Audi RS3 | Amazing Engine, Normal Car

[@TonyKimtheamusementparkfan]

The RS 3 has always been one of my favourite Audi vehicles. It’s small, but it packs a huge punch. That 2.5L turbocharged 5 cylinder is a gem of an engine.

[@mofayer]

I love the 2.5, but the cheapness of interior is what puts me off small Audis, both my brothers had them and they are sub civic touring quality.

[@tipnoel]

Same here. I'd settle for the RS Q3 if I had kids though, just for the drivetrain. (That is if I don't get fisted by mark-ups)

[@aaron5222]

Very true. S4 loaded is about the same cost and the interior is what you would expect.

[@TonyKimtheamusementparkfan]

@@mofayer Yeah I guess, but RS models are all about performance more than luxury, but I understand what you're saying.

[@gavinsloma]

It’s an economy car they charge 70k for it’s a joke the motor is the only good thing about it

[@psnmadracer27]

the RS3 is one of my "realistic" dream cars. i aspire to own one in the future. I love the way Audi 5 cyl engines sound, and as an added bonus this engine can make really good power with basic modifications.

[@d1gw33d]

I got to say, I always notice the quality work you guys do on your audio. The only YT channel that lets me enjoy high(er) end stereo speakers.

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

yeees the audio shit is really good on this channel 🌚

[@rgwebb2008]

Yup. SG and mkbhd always startle the shit outta me because they put the rear speakers to good use.

[@TexanApollyon]

5 cylinders are premium engines. I drove a manual TT RS stage 2 tuned for years. Engine sounded amazing. Car was tons of fun

[@BlightBlaze583]

Considering it’s technically VAG’s v10 cut in half I’d assume it would be well built. Amazing drivetrain

[@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo]

@@BlightBlaze583 that's fanboy myth, the 07k was designed in the 90s for the vw euro van as a work horse motor. It was based on the underpinnings of the Legendary 5v i5 from the group B Quattros and IMSA GTO........... In the late 90s they used the underpinnings of the 07k to develop Lamborghinis motors............

[@BlightBlaze583]

@@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo interesting

[@picklepee2771]

Understeer a TON, not nimble and their steering feel is kinda vague. Really just the engine is amazing that's it.

[@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo]

@@BlightBlaze583 I also forgot to mention from early 2000s to 2014 the 07k was used as an engine choice for the Jetta, Passat, golf and beetle. The only modern reliable gas motor that vw used besides the TDI diesels. Vw handicapped this engine during this era so vehicles with this motor won't effect GTI tsi sales. They made 170 hp from factory but despite lack of Factory support tuned they can reliably make 400 HP on stock internals with boost. IROZ motorsports from Las Vegas uses the iron blocks from junker VWs for their rs3 builds as the blocks are stronger then the rs3 aluminum. There's a video from HOONIGAN when they visited the shop.

[@obsidian....]

Seeing the genuine smile on Mark's face said a LOT about this thing 👍

[@chm2]

A RS3 Sportback would be all that I want in a car

[@orbitaljunkie]

I don't get why Audi (or any other manufacturer) doesn't allow for custom worldwide allocations for their euro-spec hatchbacks. Even if there was an additional cost, people would probably pay it. Or maybe rich people already do this, but I haven't seen an RS3 hatch stateside yet.

[@xIcarus227]

@@orbitaljunkie I'm guessing that shipping/handling to random places would make the cost prohibitive.

[@aprtur]

@@xIcarus227 highly doubt this, they'd throw it on RoRo with everything else coming to the States or wherever it's going. I think it's more likely a regulatory issue, where they have to crash test and meet DOT requirements, and they don't feel like spending the extra money

[@xIcarus227]

@@aprtur hmm that does make more sense, shipping seems like a lesser issue compared to that.

[@con2719]

@@aprtur It's just Audi US marketing dept info, "Americans don't like hatchbacks... blah blah blah..." , unfortunately.

[@rz7818]

Worked for company where I had to deliver these kinds of cars to KZbin reviewers and car journalists. I got a chance to take the long winding back roads to deliver the 2023 Audi RS3 and I LOVED IT! Car really can be enjoyed every day for every drive as a daily. Super responsive and the sounds are unbelievable.

[@WRL218]

I purchased one about three weeks ago from Audi Flatirons near Boulder, Colorado. There was no dealer mark up, and the buying experience was fantastic. I have driven it multiple times over Lizard Head Pass (elevation just above 10,000 feet) from Telluride to Rico and back. The RS3 is made for winding mountain roads like this one, and the car is awesome. I can feel the back end rotation being helped by the RS torque splitter, helping minimize understeer. On corner exit, I have to get on the throttle earlier than a RWD car so that it pulls through the corner. The engine feels under-rated at 401 HP even at these very high elevations, and sounds absolutely glorious. It is intoxicating. The Audi MMI display can be adjusted to display three main views, including traditional round dials, and the runway display in this video. The interior plastic could be better, but then again, I don’t have a need to touch it everyday. The seats are perfect, the steering wheel is beautiful and has a lot of controls on it, the interior colors can be customized, and the dash layout is nicely done with an integrated center display (not stuck on like most other car manufacturers). Dare I say it, the car is a steal at $60-$65K. As a reference point, my current track car is a GT3 RS.

