2022 Audi RS3 review

What We Like

Performance: The RS 3’s five-cylinder engine delivers stunning performance and, with an extra cylinder compared to the A3 and S3, a unique sound. With 401 hp, the RS 3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, and its five-cylinder engine makes it a bit of an automotive unicorn today. The all-wheel-drive system means the RS 3 is never short on traction.

Interior: We’re fans of the A3 and S3 interiors, and fundamentally the RS 3 interior is no different. Some of the materials are a little nicer — a suede-wrapped panel there, a carbon-fiber door inlay there — but the core design is classy and ergonomic, with crisp lines and edges. A stubby lever replaces the traditional gear shifter and takes some getting used to, but the RS 3 retains its excellent outward visibility. The RS-specific sport seats are comfortable and supportive and surprisingly easy to get in and out of.

Technology: The RS 3’s infotainment system works well and is easy to navigate. A 10.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen, housed in the center of the dash and angled slightly toward the driver, is a nice upgrade from the previous pop-up display. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ can connect wirelessly, and a wireless charging pad comes standard. The previous RS 3 kept some common driver aids restricted to expensive packages, but the 2022 model has most of them standard, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and lane keeping assistance.

What Needs Improvement

Roominess: The 2022 RS 3 faces the same spatial challenges as the generation before it, namely a cramped back seat and, surprisingly, an even tinier trunk. Despite the RS 3 being about 1.5 inches longer overall than the previous generation, the trunk holds a meager 8.3 cubic feet, almost 2 cubic feet less. There’s no appreciable increase in legroom in either the front or back seats. Fold-down rear seats at least offer some versatility for long items, assuming you don’t have passengers back there.