Is The RS3 Audi's Best Performance Vehicle?

Audi has introduced several high-performance cars throughout its illustrious history, spanning over a century. Their portfolio of legendary cars ranges from the iconic OG Quattro rally car to the sonorous V10-powered Audi R8 supercar. However, Audi’s current lineup is a bit underwhelming, to be frank. Gone is the musical Audi R8 and its mini version, the TT. They have also pulled the plug on the RS5 Coupe. This entails a shortage of high-performance, veritably engaging machines in Audi’s current lineup. That is where their smallest and sharpest high-performance car gains significance.

The Audi RS3 is a compact sedan that deserves the title of “pocket rocket” (0-60 in around 3.3 seconds). It might have a small footprint, but the level of jollity this little turbocharged beast offers is praiseworthy. Sure, there are significantly more powerful machines on the Audi roster, such as the all-electric RS e-tron GT, the RS7, and the RS Q8 super-SUV. However, the Audi RS3 puts forth something that none of its mightier siblings can offer — playfulness. This little monster is capable of delivering limitless fun in all instances; whether it be on a straight line, around the winding twisties, or even on a scorching racetrack. But is that enough to crown it as Audi’s best performance car? Let me explain.

A 401-HP Turbo-5-Cylinder Motor And Lots Of Character

All of these elements and their unified functioning guarantee the Audi RS3 a throne in the Audi Hall of Fame. Purists might disagree as after all it is a sedan and not a 2-door coupe. But, hear me out. I’m not saying that it successfully replicates the drive feel of a 2-door rear-wheel-drive coupe. However, it offers something for everyone. It is a multifaceted car that scores high in every expected high-performance automotive yardstick. I do not imply that it is simply a jack of all trades; but more like a jack of all other trades and the master of dynamics.

The Audi RS3 is visceral. Its unique, award-winning 5-cyl motor is weird and weirdly glorious. It puts out more than enough propulsion force to dash through any tarmac situation. The Quattro all-wheel-drivetrain is just spectacular. It is exceptionally grippy and tractive in the usual RS modes, while being drift-friendly and jovial in the dedicated Dynamic mode. While it isn’t as sideways-friendly as an inherent RWD sports car, it evidently does an impressive job. I know that not everyone wants to send their car sideways around every corner, but in the RS3, you can if you want to.

These dual characters of “serious, super-grippy speed demon” and “fun, playful smirk bringer” make the RS3 a car for all kinds of driving enthusiasts. Regardless of your driving style and road preference, you’ll be able to enjoy it (as long as you’re driving on a paved tarmac). On top of all the performance excellence, the Audi RS3 is also a superb daily driver and family car. It is adequately spacious (identical to the A3), made up of premium materials, and, trust me on this one, the ride quality is impressive. Even in the RS modes, the car isn’t overly stiff, or punishingly bumpy; and that is a more-than-appreciable factor for such a hardcore driver’s car. Considering all these attributes, I would say that at present the RS3 is Audi's best performance vehicle you can buy brand new.