As an owner of a stage 2 RS3 sedan, I won't be selling this car. To me, it's perfect. Nimble, economical (for a 370kWaw car), big enough but small enough, sporty, stunningly beautiful (Audi exclusive colour), reliable. It just ticks every box.
@@hobo1704 if it's reliable then it's still worth it as you won't be fixing it all the time. also if you can afford this car you can afford to fix it.
I have a 2017 S3 fully optioned and as a mechanic myself here is what I have to say. Check that the water pump and thermostat housing has been replaced if the car has 50k or more. They almost all fail at 45-55k but are replaced under warranty for a new revised version. After that they seem to be ok. Parts are actually really cheap if you get them from an aftermarket euro distributor. Audi make very few of their own parts. Most are made by other German manufacturers which sell the same part with no Audi logo for 1/5 of the price. As for rattles and such, I've had a rattle in my LHS door trim which was an easy fix by retightening all the torq screws. The only thing that is fairly annoying is a slight whistle from the mirrors. The new FL model mirrors make a little whistle in some instances. Other than all that I absolutely love the car and look forward to any drive. It's a great car and I'll definitely buy another.
@@tristanmemmons yeah generally they are as it's a known failure point. If they say no then just push for it. A water pump shouldn't fail at 50k. Usually you replace them every 100k as a precaution. Shouldn't ever get to the point of failure.
@@brendonv101 Interesting, maybe they have different laws in Europe because it's certainly not warrantied here in America. I work at an independent shop that works closely for the dealer and none of our customer have gotten it replaced under warranty. Which we would encourage if possible of course.
@@tristanmemmons this is in Australia. We have pretty good consumer protection laws over here. Regardless of a products warranty, it still has to last a reasonable amount of time. E.g a water pump should last longer than 50k and therefore qualifies.
@@brendonv101 You know what's crazy... A customer of ours with a 2016 S3 came in today and mentioned he got a letter for a class action lawsuit about the water pump and that they would reimburse him for the cost of the repair. I had never heard of it before, yet there it was, the same day I denied it existed in America! www.classaction.org/media/zhao-et-al-v-volkswagen-group-of-america-inc-et-al.pdf
I watched so many of your videos when I was looking for a cheap but reliable work runner and cleaned up with a bargain little Mazda 2. Now, regardless of the fact I'll likely never own a Audi of any form I still can't get enough of all the vids you release. Just so entertaining to watch. Anyone I come a across in the market for a new car I always point in your direction. You guys deserve everything coming your way. Top work 🤙
I have a 2018 RS3 that I bought brand new. It's surprisingly one of the best cars i've owned. It puts a smile on my face everytime i drive it. I took it to a quarter mile track and in total stock form it did a best of 11.92 seconds at 117 mph. If i had better traction / tires i bet it could do even better. Just a great overall car and have had absolutely zero issues with it to date ..
I bought a used 2018 with 77k miikes on it with extensive service history almost a year and a half ago and it still runs like a top. Absolute beast of a car with very little work needed. One of the best cars I've ever driven. So much fun and so much powerz and Always catches people by surprise.
Here today for the first time and the production value is quite impressive. I'm a longtime Smoking Tire/Doug Demuro guy but the way this is built specifically for those who are shopping a used car is smart. I'll come back for sure!
Oh man what a great review. Had me laughing out loud so many times. You guys are great, so entertaining?! My wife still doesn’t get why I watch so many car vids, but I think these reviews are a large part of it 😂
Can’t agree more. I sincerely believe the ReDriven team would be a worthy addition to UA-cam Car Reviewer Universe. I look forward to seeing you guys doing crossover with the likes of Throttle House, Donut, AutoTrader and Autoalex.
Bought my 1st Audi last year, S5 sportback. Love it. Mostly hwy driving and getting 8.0L/100km. Only issue so far, with extremely cold snowy winter days ... once the door is closed the window usually adjusts up for a finally closure. The excess freezing moisture and cold doesn't allow this to happen. Have to jack up the heated defrost to get that seal to occur. With all the positives with this vehicle I'm willing to put up with that for the 3wks we have the coldest weather here.
Not usually a fan of these flat colours, but looks alright on this. Killer review guys, as always. These things are absolute weapons.... Not sure I'd buy one without warranty, but as you say, if you can afford to buy and maintain, pull the trigger. That death metal bit. Truly terrifying...
I have had one from new since March 2018 - great car. Things that go wrong - probably the worst is squeaking exhaust valves - there is no access to lubricate and Audi (the clowns) suggest a new backbox back exhaust at £2k. Might have to cut into it to lube and repair. Paint is a bit prone to chipping although this is common with water based paints now. Some dash rattles now but nothing too bad. Pan roof creaks open or closed - fitted an H&R ARB which greatly reduced the issue. Oh - and paint on the sports exhaust is of dreadful quality - the PFL sports exhaust was chrome and wanted to turn black and the FL is black trying to turn into chrome - sort it Audi! Upsides of ownership - it is a weapon! And the noise!!!!!! Downsides - dealing with Audi, people acting mad thinking you are going 100mph when you are actually within the speed limit (noise again) and mpg if you drive it like it is meant to be driven - I get 4mpg on track as an extreme example. Would I buy it again - a no brainer. In fact I can't think of anything to replace it with (unless mega money is involved) so it is still a keeper for me.
Current owner of a 2017 Sportback RS3. I’m so glad we have the exact same issues. My local mechanic is able to lithium and copper grease the exhaust value and that made a huge difference. Needs to be redone every 6 months or so but i just do it at oil changes.