[@travisprince7770]

It’s comforting to know a fellow Coloradan made the purchase and loves the RS3! I’ve been talking to Audi Denver about ordering one, and am putting money away for a down payment. They are also keeping them MSRP, likely to stay competitive. Love that about our local dealers. Ever since the redesign last year I just couldn’t help but feel like the RS3 was made for Colorado; the AWD means I can daily it year round on a square setup, and the highway mpg doesn’t break the bank. Add to that the turbos compensating for our elevation and the incredible roads our state offers, and it becomes pretty clear that I need to get one of these before they go out of production and Audi says goodbye to the wonderful 5 cyl. Highway 67 is a blast to drive too, though up by Boulder you might have more fun with the peak to peak highway and lookout mountain road if you want to have a quick blast. Enjoy your incredible new addition to an excellent garage, and I’ll see ya in the mountains!

[@3v3rhard]

For 60k its nice, enjoy the car! Its 100k over here in NL which makes it very bad value.

[@jp23x]

If this car is a steal at 65k, what do you call the c8 Corvette at the same price?

[@travisprince7770]

@@jp23x An absolute and total bargain! C8’s are suberb cars, no doubt. In every sense the C8 is a super car where the RS3 remains a sports car, particularly can’t wait to see more content on the Z06… Trouble is, some of us need four seats, AWD, and might not want to stick out in traffic. The C8 is a weekend super car for the masses, the RS3 is the ultimate daily driver for the select community that knows what’s under the hood. There’s a big chance this will be the last mass production gas powered 5 cylinder.

[@jp23x]

@@fzr1000981 just say youre a bmw fan girl.

[@maxpennacchini3261]

I don’t know why, but I’ve always had a soft spot for performance Audis.

[@canadianrs3128]

I've had a 2018 RS3 for almost 5 years. I love it. Impossible to get bored of the sounds it makes. Performs well at drag racing, autocross and daily driving my kids to school in any weather. In wintery conditions you get plenty of the sidways fun that people in warmer climates won't get to experience, and my car doesn't have the torque splitter.

[@sammysosa389]

how many miles have you put on it? and how reliable has it been?

[@qpoole90]

A few years back, Audi Canada had a driving experience day where they had the RS3, RS5, TTRS, RS7 and R8 V10 at the dealer and you could take each one out for a test drive loop. All of these cars were fun and that v10 is a unbelievable experience. However, the RS3 and TTRS were by far my favorite. They just feel so light and that 5 cylinder is such a special engine.

[@Brad633]

I'm jealous that you had that experience. It pained me to hear that the 5 cylinder engine is no longer allowed to be sold in Canada. It sounds great and looks like a very fun car. If I ever get around to buying an RS3 it will have to be a 2018/2019

[@michaelgomez4994]

this RS3 wights 3596lbs. what has the world come to where that is light weight.

[@corywhite4101]

@@michaelgomez4994 He said it FELT lightweight. Most likely meaning, it's very nimble and graceful and tight steering

[@michaelgomez4994]

@@corywhite4101 3590lbs feeling light….

[@mg-by7uu]

@@michaelgomez4994 Cars just keep getting bigger and heavier for safety and because people want a big enough car to fit all their junk and fat ass in. Gotta buy an old car if you want lightweight

[@the_chris]

My old Ford Focus RS (Mk2) had a volvo 5cyl - and that put 360hp through the front wheels alone. I always wanted a 5cyl with AWD as it felt like the perfect combo. 5cyl engines are just one of the best sounding things. Like tiny V10s. The sound never ever got old and even though people often hated the style of the Mk2 Focus RS, they changed their minds entirely after they drove it. I need to get one of these someday.

[@atmartens]

My first car was a Volvo 850 GLT with a turbo 5 and it was incredibly fun. Very reliable as well.

[@jareknowak8712]

Volvo 👍

[@WarriorsPhoto]

I hope you do and I didn't know Ford used Volvo engines. Good to know. (:

[@jondonnelly3]

I got the chance to drive one and it has a lovely engine, very hard suspension though for me.

[@aadi8568]

@@WarriorsPhoto yep they did, in the MK2 focus ST and RS - however these are only in Europe and maybe Australia I believe

[@steve_the_designer]

Just discovered this channel. Like your format. 👍🏻 I’m 2 months into my ‘21 TT RS. I saw the window closing on ICE and this amazing 5cyl turbo, and wanted the purest version of it. I never thought I’d own a car that encouraged me to leave the radio off. The engine sound is just sublime. Couldn’t be happier.

[@ianlatham2975]

That engine note is amazing, kudos to your sound engineer for capturing it so well.

[@-DocHolliday-]

Hey Mark, I understand many of the cars you review their limits cannot be approached on the street safely/legally but will we see street drives again? Or a hybrid of the two? Personally I love seeing them being driven on the street with Jack and your take.

[@Conservator.]

Just curious: What would you like to learn from a street drive? How comfortable (or not) it is perhaps? They mentioned something about that.

[@-DocHolliday-]

@@Conservator. Correct. Preference thing I guess. When the average person is trying to make the decision of buying a new vehicle, they aren't taking 'said cars' for test drives on the track.

[@Conservator.]

@@-DocHolliday- Yes that makes sense. Thanks!

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

I think they do a good job of filming cars on the track or the street depending on their design/use-case. They won't take a Toyota Sienna to Autobahn Country Club for hot-laps for example! It makes sense to me for sports cars to be reviewed on the track. My only quibble, is that the in-car discussion seems to suffer when compared to their discussions on sleepy country back-roads. The driver's brain is obviously more focused (as it should be) on keeping the car on the track than talking interior comfort over bumpy pavement. That said, I enjoy both kinds of reviews.

