Introduction
The 2018 Audi RS3 is a testament to Audi’s commitment to blending high performance with everyday practicality. As a compact luxury sedan, it offers a compelling mix of power, advanced technology, and refined design.
This article provides an in-depth overview of the 2018 Audi RS3, covering its pricing, key features, interior design, engine efficiency, and competitor comparisons.
| Aspects | Details |
| 2018 Audi RS3 | The 2018 Audi RS3 blends high performance with everyday practicality, offering power, advanced technology, and luxury in a compact sedan package. |
| Performance | It is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine delivering 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque for thrilling acceleration. |
| Pricing | I am starting MSRP: $54,900. Used market values range from $36,727 to $49,673, influenced by mileage and condition. |
| Interior Design | Features sport-oriented seating with Nappa leather, Virtual Cockpit (optional), and premium materials for a luxurious, driver-focused cabin. |
| Fuel Efficiency | EPA-estimated: 19 mpg (city) / 28 mpg (highway), achieving a combined rating of 22 mpg. |
| Competitors | Competes with Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and BMW M2, offering more power and versatility with its Quattro all-wheel-drive system. |
2018 Audi RS3
The 2018 Audi RS3 is a high-performance luxury sedan that blends power, precision, and everyday practicality. A turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine producing 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque delivers exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling.
Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and control, making it versatile in various driving conditions. Inside, the RS3 boasts a refined and driver-focused cabin featuring Nappa leather upholstery advanced technology like the optional.
Virtual Cockpit and a premium infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration. The 2018 RS3 stands out in its class, offering a unique combination of sporty design, luxurious comfort, and cutting-edge performance.
Pricing Overview
- When the 2018 Audi RS3 was introduced, it had a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $54,900.
- This base price included a range of standard features, with additional packages and options available to enhance the vehicle’s performance and luxury. For instance, the Dynamic package, priced at $1,600, added features like a sports exhaust system and red brake calipers.
- The Technology package, which included advanced navigation and a premium sound system, was also available for an additional cost.
- In the used car market, the value of a 2018 Audi RS3 varies based on factors such as mileage, condition, and location. As of recent assessments, trade-in values range from approximately $36,727 to $49,673.
- Retail prices for well-maintained models with average mileage typically fall between $40,000 and $50,000. It’s important to note that these values can fluctuate over time due to market demand and vehicle conditions.
Key Features
The 2018 Audi RS3 comes equipped with a host of features that enhance both performance and comfort:
- Performance: At the heart of the RS3 is a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine producing 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
- Quattro All-Wheel Drive: Audi’s renowned all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and stability, which is particularly beneficial in various driving conditions.
- Exterior Design: The RS3 features a distinctive exterior with full LED headlights, a signature single-frame grille, and aggressive styling cues that set it apart from the standard A3 models.
- Interior Amenities: Inside, the RS3 offers Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 7.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Safety Features: Standard safety features include Audi Pre Sense Basic, which prepares the vehicle for a potential collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows, and Audi Side Assist, which provides blind-spot monitoring.
Interior Design and Comfort
The interior of the 2018 Audi RS3 is designed to provide both luxury and functionality.
- Seating: The front seats are sport-oriented, offering substantial bolstering for support during spirited driving. Nappa leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, and the seats are heated for added comfort.
- Dashboard and Controls: The driver-centric dashboard features a flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated controls, allowing easy access to various functions. The Virtual Cockpit, an optional feature, replaces traditional gauges with a customizable digital display, providing information such as navigation, audio settings, and performance metrics.
- Infotainment System: The central infotainment system includes a 7.0-inch display with MMI® touch, offering intuitive control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration ensure seamless connectivity with smartphones.
- Materials and Finish: High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, including soft-touch plastics, aluminum accents, and optional carbon fiber inlays, creating a premium atmosphere.
Specifications
The 2018 Audi RS3 is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch S Tronic automatic transmission, it achieves a 0-60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds
Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures exceptional grip and stability in various road conditions. The sedan sits on 19-inch alloy wheels and features a sport-tuned suspension for precise handling. Fuel efficiency is rated at an EPA estimate of 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Engine Performance and Efficiency
The 2018 Audi RS3 is powered by a 2.5-liter TFSI® five-cylinder engine, a hallmark of Audi’s performance lineup:
- Power Output: The engine delivers 400 horsepower between 5,850 and 7,000 rpm and 354 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm, providing robust acceleration across a broad range of speeds.
- Transmission: A seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures quick and precise gear changes, contributing to the vehicle’s dynamic performance.
- Acceleration: The RS3 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.9 seconds, showcasing its impressive performance capabilities.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its high performance, the RS3 achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 MPg in the city and 28 MPg on the highway, resulting in a combined rating of 22 MPg.
Comparison with Competitors
In the compact luxury performance segment, the 2018 Audi RS3 faces competition from models such as the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and the BMW M2:
- Mercedes-AMG CLA 45: The CLA 45 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 375 horsepower. While it performs strongly, the RS3’s five-cylinder engine provides a unique character and higher power output.
- Both vehicles include all-wheel drive, but the RS3’s Quattro system stands out for its exceptional effectiveness in various driving conditions.
- The BMW M2 uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that delivers 365 horsepower.
| Aspect | 2018 Audi RS3 | Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 | BMW M2 |
| Engine | 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder | 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.0L turbocharged inline-six |
| Horsepower | 400 hp | 375 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 354-ft | 350-ft | 343 lb-ft |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2018 Audi RS3 is a remarkable blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, making it a standout in the compact luxury sedan market. Its powerful 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine, combined with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensures exceptional performance and handling in diverse driving conditions.
The RS3’s refined interior, advanced technology features, and competitive pricing further enhance its appeal. Compared to the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 and BMW M2, the RS3 delivers a unique driving experience with its robust powertrain and versatile design.
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FAQs
With 401 horsepower and 369 pounds of torque, the 2.5-liter, five-cylinder turbocharged engine produces plenty of power, reaching 60 mph in 3.3 seconds.
The Audi RS3 is priced between £59,510 and £68,650. The starting price for cash is £59,510.
The brake pedal feels unresponsive.
Prices are ridiculous.
Cabin is tight.