These thing held their value so well second hand! Also if you guys could add cold start and reving noise of performance cars in your videos would be awesome! Thank you as always for great reviews!
my doors match up great. 70K miles later I don't have any noises or sounds, quality has been great. Mine is Stage 2, e85 tuned and have never had a problem. Note if you run e85 change the oil more b/c it does thin the oil. I also run same size tires and the RS3 is not a track car (it pushes like a pig). Daily driver, again: 70K tuned miles and mine is perfect but I maintain it perfectly. I still get 33MPG on E85 and 35 on 93 octane. Also note you can do 90% of the maintence yourself with friends, its so easy to take care of. AND YES you do need a 600hp car that goes 0-62 in 2.9 seconds, tell me why you don't.
The reason I don't need a a 600hp car that goes 0-62 in 2.9 seconds is because I struggle with self discipline and need my license! Those two things do not coexist in harmony. - AK
Absolutely love this video. So much information delivered with style and humour. I just bought a 2016 PFL from an Audi dealership. Thankfully with 2 year factory warranty. It has replaced a 2013 BRZ and 2015 Octavia RS wagon. Im in love. I just stare at it in my shed 😂
I had a post face-lift RS3 sedan which I loved. I think your review is accurate and complete and entertaining. Jim is right. Mine was inherently reliable, but at 10,000km I was up for front pads and rotors at an eye watering $4500! A couple of things though. The leather isn't leather. It's fake leather, presumably from a fake cow or two. Mine started to get shiny after 10,000 km but refurbished well. You mention park assist as and option. This wasn't available, at least on post face-lift models. I know it was an option on lesser A3 based vehicles. The door misalignment. I wonder if the car you reviewed has had crash damage. I say this because of the odd ball mix of trim colours. This car is a post facelift vehicle. There were two exterior design packages available: gloss black and satin. This determined the colour of the front bumper inserts, the wing mirror caps, the trim around the doors, and the rear bumper details. This car has a mix of both! Also, the front bumper has the details in the lateral vents painted the same as the rest of the bumper. These should be gloss black or satin as per the design pack chosen. Thanks for another great review. I look forward to what ever comes next.
@@koksaltskenneth No. I ticked all the boxes except for the ceramic brake package (circa $8k) and the carbon fibre engine cover (circa $2500 if I recall). I had the LED matric lights, sunroof, RS performance package (offset wheel sizes - bigger on the front as Jim says, and adaptive dampers) and RS design package (red vents and stitching and the B&O sound system)
I have a low 10 second 8V RS3 and a stage 3 Merc a45 A45 hands down for my daily but my weekend is definitely the RS3 because dam does it move out - engine build and tte777 nearly finished too - 9 second street car on street rubber alert
US RS3 owner here. Definitely no issues with seeing my virtual cockpit screen, even in direct sunlight. Maybe that screen is starting to go out? Also, all of my air vents rotate from 12-3 o'clock.
You can tweak the brightness of the virtual cockpit and/or MMI via VCDS. There is a brightness sensor in the dash in a less than ideal location when you have the RHD version of the vehicle.
Great review! I’d love if you could do a review of a VW Golf R32 (Mk V). I am considering buying a used one and really want to know what they’re like now.
Sold my caldina 05 , bought a q50s hybrid infinity 2016 1 owner 55ks on it for $36k , 0 to 100 , 5.1 , fuel best I can get 7.8 per 100 , i love the rs3 one of my favourite cars could probably afford one , I don't want to pay the running cost , good review mate,
One of my favourite channels that I only recently found! Love the videos bro! Can you pleeease do one talking about a Toyota Altezza/ difference between it and the Lexus IS equivalent??
Awesome review. Would love an RS3. I’m a little surprised by the driver door dropping. My 2015 Skoda Octavia RS with 115000km on the clock hasn’t suffered that yet.
I purchased a 2017 MY18 that I didn’t know had been previously tuned and returned to stock. Noticed a noise and it had a scorched piston from previous owner. Lucky the dealer and warranty company are rebuilding the engine for me. Car has been away 7 months now….
@@ReDriven golf R. Yay👏👏👏I’m actually looking the older (gen 1 I think) RS3 Sportback as the 2015+ are still a bit pricey. Currently driving an F80 M3 but I need a daily driver as the M3 is a weekend toy. Great work on this video once again👏👏🙌🙌👍
Here in Ontario Canada if your'e caught doing 50 kmh over the speed limit you receive a $10,000 fine plus your car is impounded. So I use cruise control daily to avoid that speed.
Wow. A Euro that ReDriven actually likes and approves of. For me, the two main reasons to buy a 3rd gen RS3 are: 1) the compact size combined with decent luxury, making it ideal for city slickers; 2) the 5-cylinder engine that not only offers great performance but also sounds special (it is also the reason not to buy an S3).
Another good review guys and I can say that 95% of people that drive past me at work in any form of Audi are either on their phones or arrogant gits so wouldn't surprise me if they all park like that lol. Was about ready to start headbanging with the safety section then you cut off it lol 😆 😂. Like matt dowling said I've been sending people too check you guys out when they're looking for a new car especially now that I've got 2 of the Redriven shirts to wear as I get people asking me about it and I explain the basics of your channel and send them your way. Would like too see a top 5 of what car sound systems are the best and worst to have in your car especially with your musical background Adam. Like i said before guys brilliant video and congrats on breaking 74k subs 👍. Not much longer til you hit the silver play button. Have a good weekend guys and look forward to next week's videos as always.