[@-DocHolliday-]

@@ragweedmakesmesneeze I completely agree. They're the best car channel on KZbin - it isn't even close. I enjoy the track sessions as well. I do prefer the banter in the car on the street though.

[@cubano07x]

My favourite Audi of all time which I will own one day!

[@GTRuppsala]

Me too

[@Licks61SG]

Great video as always! Love my 2020 RS3 because of the duality - Comfort mode for the daily A to B work drive, and then Dynamic mode for the spirited weekend drive. Great sound, whether it’s coming from the B&O or the 5 cylinder. Glad you both enjoyed it!

[@TermlessHGW]

You must be tiny to fit comfortably in there for daily use. But joking aside fast Audi's were always on the heavy side plus with that huge lump/engine hanging in front of the axle. But this tiny car at over 1.6 tons is insane. Don't get me wrong, the 5 cylinder is a monster and my favorite car, money no issue for a daily would still be a dark blue Audi RS6 estate. I do have a soft spot for Audi's but this one is to tiny, to heavy.

[@Conservator.]

@@TermlessHGW (Edit: the data below from a Dutch database appears not to be comparable with the US numbers in the video) I was surprised at its weight too. A BMW 540ix (inline 6, awd) is only 4 kg heavier but a much larger car*. Despite all that, the RS3 is very fast. *2017-2020 model. The 2022 540i xdrive weighs 1720 kg.

[@jack073]

Agreed. Best daily driver currently on the market imo.

[@Licks61SG]

@@TermlessHGW I’m 183cm and don’t have any issues! An RS6 is the dream.

[@richardnavratil9661]

That's kind of what I love about my Bullitt. I could comfortably cruise on the highways, take it on long roadtrips or basic DD duty, or I can take it to a track and it holds its own. Vehicles like that are truly unique.

[@kevinwhite6176]

Well, I guess I was wondering "what if my GLI was AWD and 5 cylinder with a loud exhaust" and this is the answer! Man, that thing plays a CHORD through the exhaust. That's amazing.

[@bRiAn55549]

Love the sound, my roommate had a 5 cylinder Volvo C30 and it sounded wicked

[@joelzylstra2971]

Whoah those came with the five cylinder?!

[@MeefMoaf]

​@@joelzylstra2971Yeah, all the P1 Volvos did.

[@bRiAn55549]

@@pepsibIue I hope he gets another one again such a unique car

[@PianoBlackTrimRep.]

Nevermind the "regular" $70,000 to $100,000 car. I just want to know if the Kirkland Signature t-shirt deal is still happening or did the deal fall through?

[@Xolition]

Blue RS3 owner checking in. As mentioned in the video, the aftermarket transforms these cars. From tunes, to suspension, to full aftermarket turbo builds. You can run E85 with no hardware needed.

[@cwx8]

I'd hang onto the warranty as long as humanly possible personally.

[@mofayer]

@@cwx8 those 2.5 5 turbo engine and trans have a good record, they've been making them forever.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

@@cwx8 dude if there’s one thing Audi knows how to engineer, it’s a reliable 5 cyl turbo lmao.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

@@cwx8 I have a 340k miles 95’ S6 with a 2.2l 5cyl turbo. I would know.

[@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo]

​@@cwx8 07k can make 1000hp more reliably then most engines....... You live under a rock.... LMAO........

[@Dadiplomatt23]

My buddy has a ratified built rs3. It is absolutely insane. It does not stop pulling planted like no other. 800hp in a 5 cylinder, not to mention he has 90k miles on it and daily drives it. 45k miles on the build.

[@JGioia12]

I kind of wish they would have updated the TT RS so that it could have gotten the diff from this gen RS3, but i get why they didn't. It's awesome you guys finally got one to review!

[@Da__goat]

At its initial MSRP, its an excellent value for the money. That being said, at what I have seen some dealers price the car, it stands no chance. I got quoted for $75,000 for one, for that money I can get a solid M5 with about 25,000 miles on it from 2018/19. If you want this car, wait a year for the car market to calm down and then you’ll have negotiating power. Additionally, wait until after Christmas, like end of January, to go into a dealer to guy the car, thats when sales are slow and youre likely to get the best deal. Do not buy a car in the summer.

[@tv321123]

To be fair...That is the paridyme of German luxury cars...in 3 years that 75K RS3 will be 35-40K 2nd hand, as well as that M5...And then you'll be able to say the same exact thing about the then new 2026 RS3,C class AMG, M3, EcT....' But you can get the bigger nicer one used for the same money/cheaper'.... It's always going to be the same story...

[@Beer_Dad1975]

That's because German cars start to become exponentially more likely to shit the bed once they get to the 5 year age mark - warranty is long gone, and all those components carefully designed to be as cheap to manufacture as possible whilst still being reasonably reliable for the warranty period are now past their use-by date and just a matter of time before they start failing. All German cars are lease and return at end of lease IMO - if you are sinking $75,000 of your own money into one of these things new, you are either extremely rich, or extremely stupid.

[@BlightBlaze583]

@@tv321123 The current gen rs3 has held its value very well. Most examples I’ve seen used for sale are at or close to original MSRP. That being said it could be a byproduct of the current car market but if I remember the rs3 held it’s value well even before the pandemic so it’s a tough call if it will depreciate as much as you’re saying. Only time will tell I suppose..

[@tv321123]

@@Beer_Dad1975 That is the big elephant in the room... BMW/MB/Audi have been made for the 0% interest rate central bank world for the past 20 years....Made to be lease mobiles that are thrown away after 5 years. I've known friends that have bought depreciated M cars + a aftermarket warranty knowing what they were getting themselves into. But I would never 'buy' one of these cars as a daily driver to count on...Only lease so I could toss it before the warranty expired.

