The 2026 Audi RS3 leaves an unusual impression: in terms of dimensions, it is a compact sedan, but in terms of driving experience, it feels like a car of a higher class. Compared to modern "charged" hatchbacks and compact sedans, the RS3 is perceived as a more complete, emotional and truly driver-oriented car, especially for those who are tired of faceless turbo engines and excessive digitalization.
The current generation RS3 debuted in 2022, and at the end of 2024, the model received a major update, which is fully revealed in the 2026 model year version. The architecture of the power plant and quattro all-wheel drive remained the same, but Audi refined the chassis, electronics and redesigned the exterior and interior details. The main change is the feeling behind the wheel: the car has become noticeably more precise, faster and more exciting in corners.
The RS3 remains the only compact sports sedan on the market with a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Its output — 394 hp and 500 Nm — has not changed, but the engine character remains a key advantage of the model. Compared to four-cylinder competitors, the Audi engine sounds rich and emotional, and there is enough traction in any mode. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 3.8 seconds, and according to GPS measurements — even faster.
One of the most important technical updates is hidden from view. Audi has redesigned the torque distribution and brake vectoring system. Now the electronics work more accurately, respond faster to changes in grip and almost completely eliminate understeer. Instead, the RS3 offers controlled oversteer, which was previously uncharacteristic of compact all-wheel drive Audis. It is no coincidence that the updated RS3 turned out to be more than 5 seconds faster than its predecessor at the Nürburgring.
The sedan has changed externally neatly, but noticeably. A new wide Singleframe grille with a more aggressive shape and large air intakes appeared at the front. At the same time, the signature RS3 badge disappeared from the grille, which looks like a strange decision for a model with such a character. The rear lights have been updated, the diffuser has become more massive, and the oval exhaust pipes emphasize the sporty focus of the car.
The interior of the RS3 combines spectacular details and controversial solutions. The test car was equipped with the RS styling package plus with bright green accents, stitching and Alcantara, which makes the interior visually very expressive. New for 2026 is a steering wheel with a flat top and bottom and two red RS buttons for quick access to sports modes. It looks impressive and fits comfortably in the hands, but the touch buttons are inferior in tactile sensations to the old physical elements.
The equipment remains rich: a digital instrument panel with a diagonal of 12.3 inches, a 10-inch multimedia screen, a projection display, an audio system with 15 speakers and customizable interior lighting. At the same time, it is here that the main disadvantage of the model manifests itself — an excess of hard black plastic on the doors, front panel and central tunnel. Glossy surfaces are easily scratched and collect fingerprints, and the rear seats remain frankly cramped.
On the move, the RS3 quickly makes you forget about any claims to the trim. The seven-speed S tronic robotic gearbox works lightning fast during active driving, and the all-wheel drive in combination with Bridgestone Potenza Sport tires provides phenomenal grip. The car starts equally confidently on both dry and wet surfaces, and in urban mode it only occasionally reminds of its sporty nature with not the smoothest transmission operation at low speeds.
Seven driving modes allow you to fine-tune the character of the RS3. In RS Individual and RS Performance modes, the exhaust is fully revealed, and the five-cylinder engine fills the cabin with a rich, almost exotic sound. Special attention should be paid to the RS Torque Rear mode, in which the torque distribution system focuses on the rear axle. In this mode, the RS3 allows you to drift in a controlled manner in corners.