@@ReDriven should get Adam to do a top 5 list doing different music genres for each one he mentions in it lol. Def have to have the death metal for the top spot lol 😆 😂
Passed on a used RS3. Found it flat and boring unless you ran it in Sport mode. Went FBO Stage 2 on my Golf R and it is enough for me, love it and way faster than a stock RS3....
why would you just not get a rs3 and go stage 2? lol i sure hope a stage 2 R is faster than a stock rs3. Pretty dumb comment imo. A stage 2 rs3 puts high 500s to the wheels. Hybrids turbos make about 700 wheel.
Love this video and it helped me deide to buy my 2018 RS3 saloon. One thing you failed to mention is the waterpump which is prone to failure and isnt a cheap or easy fix..
@@JohnPedder I had to fix my waterpump on my s3 and it costed me $1500 and that was the cheapest quote around. I’m not sure about an upgraded one but the mechanic which is also a tuning place told me it’s the most common issue because of its poor design and poor material used
I have a2019 rs3 and have owned a golf r. I love the engine on the rs but preferred the interior of the golf. Personal but I found the golf seats more comfy.
Right now they're too over priced... alot of places are trying to get original retail for them. Golf r mk7 has come down decently enough but gtis have gone up to golf r prices. I'd hold off on buying a new car even a new used car right now
I have owned 2 Audi in my life never an S3 but I would strongly agree that you DONT MISS SERVICES if you want to buy one check the service records. If it's not available or not routine I wouldn't buy it
F80 m3 comp if you are tracking. RS3 if you like dragging everyone at the lights. honestly the F80 m3 is very spikey on the tq band however it is manageable. Make sure you get the crank hub changed to a keyed hub on the m3 as well. overall both cars are great, but for different reasons
I've been driving high powered barra's for a long time but the lack of traction on the street is starting to get annoying, I will be definitely looking at an RS3 as my next car.
The bits and pieces wrong with the interior is from owner negligence I'm afraid. The steering wheel is gross - the Alcantara should be cleaned weekly. The leather being shiny is from human sweat and again, not being cleaned regularly. All the run stains from drinks spilled inside in random parts is gross too. All you need to do is clean an interior once every couple weeks and it'll look like new for a long time.
Air vent on the driver's side has definitely been taken out and broken. I've had my S3 for 9 years and they are all of them are still like new. Same for the centre console. No bubbling on switches, steering wheel leather is still matt and leather seats the same (use Auto Glym leather cleaner and leather balm). The interior still feels new and everyone can't believe the age of the car. Any jerkiness with the DSG can be fixed by doing an easy DSG reset using OBD II (just search on UA-cam - same for any VAG car). The car has been smashed on the driver's side. Would never have left the factory like that. Cubby under the driver's seat holds a factory supplied first aid kit. I look after mine and it shows. The same for any quality car. This car has been treated poorly - run a mile. And if you're after a sleeper with the performance of the RS3, an S3 with a stage 1 034 Motorsports and DSG tune will get you similar performance. And use Liqui Moly Oil and additives (Fuel System Cleaner every 10k)
I would say thats a buggered example. Doesn’t seem very well looked after, given the interior wear. That misaligned door is sus as. Brilliant review, naturally.
I had an RS3 lovely car had a couple of issues but overall it was pretty good fun. I ran into a guy with 1M coupe had a drive sold the RS3 couldn’t get rid of it quick enough.
I wouldn't buy one unless i was absolutely surely how it has been treated and maintained, the typical rs3 i see on the road is absolutely thrashed and driven within an inch of its life
have yet to ever see a rs3 on the road that is even close to how your describing lol and even then they are pretty bulletproof. Not too many issues that you dont have with normal cars.
This generation of Audi RS3 looks much better with the latest one and it's grill which is way too big for the front end... 5 or 10 cylinder's is the way to go with Audi's, great video 👍
It is well established that European prestige cars come with a high cost of ownership - particularly beyond the warranty period. I recall a large poster in the service reception of one such brand which read: Engineered for the Emotions. At the time I was dealing with disappointment, anger, annoyance and was recovering from fear, after the auto transmission defaulted to 3rd gear when I was pulling out across oncoming traffic. (They never rectified that intermittent fault). Buy a car. Not a prototype.
Also, the car you drove has not been looked after. Misaligned doors is NOT a good sign. Dings and scratches on the hard plastics is a worry. And the second you see a steering wheel where the alcantara is smooth and shiny on the steering wheel tells you the owner doesn't respect his/her whip. I'd run from that example.
all honesty if you're reading this and can't commit to the price of a rs3 the s3 is the next best thing 120xxx km's and no issues I love mine and don't plan on selling. If you don't keep up on service the only issue I've heard was the waterpump which can be pricey in AU
It is for modern Audis. These are RS models which are typically very well made. Its the lower end A models and cheaper VW models that tend to have problems but thats typically older ones. I own a euro shop. Audi and BMW have come a long way recently. Now its no toyota or honda but still very good cars none the less.
Totally agree with what you say about the 'wankers'. A racetrack maniac wouldn't buy and RS3, leaving only average drivers to own them on the road. And for those, the limits and driving 'faults' of the RS3 are way beyond their best.
@@akent46 sure, some also drive vans on tracks (no, I'm not comparing an RS3 to a van). What I meant is if you want to make the most of a racetrack and are looking for the best lap times, it's not the car to go for. Which is not an insult to the car itself or anyone, just a fact.
I work in an enviroment where everyone has to own a sporty German car....and what I learned from them is to never go near a German car lol The amount of issues ranging from blown engines (multiple times) to cars catching fire is mind blowing lol. They just might be unlucky but...as someone said 1-2 clues might be a coincidence 3 and onward is proof.
Please Review the stronic trans rolling through a parkinglot low speeds looking for a spot or in slow stop go traffic. ‘18 owner. Its a wild crazy daily.