[@andresmattos7541]

LOL LISTEN TO THIS GUY AT MSRP THIS IS AN EXCELLENT VALUE....

[@tannerdrake]

My first car was a base model golf with the 5 cylinder. Even though the engine in that form wasn't quick, it was still significantly peppier than other cars in its class (at the cost of fuel economy compared to a civic or corolla), and the engine had so much character for what it was. I really wish VW would throw the 5 cylinder and the VR6 in more vehicles because I'd much prefer it to the 4 poppers. A golf R with a turbo 5 cylinder or VR6 (like the R32) would be a great way to separate it from the GTI. I understand why they don't but it'd be neat.

[@hamdichami4636]

Rumour has it VW asked audi if they can use the 5 cylinder and they said no

[@quixomega]

Gotta have some reason to buy the RS3 over the Golf R. Justify the up-charge.

[@matus201]

My girlfriend drives golf with the 2.5L I5, and I drive a Touareg with the VR6. Neither are fast cars, nobody would ever think about either as a fast or fun-to-drive car. But man, those engines sound great, even when they're not going fast.

[@BARONsProductions]

Also VW probably uses 2.0L because of displacement tax where anything above 2l gets luxury tax. My country is Europe but China has that as well considering how big China market is I assume it's ona of the reasons as well

[@K03sport]

Federalizarion is really expensive at/near $42M per chassis/engine/trans combo (1 chassis x 2 engines x 1 trans = $84M)...then there's the Cafe std and goal achievements. 5 and 6 cylinder cars make it hard to achieve those numbers...also more cylinders means more parts which adds to the cost of production

[@matthewyang2792]

The title sums up the car really well

[@speeddemonRS3]

Amazing car yes!! It's worth every penny!

[@eurly93]

Can you guys please start including a 'Hot Lap' for you reviews where you just show an entire lap going flat out? Your channel literally has the best automotive content around, and it would be awesome to get just a little more of you guys pushing the cars. Keep it up and you will be dominating the space soon!

[@savagegeese]

We will probably do a sub video showing our time vs britt casey in one of the videos.

[@eurly93]

​@@savagegeese honestly though, as a fellow youtuber (Malt Mondays) and an engineer I just have to admire your dedication to not just the content entertainmetn but the QUALITY. You've done for automotive journalism what I always wished for. Actual review and analysis. It's honestly incredible. Thank you and keep it up

[@jhelwig19781]

Great video. You guys are equally entertaining even if you’re only reviewing a Camry. Please keep up with the videos!

[@recursion.]

understated comment

[@Alexbuilt]

I wanted to add something to this as i own a ttrs and know alot of people in the community with rs3/ttrs First and foremost there is a ton of options available for less money that provide more of a car from a daily driver aspect. Even within audis own line up. For example as s4 slightly used is much cheaper then a rs3 and with bolt on mods it can easily be in the 10 second range just like the rs3 For me where this car makes sense is when you go to build it. Lets say you want a 8 second car and you want the car to be a daily and drive normal on the streets there is few cars that can do this. The gtr being one of them. But for half the price of fully building gtr, you can build a rs3 and you would have no idea its pushing that power untill you floor the car. You can literally make 1000whp on stock cams and have normal drivability. Not to mention with just a clutch upgrade these transmissions are known to hold over 1000whp Any mustang,camaro,vette,supra, will never be able to do what this car can do fully built and maintain drivability so perfect. And thats whats special about this car to me and why i bought it. If you just want to do simple mods to the car there is better options for less money,. But if you really want to throw money at it. The ttrs/rs3 shine

[@fzr1000981]

Assuming you have E85 in your area that is...on 93 it's nowhere close to 1000 hp, maybe 550

[@Alexbuilt]

​@@fzr1000981 yea e85 like every 3 gas stations over here

[@fzr1000981]

not here

[@jack073]

I have the previous Gen (8V) RS3 and it’s been the best car I’ve personally owned. Such awesome performance in such a small, nimble package.

[@joelzylstra2971]

Wanna sell it? I’m in the market for a new family hauler. Also how many kids can fit in the trunk? 😂

[@sammysosa389]

reliable?

[@rabbitenjoyer6320]

I'm already a huge fan of the RS3's exhaust note but holy crap I was not ready for how amazing it sounded during the track impressions.

[@kiefershanks4172]

My only experience with a 5 cylinder was in a VW Transporter panel van with a 5-speed manual and the engine was a naturally-aspirated diesel. As you can imagine, it was slow as hell but you basically drove the hell out of it everywhere just to do normal road speed. It could only do 135km/h maximum. It sounded really, really cool and is up there with the most fun vehicles I've driven.

[@KO-iw3vu]

I got a 2018 and have been waiting for this review for years son!

[@kingmusa8618]

I drove a 18 when cross shopping between this and the m340 great car would’ve got it wasn’t for the interior lil screen

[@huehuehue-x3c]

If anyone is shopping for these, there are no dealer markups any more. My local Audi dealer (which is one of the biggest in the country) has 4 RS3s that have just been sitting on the lot.

[@dreadog6425]

What is there to hate about this car? A show of hands all who are going to the track today or EVER. Nobody. I'm tired of you track people. This is a great daily driver that can run down the majority of cars in its class and a lot costing more. Enjoy it instead of trying to find reasons to wine about it.

