New RS3
What’s up guys? last weekend, I took delivery of my first ever Audi, a 2026 RS3. I traded in my 2024 Golf R, which I’d had for a little more than 2 and a half years. I‘ve had a bunch of BMWs, MINIs, VWs, and Porsches (and Ducatis 😎) over the last 20 years, but never an Audi. Seemed like a good time to try one, since I’ve always been interested in the brand generally and the RS3 specifically.
This car will be my daily driver going forward - my fun car is a 718 Spyder RS. 😋 We are DINK, so some of the practical considerations a lot of folks have to deal with aren’t present for me and the wifey.
I really like it so far - definitely has more grunt than the Golf R and I can appreciate the longer and lower slung feeling as well. The Golf R was a nice little car, but I was often frustrated with going through so many menus to change the driving modes or A/C controls. Those adjustments are so quick in the Porsche, but felt laborious in the Golf by comparison. The RS3 has a nice blend of physical buttons and touchscreen, and I feel like I can get going so much faster. It’s a big improvement. The car also seems more stable, especially at speed, where the Golf R would sometimes feel a bit unsettled in comparison. I’m also a fan of the seats, which are reasonably supportive while also being more comfortable. The car also feels really well made, as the doors are chunky and have a great heft to them. The matrix LED lights are also the best headlights I’ve ever had in a car, and the touches with unlocking / locking are also a lot of fun. It’s such a great all arounder.
I did like the Golf R’s steering feel a bit better - it’s awfully light in the RS3, in comparison - and the physical aspects of the steering wheel itself were better too. The RS3 wheel is thin - modern ///M cars have steering wheels that are way too thick, but this is a bit thin for me. The Golf R‘s was a nice middle ground. The RS3 is also a bit quiet for my linking - I need more of that amazing 5 pot’s noise - so I‘ll be looking into options in the coming weeks and months.
I am also a bit confused with the RS badging - some examples in the car reflect the new design, some are the old design. Seems a bit lazy on Audi’s part - just pick one and go with it. I think I like the old style better, which might be another thing I end up changing.
But overall, happy with the purchase. I can see why this segment has such a dedicated following. 😋
