they had no way of ordering. Been waiting!!! You mind giving out your dealership?
@@robhall8271 Yes sir its a preorder dealer is still waiting for Audi to start accepting them put 1000 down and got it in writing no mark ups or addons 65440 plus tax
@@hellonwheels1332 do you mind sharing which dealership? I am test driving an S3 my local dealership has just received but they are still telling me I cannot order or even preorder an RS3
How is the steering on this thing Matt?
As a person with gti, I want this to be my next car