[@speeddemonRS3]

Bunch of clowns that bitch about this car!😂

[@darthtater6543]

This is the most in depth analysis of the RS3 review I’ve seen yet. Thank you for this.

[@CarsGarage]

Great review, as usual.

[@seandebottis3276]

Finally! Big fan of the RS3 but then I love the old Audis. As an owner of a C4 original S4 aka the URS4 this car screams perfect daily. Problem is that when they started dropping to low 40k’s prices and Covid crap went nuts and it out it outside my wallet. Fast forward and we are car shopping again but looking for a truck as a family hauler lowes runner camping do it all vehicle. Only so much $ to play with and that’s my reality. I will own an RS3, just probably in 4years. Also, tune this baby with E85 and add a ton of HP. The aftermarket loves this car and this car loves the aftermarket. Easy to make safe reliable all day power on this platform. Back to my beautiful URS4 and thanks for this video!

[@dogchainsaw3923]

UrS4/S6 gang!

[@Planetary13]

Here here. UrS6, Built up

[@DWK33]

Another great review. If you could include 2 items in your reviews going forward I think it’s be a nice addition 1-interior decibel level. We always hear this car or that car is quiet, but actually testing the quiet level at say 35mph and 75 mph would be cool. 2-as you mentioned this is an expensive car. Would be cool if at the end, or wherever, you just mention, if you don’t have $72k for this car check out car B and car C. They are similar to car A and will save you 10k and 30k respectively

[@HrHaakon]

Wouldn't it just be the Golf R and Golf GTi? Unless you can get the Škoda Octavia vRS, but I don't think that's a global brand, unfortunately.

[@DWK33]

@@HrHaakon yep, I get it on this one, it’s all VW and easy to figure out, but perhaps another company’s.

[@HrHaakon]

@@DWK33 yeah I was just joking. I agree with your idea being a good one.

[@Static-MT]

Thanks for the review! I was one of those waiting for 40 years. :)

[@dawnpoint]

5-poppers all have that warm overtone in the sound. Makes me miss our old crusty Volvo 850.

[@moloono1]

I always get a big smile on my face seeing Mark and Jack giggling like little kids on the track.

[@aoamchart]

The fact that we don't get the hatchback version of this in the US market is criminal. It would make it worth tolerating.

[@TeensierPython]

For the price?

[@kamsa1243]

@@TeensierPython No, hatches are just cooler

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

@@TeensierPython for the price it's not worth it at all, but the hatch just looks better imo

[@NathanBuildsRobots]

9:02 umm... are we going to talk about how the brake cooling scoop is made of plastic and held on with zipties? On a $70,000 car?

[@cwx8]

Supposedly for emissions reasons, the 5 cylinder motor can no longer be sold in Canada. So we don't get this anymore. That said the Golf R is creating more power than it says it does from it's EA888 and is a steal of a deal in Canada.

[@traviswebster8302]

last gen one looks better

[@Dialamo]

Yes I was quite disappointed that they would not sell the RS3 in Canada. I agree, the Golf R is a great deal if you can get used to the horrid infotainment and touch capacitive steering wheel buttons. I gotta test drive it one day to see. They state the Golf R has 315 hp, but some folks dyno'd it and it was pulling closer to 340hp.

[@cwx8]

@@Dialamo yeah no. It's bad. Really bad. Modern Audi isn't much better though.

[@Dialamo]

@@cwx8 That's a real shame the infotainment is so bad on the Golf R....

[@_zigger_]

Cucknada

[@davisflyer]

Mark nails it when he points out that the key to driving this car fast on the track is to drive it like a front wheel drive car. I've seen too many reviews of the RS3 and TTRS where the reviewer tries to drive it like a rear wheel drive car and complains about how bad the understeer is. I own a TTRS and have owned many front wheel drive performance cars, and you can drive this car very fast with the right technique. The 2.5 five cylinder is also a gem of an engine. Extremely smooth and sounds so exotic. That being said, the cheaper the spec on this car, the better the value. The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is probably a better value at MSRP, but at least where I live, the current markups put it near six figures.

[@why-dh5fy]

Your explanations never made me disappointed, nice video as always. Aggressive exterior, normal interior.

[@Youcallthesebagels_]

Exterior is not aggressive lol. It’s pretty generic.

[@mharro88]

@@Youcallthesebagels_ it's boring

[@xIcarus227]

@@Youcallthesebagels_ also that line of fake ventage at the back is making me lose my mind. They could've gone for a number of materials, yet they chose the worst one.

[@TheKaptainKombat]

I had a Jetta with the NA 2.5L, it wasn’t fast and it was 12 years old but that sound made the drive so much better. I’m happy to see some version of that engine get some love from the geese men!

[@alexbaker7243]

I'd always passed the S3 and and RS3 off as ticky-tacked A3s. Guess I couldn't have been more wrong. Aside from the price tag and markup, I'd seriously consider this car for my next vehicle. Can't wait for your review of the GR Corolla.

[@kushing8]

First of all thanks for finally reviewing a five cylinder Audi. I have been asking for the TTRS review for years. I’m not tracking my car and I have winter conditions five months of the years. So the TTRS have been the perfect sporty weekend car for me all year round. Glad to see you still somewhat enjoy driving the RS3. This is a great review.

[@urs6onfuturas975]

The 07k is an amazing engine just sucks it's only available in the rs3 sedan in the states now since the ttrs was killed off and the hatch isn't being brought over. The engine still is facing the wrong way too.