Can't say I would buy one. For the price of a good example RS3 I could have my current whip (Subaru levorg MY17 2.0 GT-S) as a daily, and a good 2012 Lexus IS-F as weekend/fun car.
a isf is easily in the 30-40k range for a decent miles one. You can buy a rs3 now with 50k miles or less for low $40k. people act like the prices are insane but they really arent and they will outperform a isf in quite possibly every single way. Ive owned both and i love the ISF but the RS3 is in a completely different league.
You missed a major point of these - the post FL models are one of the best platforms to modify. Full stop. That’s the major reason performance car people buy them. There are far more tuned ones than stock ones on the road. Oh and because of that (and low supply) the resale value is incredible. These are the two most important aspects of the car
Engine-wise sure, but you're better off going for something else if you wanna be fast on a track. Even engine-wise it depends on your target. This is a really good engine for a few bolt-ons (easy and cheap to get 500-and-some HP) but gets expensive mighty quick if you plan to get more than 600 since the internals won't hold.
@@Chair991 tell you what: go buy an RS3, tune it to 750HP and tell us how much it lasts. Maybe that'll stop you from spouting such unadultered ignorance when there's so much documentation out there. Perhaps you'll find the difference between 'reliable' and 'doesnt blow up after a few pulls' while you're at it.
As an owner of a stage 2 RS3 sedan, I won't be selling this car. To me, it's perfect. Nimble, economical (for a 370kWaw car), big enough but small enough, sporty, stunningly beautiful (Audi exclusive colour), reliable. It just ticks every box.
You will be selling it when you realise how much shit costs to fix 😂
@@hobo1704 if it's reliable then it's still worth it as you won't be fixing it all the time. also if you can afford this car you can afford to fix it.
I have my rs3 from 2018 with +200.000KM
And still fast and ZERO problems ❤ Respect to audi 🤜🤛
I have a 2017 S3 fully optioned and as a mechanic myself here is what I have to say.
Check that the water pump and thermostat housing has been replaced if the car has 50k or more. They almost all fail at 45-55k but are replaced under warranty for a new revised version. After that they seem to be ok.
Parts are actually really cheap if you get them from an aftermarket euro distributor. Audi make very few of their own parts. Most are made by other German manufacturers which sell the same part with no Audi logo for 1/5 of the price.
As for rattles and such, I've had a rattle in my LHS door trim which was an easy fix by retightening all the torq screws. The only thing that is fairly annoying is a slight whistle from the mirrors. The new FL model mirrors make a little whistle in some instances.
Other than all that I absolutely love the car and look forward to any drive. It's a great car and I'll definitely buy another.
Water pump and thermostat are under warranty? I wasn't aware of this?
@@tristanmemmons yeah generally they are as it's a known failure point. If they say no then just push for it. A water pump shouldn't fail at 50k. Usually you replace them every 100k as a precaution. Shouldn't ever get to the point of failure.
@@brendonv101 Interesting, maybe they have different laws in Europe because it's certainly not warrantied here in America. I work at an independent shop that works closely for the dealer and none of our customer have gotten it replaced under warranty. Which we would encourage if possible of course.
@@tristanmemmons this is in Australia. We have pretty good consumer protection laws over here. Regardless of a products warranty, it still has to last a reasonable amount of time. E.g a water pump should last longer than 50k and therefore qualifies.
@@brendonv101 You know what's crazy... A customer of ours with a 2016 S3 came in today and mentioned he got a letter for a class action lawsuit about the water pump and that they would reimburse him for the cost of the repair. I had never heard of it before, yet there it was, the same day I denied it existed in America!
www.classaction.org/media/zhao-et-al-v-volkswagen-group-of-america-inc-et-al.pdf
I watched so many of your videos when I was looking for a cheap but reliable work runner and cleaned up with a bargain little Mazda 2. Now, regardless of the fact I'll likely never own a Audi of any form I still can't get enough of all the vids you release. Just so entertaining to watch. Anyone I come a across in the market for a new car I always point in your direction. You guys deserve everything coming your way. Top work 🤙
No matter what we drive still interesting to see other cars.
Thanks so much Matt, we’re stoked you’re enjoying the channel, and really appreciate the kind words!
The Mazda2 will never be Audi quick, but it's a great driving little car!
Never say never. There’s nothing stopping you from achieving your dreams
Ignore the above if you genuinely don’t want or care about having an Audi 😂
Dont give up on driving your dream car. That said a cheap Audi is actually a very expensive Audi
I have a 2018 RS3 that I bought brand new. It's surprisingly one of the best cars i've owned. It puts a smile on my face everytime i drive it. I took it to a quarter mile track and in total stock form it did a best of 11.92 seconds at 117 mph. If i had better traction / tires i bet it could do even better. Just a great overall car and have had absolutely zero issues with it to date ..
Keep an eye on the waterpump mate. It's a common fault on these. Mine has just shat itself, 2018 model.
@@brianlangdon7680Thanks for the tip! I have a 2019 with almost 20,000 miles
I bought a used 2018 with 77k miikes on it with extensive service history almost a year and a half ago and it still runs like a top. Absolute beast of a car with very little work needed. One of the best cars I've ever driven. So much fun and so much powerz and Always catches people by surprise.
I’m looking at a 2019 with 39,500km in Canada
Here today for the first time and the production value is quite impressive. I'm a longtime Smoking Tire/Doug Demuro guy but the way this is built specifically for those who are shopping a used car is smart. I'll come back for sure!
lol Doug and smoking tire are two of the worst car blogs there are
Oh man what a great review. Had me laughing out loud so many times. You guys are great, so entertaining?! My wife still doesn’t get why I watch so many car vids, but I think these reviews are a large part of it 😂
Thanks so much, James!
