Grey Audi RS 3 parked on a country lay by

Used Audi RS 3 

Available with home delivery to UK mainland addresses and low rate finance

Search Used Audi RS 3

Discover an approved used RS 3 through Stratstone

Audi RS 3 rear driving shot

The Audi RS 3 is a hot hatchback with a big boot and a stunning cabin design, making it perfect for families who want performance.

While the standard Audi A3 isn't short of strong performers, the Audi RS 3 is an entirely different prospect altogether. A turbocharged, 5-cylinder, petrol engine ensures power isn't an issue, while the tuned chassis is aided by Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system. The end result is nothing short of spectacular.

Here's an overview of why the Audi RS 3 makes a great used car purchase:

  • Incredibly fast
  • Huge levels of grip
  • Beautiful interior
  • Big boot
  • Available as a Sportback or Saloon

Engines and Driving Experience

Audi RS 3 front driving shot

The Audi RS 3 develops grip that is bordering on unbelievable thanks to the company's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system. As a result, the RS 3 never really loses its composure in the corners, which is further helped by the huge brakes that sit behind the front wheels.

Courtesy of the 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder, turbocharged engine that lives under the bonnet, the RS 3 develops 395bhp. Combined with the Quattro system and Audi's quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the RS 3 can achieve 0 to 62mph in just 4.1 seconds.

Despite the Mercedes-AMG A-Class offering up to 415bhp from a 2.0-litre petrol engine, it can't compete with the aural drama provided by the RS 3, which sounds like a mini Audi R8. You should expect circa 30mpg from the RS 3, which isn't bad given the performance.

Practicality and Running Costs

Audi RS 3 boot

The Audi RS 3 is available as a Sportback or Saloon. A Sportback combines the best traits of a traditional hatchback and a coupé, making it a stylish but practical choice. Either way, both bodystyles offer five doors as standard.

Inside, there is plenty of space for the family. The Sportback may have the traits of a coupé, but there's ample room in the back for grown adults. You don't quite get as much headroom in the Saloon, but we're talking fine margins in reality.

The two only really differ when it comes to boot space, since the Sportback has a larger, 335-litre, boot compared to the 315 litres on offer in the Saloon. Fold the rear seats down and the Saloon musters 770 litres of luggage capacity compared to the Sportback's 1,175 litres.

Given the nature of the RS 3, you'll have to accept that running costs will be higher than your average family car. The RS 3 occupies insurance group 46 out of 50, which will reflect in your annual premiums. However, affordable servicing and maintenance is available through all Stratstone Audi retailers.

Interior, Technology, and Safety

Audi RS 3 interior

Audi are renowned for offering exemplary interiors in their vehicles, which reflects in the class-leading RS 3. The materials used throughout the cabin are high-quality, while the ergonomics are nothing short of excellent.

The brand's Virtual Cockpit, which is a large digital screen that replaces the traditional instrument cluster, comes as standard in the RS 3. It allows you to display any driving information you want, including a large colour sat nav map.

Being a top-level model, the RS 3 is well-equipped. DAB radio and a 10-speaker sound system complement each other nicely, while the unique RS 3 seats are joined by a distinctive flat-bottom steering wheel.

Additional equipment can be found on Audi Sport Edition models, and include larger alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and various changes to the interior and exterior trims.

Safety features and driver aids available include:

  • Stability control
  • Active cruise control
  • Traffic jam assistance
  • Road sign recognition
  • High-beam assist

Is the Audi RS 3 right for me?

The Audi RS 3 is the ultimate hot hatchback that makes sense if you want scintillating performance in a family-friendly package. The running costs are understandably higher than your average family hatchback, but then those cars don't compare when it comes to driving enjoyment.

Arguably, the closest rival to the RS 3 is the aforementioned Mercedes-AMG A-Class, which is slightly more efficient and has slightly more power. The BMW M2 isn't quite as practical as the Audi, but it makes up for this with a more rewarding driving experience and a real presence.

 

Why choose Stratstone for your next used vehicle?

Discover your next car with Stratstone

At Stratstone, we have a variety of quality used cars for you to choose from. Each car is carefully selected by our teams before making its way through the rigorous preparation process, where it is inspected by a qualified technician and then fully valeted.

All our vehicles are fully HPI checked, giving you peace of mind when making a decision. In addition, we are able to offer Home Delivery to UK mainland addresses, giving you flexibility when searching for your next car.

We are also able to offer you a tailored Service Plan for your selected car, which allows you to spread the cost of maintenance over an agreed period of time, whilst saving you money in the process.

If you would like some advice on picking the right car for you, or you have spotted a vehicle and want more information, please contact your nearest Stratstone retailer, where one of our friendly associates will be more than happy to help.