[@kilovwdude6457]

Go get a 2014 Passat 2.5 it's a n/a 0k7 170hp you can make 350 single turbo and prolly still save money not getting an rs3

[@Toymonkeyjr]

Agreed.

[@urs6onfuturas975]

@@kilovwdude6457 I've owned/semi built an 07k CBTA back in 2009. If you just want power at that point anything with en ea888 is a far better option than buying and building anything with the na 07k. Especially since VW had the big brain idea of going back to a torsion rear beam after the mk5 on anything other than the GTI/GLI/Passat. Can't really compare a Passat to anything with a RS or even an S badge either. I'll stick with my UrS6 and it's old dinosaur AAN 2.2T 5 cylinder, manual trans, and Quattro.

[@kilovwdude6457]

@@urs6onfuturas975 good to know I was considering doing an 07k build after my a3 2.0t

[@urs6onfuturas975]

@@kilovwdude6457 unless you're putting it in a different chassis like a mk2 (fabless manufacturing makes a bolt on sub frame/mounts to do the swap) or something more fun it's definitely not worth it. Long block 07k's are dirt cheap though and can make decent power so their is positives to them just in my opinion they are more fun in a chassis that is lighter than the chassis's they came in or something that isn't fwd lol

[@gw7624]

The architectural/mechanical analyses you guys do on this channel is seriously good 👍

[@Flxz0r]

It's one of the best engines in production. Full stop.

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

I've actually heard more engine issues on the 5cyls than issues on bmw's in general. I also wished vw still made their vr6 stuff.

[@Mark-rt6fy]

Nowhere near a true N/A v10

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

@@Mark-rt6fy which is nowhere near a true v12, so where are we going with this?

[@videogazer801]

@@Daniel-dj7fhno you haven’t, the rs3 engine is the most reliable engine in the 2.0T and inline 6 segment

[@b.vonschnauser207]

The best RS3 review, hands down. I especially like the technical commentary lacking in other reviews. Great video.

[@timothywilkinson6177]

At this point I don't even care what car comes out. Dealerships have ruined any dream of getting any car at MSRP or even close to it. You want a Civic LX? Here's your 5K adjustment. Can't wait for dealerships to follow Tesla, turn into a "Gallery" and just cut the BS out of buying a car. Hopefully Ford does what they say they are going to and other manufacturers follow..

[@cdb5001]

Ah yes, Tesla... The pinnacle of customer service experiences. "What's this word 'service' you keep mentioning??"

[@ilimit]

I was waiting for this video. I love this turbo blue color.

[@oliversun5039]

This is my freaking dream car! I just hope they would bring it here to Canada

[@imtoogoodforchu]

I’ll buy it the day it’s available for order in Canada. Unfortunately I don’t think that day is ever coming.

[@ricktrue8441]

​@@imtoogoodforchu No your mommy and daddy will buy it for you when it comes to Canada

[@imtoogoodforchu]

@@ricktrue8441 what

[@Herbotis]

Thank you for your thorough reviewing. It's much different than the regurgitation of info you find on the manufacturer's website. I was swaying between this and an m3 but I'm glad you guys enjoy this car... I just put a deposit down and wait time is around 1 year.

[@wiegraf9009]

The Audi website is also extremely bare bones in terms of information, so it's doubly impressive.

[@Juganator]

This car is so weird. The A3 is legit milquetoast and they added one of the more exciting drivetrains you can get today.

[@Lazirus951]

Having owned one in the past, can confirm it's weird. It neither feels quite at home on the street or the track. It's a bit uncomfortable and stiff on the street, but it's understeer makes it a bit awkward for the track.

[@shijima_ending]

The A3 is milquetoast? Well what is it supposed to be?

[@djbryson]

Why are you talking about the A3? That's a 2 liter. Ridiculous to compare. That's like mentioning the base Golf on a Golf R video.

[@markmiller3279]

The A3 is a mildly upgraded Golf. The Golf comes in multiple versions and so does the A3.

[@EricBentleyW]

@@djbryson How is it ridiculous to compare when the RS3 is based on the A3? There's a reason why the RS3 is listed as a trim option of the A3, and not as it's own thing. Plus, there is more to a car than just the drivetrain. For $70k USD, the car should be more than a $40k A3 with a better drivetrain.

[@ezekielalexander709]

That's why I like watching this channel even though I've seen at least six videos on this car I still learn something new

[@moonman_8935]

The Block in the RS3 is literally half a Huracan. This sedan is very impressive IMO & a rare breed 5cyl Turbo plus Quattro whats not to love other than the price tag..

[@Mdgld]

Well, the a3 interior for one

[@jairct3617]

I love the quality of this channel, the level of production is definitely the best.

[@wiegraf9009]

What a sound, what an engine!

[@jodon9512]

Wow I was waiting for this review for years and it slipped through my sub feed. Glad I finally got to watch it

[@MrRichardG22]

Would love to hear your take on the S3. The middle car between the A3 and RS3.

[@AndrewBeveridge461]

Watch their video on the '22 Golf R. It's nearly the same car.

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

@@AndrewBeveridge461 the rs3 is almost also just a golf r but with 1 more cylinder.

[@jamesneal4103]

You guys are spot on with regards to the interior build quality. I have owned my 8Y rs3 since November 2022 and there have been some issues. Love the motor but I am not sure it's a long term car for me. Should mention that I bought mine at MSRP, do not overpay for this car.

[@grahmdoughty]

What build quality problems are you experiencing? Thinking of getting one and trying to get any info I can from current owners.