Can’t agree more. I sincerely believe the ReDriven team would be a worthy addition to UA-cam Car Reviewer Universe. I look forward to seeing you guys doing crossover with the likes of Throttle House, Donut, AutoTrader and Autoalex.
Bought my 1st Audi last year, S5 sportback. Love it. Mostly hwy driving and getting 8.0L/100km. Only issue so far, with extremely cold snowy winter days ... once the door is closed the window usually adjusts up for a finally closure. The excess freezing moisture and cold doesn't allow this to happen. Have to jack up the heated defrost to get that seal to occur. With all the positives with this vehicle I'm willing to put up with that for the 3wks we have the coldest weather here.
Not usually a fan of these flat colours, but looks alright on this.
Killer review guys, as always.
These things are absolute weapons....
Not sure I'd buy one without warranty, but as you say, if you can afford to buy and maintain, pull the trigger.
That death metal bit. Truly terrifying...
I was just in the market for an RS3 nardo grey 2017+ model and saw this video a few hours later. I think the universe is giving me a sign, thanks AK!
Do it. Nardo grey Octavia RS owner here and I love it.
Fuckin’ do it! 2017 Nardo Grey owner here and it is unbelievably good.
Did you get one? Just got mine it’s unreal
Hey mate no I ended up getting a golf r mk 7.5. Invested in a business but next year rs3 will be mine !
@@jonodunn2592
Loved the death metal safety features segment lol
For real though it was actually good
Mad blast beats!
My only complaint was the sound level was too low. It should of been hot. Heck yeah.
I have had one from new since March 2018 - great car. Things that go wrong - probably the worst is squeaking exhaust valves - there is no access to lubricate and Audi (the clowns) suggest a new backbox back exhaust at £2k. Might have to cut into it to lube and repair. Paint is a bit prone to chipping although this is common with water based paints now. Some dash rattles now but nothing too bad. Pan roof creaks open or closed - fitted an H&R ARB which greatly reduced the issue. Oh - and paint on the sports exhaust is of dreadful quality - the PFL sports exhaust was chrome and wanted to turn black and the FL is black trying to turn into chrome - sort it Audi!
Upsides of ownership - it is a weapon! And the noise!!!!!!
Downsides - dealing with Audi, people acting mad thinking you are going 100mph when you are actually within the speed limit (noise again) and mpg if you drive it like it is meant to be driven - I get 4mpg on track as an extreme example.
Would I buy it again - a no brainer. In fact I can't think of anything to replace it with (unless mega money is involved) so it is still a keeper for me.
Current owner of a 2017 Sportback RS3. I’m so glad we have the exact same issues. My local mechanic is able to lithium and copper grease the exhaust value and that made a huge difference. Needs to be redone every 6 months or so but i just do it at oil changes.
The hidden pocket under the driver seat is for the 1st Aid pack. Well that's what my A3 in South Africa came with.
Hahaha the heavy metal caught me off guard!! First time ever seeing a ReDriven video. I’ll subscribe just because of that!
Just bought a second-hand 2017 FL model, and I love it. I'm glad you approve. Love your review!
2017 model is the best one. It’s the most tuneable as pre opf. I know I’ve had one for 5 years
How has your reliability been with the rs3? Thinking ab making a switch from my mk7 golf r
These thing held their value so well second hand! Also if you guys could add cold start and reving noise of performance cars in your videos would be awesome! Thank you as always for great reviews!
I love this channel, i can't get enough! The presenter is like an Aussie Doug Demuro X Tyler Hoovie
my doors match up great. 70K miles later I don't have any noises or sounds, quality has been great. Mine is Stage 2, e85 tuned and have never had a problem. Note if you run e85 change the oil more b/c it does thin the oil. I also run same size tires and the RS3 is not a track car (it pushes like a pig). Daily driver, again: 70K tuned miles and mine is perfect but I maintain it perfectly. I still get 33MPG on E85 and 35 on 93 octane. Also note you can do 90% of the maintence yourself with friends, its so easy to take care of. AND YES you do need a 600hp car that goes 0-62 in 2.9 seconds, tell me why you don't.
The reason I don't need a a 600hp car that goes 0-62 in 2.9 seconds is because I struggle with self discipline and need my license! Those two things do not coexist in harmony. - AK
@@ReDriven so true. I stand corrected. I have been driving the e36 m3 more b/c of those reasons
No way you get that good mpg on e85
Absolutely love this video. So much information delivered with style and humour. I just bought a 2016 PFL from an Audi dealership. Thankfully with 2 year factory warranty. It has replaced a 2013 BRZ and 2015 Octavia RS wagon. Im in love. I just stare at it in my shed 😂
Have a 2019 and she’s a trooper. Great car. Strongly built.
Great review as always guys, you’re videos are always entertaining and it’s refreshing to see. Keep up the awesome work!
I had a post face-lift RS3 sedan which I loved. I think your review is accurate and complete and entertaining. Jim is right. Mine was inherently reliable, but at 10,000km I was up for front pads and rotors at an eye watering $4500! A couple of things though. The leather isn't leather. It's fake leather, presumably from a fake cow or two. Mine started to get shiny after 10,000 km but refurbished well. You mention park assist as and option. This wasn't available, at least on post face-lift models. I know it was an option on lesser A3 based vehicles. The door misalignment. I wonder if the car you reviewed has had crash damage. I say this because of the odd ball mix of trim colours. This car is a post facelift vehicle. There were two exterior design packages available: gloss black and satin. This determined the colour of the front bumper inserts, the wing mirror caps, the trim around the doors, and the rear bumper details. This car has a mix of both! Also, the front bumper has the details in the lateral vents painted the same as the rest of the bumper. These should be gloss black or satin as per the design pack chosen. Thanks for another great review. I look forward to what ever comes next.
