Should you buy one?

The Audi RS 3 has a larger-than-life character, not least due to its aggressive styling but also thanks to its charismatic five-cylinder engine. It’s as fast as you’d expect, and as grippy too given its all-wheel-drive system and wide tyres. However, it’s also very engaging and agile.

That’s more of a surprise given that some fast Audis in recent years have felt a little numb. That’s not the case here, and the new rear Torque Splitter and sophisticated chassis control electronics play a big part in the RS 3’s newfound nimbleness.

We’re yet to drive the new RS 3 with regular steel brakes and non-adaptive suspension. Based on our initial launch encounter, the RS Dynamic Pack feels well worth investing in for its smoother, more controlled suspension and lighter, more powerful brakes. It is, however, a pricey option, starting from £5,000 at launch.

The car as a whole is pricey – the previous RS 3 was priced from £47k while the new car begins above £50k. However, given the usual inflation from one generation to the next, and the sophisticated new chassis control, it almost feels worth it – or as worth it as dropping 50 grand on a compact car can.

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