[@saeidnazemi1312]

This channel is so undervalued. You 2 are amazing 👏

[@tiltedtoken1450]

Its an obtainable dream car for most people and they're buying it for the engine.

[@Roddy451]

As always, a great sensible review. IMHO, the customer for this car is specifically looking for it. I love the car because of the amazing engine... and that is it. If I squint just a little bit, I still see a Jetta. When I look at the price, even without a mark-up, I will wave at it and get a Cadillac instead. Even if it is a little bit slower, when you drive a car with a manual transmission, the involvement and joy will usually be at a different level.

[@joelzylstra2971]

I won’t say you are wrong for preferring manual, I love manual myself. In fact I hated autos right up until I bought my S3. In dynamic mode with the paddles it’s every bit as engaging as a manual, it even has a similar feel with the lack of a torque converter. I would buy an RS3 in a New York minute (but not until after testing the Caddy with the manual. 😉)

[@Roddy451]

@@joelzylstra2971 I own several cars. As soon as I get in the 2018 Focus ST and I see that I have three pedals and a shifter, I just want to start driving. There is no "rev matching" so you have to deal with your own heel & toe. I have to admit I am a dinosaur, but I will go as a happy dino. 😉👍

[@fzr1000981]

@@Roddy451 manuals only make sense on a mountain road or track, for typical city driving they're just a liability. I don't miss rowing and I drove a modded FD RX-7 for 18 years so I know what I'm missing

[@nemesisxxprime]

Was lucky enough to get this at msrp in SoCal. Happy with the purchase.

[@joseph-ow1hf]

VW should put this engine in the Golf R. I'd buy one tomorrow if they did.

[@backseatdriver8902]

They did, its called an RS3.

[@spacetoast7783]

​@@backseatdriver8902 ...which is not offered as a hatchback

[@KickingTires]

Always loved the RS3!

[@sandrokolar4387]

I had 2018 , what a special engine loved it . Sound is priceless, stage 1

[@timothycoyne5874]

It’s funny to me many reviewers criticize the size of the A3, but once it’s an S or RS they seem to drop their complaints about it being too small. Personally, I like this compact sedan, regardless of which engine is in it. But $70K+ is just way too much money for this. Great car, insane price tag.

[@maestroadam]

Agreed: S3 for me.

[@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo]

@@maestroadam I don't know man, this is literally the closest thing to a group B Quattro or IMSA GTO, while still taking your kids to school...... The tsi is a very uninspiring engine......... At retail I think it's worth, but not at dealer mark-up.

[@maestroadam]

@@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo haha oh yeah I am sure the experience is very different, like apples to oranges. So is the pricing, and the fuel economy too. (Which matters up here in Canada)

[@Republic1ders]

Agreed. A 70k car is tough to swallow even for 400hp. The S3 really is the sweet middle spot being sub 50k (hopefully the dealer isnt gauging)

[@maestroadam]

@@Republic1ders exactly my thinking as well. I don’t track cars either, and I would like a car that has tires which last longer than 5k miles too, haha. One has to be pragmatic.

[@TastyGnocchi]

I wasn't sure about this vehicle until the technical overview. Really did make me Choose Loving Kindness.

[@vinylcabasse]

i saw an RS3 hatch in italy a few months ago and just stopped and drooled. why can't we get these here, they look so much better than the sedans in my opinion

[@JoJoJoker]

A Golf R with the 5-banger would be the ideal package. Sedans are a shrinking class…

[@im.weasel]

Its a shame that the RS3 hatch doesn't comes to North America.

[@JoJoJoker]

@Patrick Bai a 2dr GTI with an RS drivetrain swap would be my build.

[@JohnSmith-yr6je]

Would be really cool if you did a podcast or something with what car you would buy at certain price point or just go over what your favorite cars to drive are both for performance or daily

[@joseacuna3239]

It’s a nice car, I drove one and the thing is a handful. The engine note is sublime and some say it’s a half R8 V10.

[@pascaltaillefer1497]

The 5 cyl is supoose tu be the architecture of a half v10 from the gallardo lambo ( vw prduct)

[@michaelschneider-]

+1,, Top Shelve review... This review saves face for my RS3 choice or lack thereof. ..

[@S_-cl8om]

This was the only real contender when I cross shopped my s209. It literally was one of the most modernGerman cars I ever drove in the sense it really does everything well. It wasn’t as raw or as “special” (subjective) as the s209 but this car really is a treasure to have at our shores. The wagon would really tip the scales . Great content Yet again. Awesome car🔥

[@RelaxAndSmokeMeth]

hatchback > wagon

[@CypressRacing]

Great review. 4 seconds quicker than the Type R at the ring would have made a good mention.

[@lsowner10]

I love my 2018 RS3!

[@VITOBAKO]

jeez these colors are gonna make me COME to my dealer and get myself one of these

[@MBisFrenchy]

I wish the interior came in another color aside from black.

[@johnjerrehian4642]

I always liked the RS3. Even more now. I had an older Audi 5 cyl and one couldn't kill that engine.

[@PabzSanchez]

I'm a Toyota fan boy at heart, but I always view this car as a great car to lease. Amazing performance, practicality, and tech.

[@TassieLorenzo]

I'm not sure this car quite has the driving engagement of the GR Corolla, even though it's faster (and has 2 more cylinders, lol).

[@EricBentleyW]

I was seriously looking at getting one, but the new models are not available in Canada due to the 5 cylinder. Hopefully they can bring them back for the next model year. Might pick up a slightly older one anyway.