The leather on the wingback RS performance seats were nappa leather....
did you have the carbon ceramic brakes or what there are called? i’m opting for the standard steel ones, as they are at least, an option here
100% real leather, and Nappa leather too. No RS3 came without Nappa leather.
A mate of mine has a A45 AMG and his pads and rotors were about or near 4500 as well. He was shocked hahaha but had to pay it.
@@koksaltskenneth No. I ticked all the boxes except for the ceramic brake package (circa $8k) and the carbon fibre engine cover (circa $2500 if I recall). I had the LED matric lights, sunroof, RS performance package (offset wheel sizes - bigger on the front as Jim says, and adaptive dampers) and RS design package (red vents and stitching and the B&O sound system)
I lost it at the Pantera part. Hahaha. Excellent work, as always.
I have a low 10 second 8V RS3 and a stage 3 Merc a45
A45 hands down for my daily but my weekend is definitely the RS3 because dam does it move out - engine build and tte777 nearly finished too - 9 second street car on street rubber alert
I am a petrolhead but 1 minute watching the video i am already loving and having my eyes focused on your sneakers more than the RS3. Nice kicks mate
Haha cheers mate!
forget the rs3, where can I get the sneakers@@ReDriven
My dream car, tho not being available in manual I bought a MK2 TT RS instead which was also about half the price of a good second hand RS3.
The metal/hardcore band voiceover was genius :) As a fan of the genre, you did great - did you play metal before?
I'm a bit of a sucker for 5 cylinders, the ea855evo is a pretty solid engine with lots of potential.
I’m watching this from the US and when you said it came as a hatchback THEN as a sedan I actually shed a tear
US RS3 owner here. Definitely no issues with seeing my virtual cockpit screen, even in direct sunlight. Maybe that screen is starting to go out? Also, all of my air vents rotate from 12-3 o'clock.
He was talking about the pop-up screen bro 😇
Is it just me or is this guy really funny!!😂😂what a legend! Great video man
sounds like a total tosser to me lmao
You can tweak the brightness of the virtual cockpit and/or MMI via VCDS. There is a brightness sensor in the dash in a less than ideal location when you have the RHD version of the vehicle.
I was looking for this a few days ago, glad you did this episode
Morris gets me everytime with the height comparisons. Best car channel on youtube. Would love to see your thoughts on a Peugeot 206 RC or a Fiesta ST
Great review! I’d love if you could do a review of a VW Golf R32 (Mk V). I am considering buying a used one and really want to know what they’re like now.
PLEASE 🙏
Sold my caldina 05 , bought a q50s hybrid infinity 2016 1 owner 55ks on it for $36k , 0 to 100 , 5.1 , fuel best I can get 7.8 per 100 , i love the rs3 one of my favourite cars could probably afford one , I don't want to pay the running cost , good review mate,
One of my favourite automotive youtube channels!
One of my favourite channels that I only recently found! Love the videos bro! Can you pleeease do one talking about a Toyota Altezza/ difference between it and the Lexus IS equivalent??
I'm really looking to upgrade from my 2017audis3 to rs3 and this really help me decide. Thanks
The “legal representation” at the end made me spit out my coffee with laughter!! 😂😂😂😂 my god guys your reviews are amazing I love the humour 👌
Great video! Would love to see one on the a3!
Great video dude. Really awesome effort and detail. Thanks!
Awesome review. Would love an RS3. I’m a little surprised by the driver door dropping. My 2015 Skoda Octavia RS with 115000km on the clock hasn’t suffered that yet.
I purchased a 2017 MY18 that I didn’t know had been previously tuned and returned to stock. Noticed a noise and it had a scorched piston from previous owner. Lucky the dealer and warranty company are rebuilding the engine for me. Car has been away 7 months now….
That drivetrain is all I want for my upcoming B5 S4 project 🤤
Hey love the video. Question, you planning on doing something like this video for the RS3 but for the S3 for us lesser men that can't afford an RS3?
Daniel there's a video coming very soon that will answer your question. It's the S3's near identical sibling. - AK
@@ReDriven awesome! Thanks a lot ✌🏼
@@ReDriven golf R. Yay👏👏👏I’m actually looking the older (gen 1 I think) RS3 Sportback as the 2015+ are still a bit pricey.
Currently driving an F80 M3 but I need a daily driver as the M3 is a weekend toy.
Great work on this video once again👏👏🙌🙌👍
Here in Ontario Canada if your'e caught doing 50 kmh over the speed limit you receive a $10,000 fine plus your car is impounded. So I use cruise control daily to avoid that speed.
Such a well made video! Kudos to the whole team!!
Wow. A Euro that ReDriven actually likes and approves of. For me, the two main reasons to buy a 3rd gen RS3 are: 1) the compact size combined with decent luxury, making it ideal for city slickers; 2) the 5-cylinder engine that not only offers great performance but also sounds special (it is also the reason not to buy an S3).
Another good review guys and I can say that 95% of people that drive past me at work in any form of Audi are either on their phones or arrogant gits so wouldn't surprise me if they all park like that lol.
Was about ready to start headbanging with the safety section then you cut off it lol 😆 😂.
Like matt dowling said I've been sending people too check you guys out when they're looking for a new car especially now that I've got 2 of the Redriven shirts to wear as I get people asking me about it and I explain the basics of your channel and send them your way.
Would like too see a top 5 of what car sound systems are the best and worst to have in your car especially with your musical background Adam.
