Snackable Review: Audi RS3

PLUS

• It’s available! The first Audi RS3 failed to reach Australian Audi showrooms as it couldn’t comply with local vehicle regulations.
• At $78,900, this is Audi’s most attainable RS model.
• No hot-hatch is currently quicker from standstill to 100km/h – 4.3 seconds. (Mercedes-Benz, however, is claiming 4.2sec for its updated A45 AMG due here in early 2016 or a touch earlier.)
• Stunningly quick on the move, too, courtesy of huge torque (465Nm) available across a large chunk of the engine’s rev range.
• Turbocharged five-cylinder engine sounds fantastic with its distinctive warble, while the exhaust crackles and pops when in Dynamic mode.
• All-wheel-drive traction, high levels of tyre grip, strong brakes, and accurate, quick steering provide the driver with plenty of confidence on twisty roads.
• Rides comfortably (with optional adaptive suspension we tested).
• Interior a stand-out for aesthetics and materials.

MINUS

• Steering could provide more information to the driver’s hands about how the front tyres are interacting with the road surface.
• More than $80,000 (once on-road costs are added) is a high price for a five-door hatchback.
• Could look faster. In profile especially, RS3 design rather restrained for a performance model.
• Not exactly light at 1520kg.
• Adaptive suspension could perhaps be standard considering starting price (costs $6490 as part of an RS Performance package that also includes a Bang & Olufsen audio and some other extras).

Click here to find out more about the Audi RS3.