[@TheFlyingPLiner]

I've had my first gen since launch. It is an absolutely stupid fast commuter. Dead reliable, handles well, sounds amazing, and the power output is basically limitless. I have just a few basic mods and the car is outputting stupid amounts of power.

[@alexguolo5872]

the engine and trans on this wont make it past 150k

[@alexguolo5872]

reliable until it breaks

[@alexguolo5872]

shitbox audi S4 the dSG blew up and costed like 8 grand. POS really

[@alexguolo5872]

never use the world reliable with Audi just stop lying to yourself lol

[@TheFlyingPLiner]

@@alexguolo5872 it's an rs3 my guy. The odometer is never going to hit that mileage because I'm not an uber driver in a Hyundai Sonata.

[@lesgold430]

Surprisingly good video. These guys know what they’re talking about. Subscribing.

[@dragospahontu]

Great daily for the winter.

[@brettbrantley1474]

So glad y’all did this, thank you!

[@zero11010]

Sounds like you need to spend more time on track with front wheel drive biased cars. It’s very normal to have to drive a car differently based on drivetrain. You cannot expect FWD, RWD, AWD, and a mid engine car to be driven the same way. You, as the driver, must adjust your style to get the most out of the car. Your personal bias for rear wheel drive cars was very apparent. It sounded like you wanted to get the car sideways. It sounded like the only way you’re really comfortable doing that is with a power drift. Just a suggestion. I know you guys drive reasonably well and spend time on track. Focus more on car handling and weight manipulation. Work on your brake induced drifts, your lift off drifts, and your inertial drifts. After you get comfortable with a Scandinavian flick you won’t feel like mashing the gas pedal is the “right” way to get those sensations. And, from what I hear from watching your videos for a very long time, that’s where you’re at. I’m glad you don’t rely on the parking brake to drift, but a power drift is the next step after the parking brake, and you need to work to evolve past that. And, I’m sure you’ve experienced each of those somewhat. I’m sure of it. More time genuinely focused on them is going to help. 👍

[@dougrobinson8602]

I don't know how the RS3 handles, but in my MINI with a stiffer rear bar you could really get the tail out with trailing throttle oversteer. Of course, you couldn't sustain it like you could in a RWD car, but it does turn some heads.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

Yes. It makes me mad how people except an Audi to drive like a BMW. Do these people know Audi is dominate in many Motorsports like Trans Am with the same setup.

[@pan4632]

​@@dougrobinson8602 stiffer rear sway bar is a really common mod on VAG products. 034 Motorsport is well known for offering them for most audi/vw models. Helps mitigate a good amount of understeer.

[@traviswebster8302]

@@dogchainsaw3923 it doesn’t matter it’s just less enjoyable to drive

[@zero11010]

@@traviswebster8302 it’s just different. Each drive train handles a little differently. Mastering each is a ton of fun (personally, I’ve not gone after MR cars yet). You don’t eat a steak and whine that it isn’t pancakes. You enjoy the steak for the characteristics of the steak. Still a meal. Still enjoyable. Most people I’ve seen whine about FWD cars haven’t spent any real time in one that was designed to perform. Mastering a FWD car’s turn is just as enjoyable as doing the same for RWD. Often it’s the same thing for AWD cars. Here, we have both with a front biased AWD system. It’s genuinely stupid to complain it isn’t RWD. Look at the track times it posts. It sounds great. It feels great. The complaint is that it isn’t RWD. They need to grow up. Looking forward to the Throttle House guys getting it on a track (the performance guy is a real track guy). Alex On Autos had this RS3 before Savage Geese. I’m assuming it will get to Throttle House soon.

[@dhmallet]

A very entertaining video.I suspect your licenses and insurance costs are now lower with your reviews on the race track, but I miss the hooning around the cornfields.

[@myemailiscool]

i miss it too 😞

[@UnitedNaishuns]

here's 1/4 of a nice wegmans cheese board

[@davidballantyne762]

Thanks for the video guys - as always you do a terrific car review. I was interested if the RS3 was that much better than the S3, and I think probably not, given the extra cost for 1 more cylinder.

[@MrAshar101]

Lol, the extra cylinder is what makes it so special and expensive .

[@bryan688]

Jack mentioned it but with the ADM dealers are slapping on these cars they are just not worth anywhere near what Audi dealers want.

[@chrisd6736]

How much? I drive an RS5

[@bryan688]

@@chrisd6736 I looked at 2. One was 25k additional and the other was 20k$.

[@chrisd6736]

@@bryan688- holy crap ya no way I would pay that much.

[@bryan688]

@@chrisd6736 I am looking at a Volvo C30 for my next project car. They talked about that 5 cylinder sound and if you haven't heard a T5 uncorked it is a beautiful thing.

[@weirdshibainu]

I like how clean new car factories are.

[@FrostyRosty93]

8:29 exactly what I want to see. My $70k+ Audi with factory zip ties on the control arm

[@dogchainsaw3923]

It’s for holding the brake coolers. If they work what’s the problem

[@chuckuni5366]

@@dogchainsaw3923 Exactly. And it's not a dealer only fastener when you need to mess with it or if it gets torn off.

[@_Mario_PL_]

@@dogchainsaw3923 I'm sure zip ties will hold up great in the cold and snow after couple of years.

[@dogchainsaw3923]

@@_Mario_PL_ they do? Zip ties are strong af.

[@ultimatist]

@@_Mario_PL_ hell I'd be fine with duct tape if it works. And it works!

[@timhassett7302]

Would love to see you guys review the 2022 TTRS.