Like i said before guys brilliant video and congrats on breaking 74k subs 👍. Not much longer til you hit the silver play button. Have a good weekend guys and look forward to next week's videos as always.
Cheers Donners! Appreciate the kind words
@@ReDriven should get Adam to do a top 5 list doing different music genres for each one he mentions in it lol. Def have to have the death metal for the top spot lol 😆 😂
Absolutely loved the safety voice over. 🤘
I love seeing Audi reviews.
The heavy metal voice over was the best and I recommend it on all reviews
Passed on a used RS3. Found it flat and boring unless you ran it in Sport mode. Went FBO Stage 2 on my Golf R and it is enough for me, love it and way faster than a stock RS3....
why would you just not get a rs3 and go stage 2? lol i sure hope a stage 2 R is faster than a stock rs3. Pretty dumb comment imo. A stage 2 rs3 puts high 500s to the wheels. Hybrids turbos make about 700 wheel.
@@fewminutestudio959 He's a dumbass, he has never driven an RS3, he's full of shit lmao
I went for the S3, more than enough car for me, and nearly 40mpg on a motorway run its a great fun car
Are they reliable
@@YEEEEETSKIII so far so good. I’ve had it 2 years, serviced on time at Audi Sterling,, I’d recommend one
Love this video and it helped me deide to buy my 2018 RS3 saloon. One thing you failed to mention is the waterpump which is prone to failure and isnt a cheap or easy fix..
If there’s a “fix”, there’s also an “upgrade”. Did you upgrade it, or simply fix it? Honest question :)
@@JohnPedder I had to fix my waterpump on my s3 and it costed me $1500 and that was the cheapest quote around. I’m not sure about an upgraded one but the mechanic which is also a tuning place told me it’s the most common issue because of its poor design and poor material used
I have a2019 rs3 and have owned a golf r. I love the engine on the rs but preferred the interior of the golf. Personal but I found the golf seats more comfy.
How has reliability been with the rs3? I’ve spent more than I’d like on my mk7 golf r just in service alone, thinking ab making the switch to the rs3
IMO easily fits the description as the 'Ultimate Sleeper'. Came close to purchasing one.
I brought a Nardo Grey Octavia RS wagon. With a stage 2 tune that is a real stealth jet right there!
Right now they're too over priced... alot of places are trying to get original retail for them. Golf r mk7 has come down decently enough but gtis have gone up to golf r prices. I'd hold off on buying a new car even a new used car right now
AWESOME video and review. The RS3 is an awesome machine. In my opinion way to pricey, but thats the price you pay
I have owned 2 Audi in my life never an S3 but I would strongly agree that you DONT MISS SERVICES if you want to buy one check the service records. If it's not available or not routine I wouldn't buy it
Love my RS3, fantastic performance in a small, lightish package. Not to mention the 5 cylinder noises are awesome.
Love the safety tech reel. 😅
really keen to see you do the RS5 8T now😃
The review I’ve been waiting for! Coming out of an Aussie classic, a HSV, I’m deciding whether I go for a F80 M3 Comp or RS3 as my next ride.
F80 m3 comp if you are tracking. RS3 if you like dragging everyone at the lights. honestly the F80 m3 is very spikey on the tq band however it is manageable. Make sure you get the crank hub changed to a keyed hub on the m3 as well. overall both cars are great, but for different reasons
I was deciding between them as well - ended up with the F80 because its more driver focused and looks much tougher. Can't go wrong with either though.
@E92M3 I had a f80 m3 for 2yrs running e85 with just capture plate didn't do crank hub and had zero issues.. smoked stage 3 e85 rs3 from a roll
I've been driving high powered barra's for a long time but the lack of traction on the street is starting to get annoying, I will be definitely looking at an RS3 as my next car.
Stick with the Barra, you will be disappointed with the reliability of these euro nuggets.
Great while they are working but way too temperamental.
For anyone who's wandering, the fragrance is Abercrombie & Fitch's Authentic 🙂
Glad to see you took my suggestion regarding the 0-60 and 60-100km/h!
The bits and pieces wrong with the interior is from owner negligence I'm afraid. The steering wheel is gross - the Alcantara should be cleaned weekly. The leather being shiny is from human sweat and again, not being cleaned regularly. All the run stains from drinks spilled inside in random parts is gross too. All you need to do is clean an interior once every couple weeks and it'll look like new for a long time.
Awesome adz I'd love one. I just bought a A4 Avant for the Mrs and it's a great car! 👍
Air vent on the driver's side has definitely been taken out and broken. I've had my S3 for 9 years and they are all of them are still like new. Same for the centre console. No bubbling on switches, steering wheel leather is still matt and leather seats the same (use Auto Glym leather cleaner and leather balm). The interior still feels new and everyone can't believe the age of the car.
Any jerkiness with the DSG can be fixed by doing an easy DSG reset using OBD II (just search on UA-cam - same for any VAG car).
The car has been smashed on the driver's side. Would never have left the factory like that. Cubby under the driver's seat holds a factory supplied first aid kit.
I look after mine and it shows. The same for any quality car. This car has been treated poorly - run a mile.
And if you're after a sleeper with the performance of the RS3, an S3 with a stage 1 034 Motorsports and DSG tune will get you similar performance. And use Liqui Moly Oil and additives (Fuel System Cleaner every 10k)
Love the vids, but when you going to do a review on an audi s8?
Love this channel! Please do a video on a BMW M2
Yes please!
Absolutely!
It’s high on the list! Just need to track one down
@@ReDriven Happy to help out. I’m in Melbourne if that suits?
Having fun with my 2023 (Tango Red, no dull colors thanks)
I would say thats a buggered example. Doesn’t seem very well looked after, given the interior wear. That misaligned door is sus as. Brilliant review, naturally.
Great review mate, especially the "wanker" call
I had an RS3 lovely car had a couple of issues but overall it was pretty good fun.
I ran into a guy with 1M coupe had a drive sold the RS3 couldn’t get rid of it quick enough.
Hey mate. What issues did you have if you don’t mind sharing?
I wouldn't buy one unless i was absolutely surely how it has been treated and maintained, the typical rs3 i see on the road is absolutely thrashed and driven within an inch of its life
That's my concern with used performance cars as well. You never know how they were used.
have yet to ever see a rs3 on the road that is even close to how your describing lol and even then they are pretty bulletproof. Not too many issues that you dont have with normal cars.
i wanted pretty badly RS3, but thanks to you, i probably will go with Formentor Cupra
Formentor? 🤢🤢, in pictures they look alright but in person they look ugly asf
Had me head banging in the safety list b roll 😂
Great vid guys for a great car. I would prefer a RS TT Mk 2 any day as looks of the RS3 are pretty boring IMO.
love it. Long time fan and prospective new RS3 saloon buyer..
This generation of Audi RS3 looks much better with the latest one and it's grill which is way too big for the front end...
5 or 10 cylinder's is the way to go with Audi's, great video 👍
It is well established that European prestige cars come with a high cost of ownership - particularly beyond the warranty period.
I recall a large poster in the service reception of one such brand which read: Engineered for the Emotions.
At the time I was dealing with disappointment, anger, annoyance and was recovering from fear, after the auto transmission defaulted to 3rd gear when I was pulling out across oncoming traffic. (They never rectified that intermittent fault).
Buy a car. Not a prototype.
Also, the car you drove has not been looked after. Misaligned doors is NOT a good sign. Dings and scratches on the hard plastics is a worry. And the second you see a steering wheel where the alcantara is smooth and shiny on the steering wheel tells you the owner doesn't respect his/her whip. I'd run from that example.
all honesty if you're reading this and can't commit to the price of a rs3 the s3 is the next best thing 120xxx km's and no issues I love mine and don't plan on selling. If you don't keep up on service the only issue I've heard was the waterpump which can be pricey in AU
Was surprised when mechanic said they are actually quite good. Not a common thing out of the VW/Audi stable.
It is for modern Audis. These are RS models which are typically very well made. Its the lower end A models and cheaper VW models that tend to have problems but thats typically older ones. I own a euro shop. Audi and BMW have come a long way recently. Now its no toyota or honda but still very good cars none the less.
The hardcore heavy metal voice over was gold 😂
Totally agree with what you say about the 'wankers'. A racetrack maniac wouldn't buy and RS3, leaving only average drivers to own them on the road. And for those, the limits and driving 'faults' of the RS3 are way beyond their best.
I have seen multiple RS3s at track days mate
@@akent46 sure, some also drive vans on tracks (no, I'm not comparing an RS3 to a van). What I meant is if you want to make the most of a racetrack and are looking for the best lap times, it's not the car to go for. Which is not an insult to the car itself or anyone, just a fact.
I work in an enviroment where everyone has to own a sporty German car....and what I learned from them is to never go near a German car lol The amount of issues ranging from blown engines (multiple times) to cars catching fire is mind blowing lol. They just might be unlucky but...as someone said 1-2 clues might be a coincidence 3 and onward is proof.
This engine but mounted longitudinally in the RS4 🥵
Then they could run true Quattro 😮
I have a 2019 RS3 along with a 2020 718 Spyder. I prefer the RS3 over the Porsche, it's that good.
Please Review the stronic trans rolling through a parkinglot low speeds looking for a spot or in slow stop go traffic.
‘18 owner. Its a wild crazy daily.
You're actually that funny 🤣 🤣 good review thanks!
Great review
The death metal part was insane🎉❤😂
Can't say I would buy one. For the price of a good example RS3 I could have my current whip (Subaru levorg MY17 2.0 GT-S) as a daily, and a good 2012 Lexus IS-F as weekend/fun car.
a isf is easily in the 30-40k range for a decent miles one. You can buy a rs3 now with 50k miles or less for low $40k. people act like the prices are insane but they really arent and they will outperform a isf in quite possibly every single way. Ive owned both and i love the ISF but the RS3 is in a completely different league.
recently started looking for a new car and the RS3 is simply impossible to find in my area. Used or new!
You missed a major point of these - the post FL models are one of the best platforms to modify. Full stop. That’s the major reason performance car people buy them. There are far more tuned ones than stock ones on the road. Oh and because of that (and low supply) the resale value is incredible. These are the two most important aspects of the car
Engine-wise sure, but you're better off going for something else if you wanna be fast on a track.
Even engine-wise it depends on your target. This is a really good engine for a few bolt-ons (easy and cheap to get 500-and-some HP) but gets expensive mighty quick if you plan to get more than 600 since the internals won't hold.
@@xIcarus227 The internals easily hold over 600, stop spouting bs
@@Chair991 think I'll listen to tuners over you, thanks for the insight.
@@xIcarus227 You're not listening to tuners tho you're purely spouting shit. Internals can handle somewhere around 750hp before it gets unreliable...
@@Chair991 tell you what: go buy an RS3, tune it to 750HP and tell us how much it lasts.
Maybe that'll stop you from spouting such unadultered ignorance when there's so much documentation out there. Perhaps you'll find the difference between 'reliable' and 'doesnt blow up after a few pulls' while you're at it.
Absolutely fab review, funny, very informative, and its made me think, maybe I could affford .......