Audi RS 3 - best hot hatchbacks
The Audi RS 3 is the most powerful hot hatch in the business, unleashing a whopping 395bhp
When it comes to sheer power, almost nothing in the hot hatch sector gets close to the Audi RS 3. Updated in 2017, the RS 3’s 2.5-litre turbocharged engine delivers a mighty 395bhp and 480Nm of torque.
That translates into a 0-62mph time of 4.1 seconds, and with enough road the RS 3 will top out at 155mph, or 174mph with the limiter removed.
What’s most amazing though is that all this performance comes wrapped up in a car that is eminently practical. The RS 3 is designed with everyday use in mind, as attested by the five-seat, five-door set-up. A boot capacity of 335-litres is a more than useful, too.
If the RS 3 is lacking anywhere, the price tag is certainly a sticking point. An on the road price of £45,705 will make lots of potential suitors look elsewhere, given the value to be found among other contenders.
Top 10 best hot hatchbacks
- 1. Honda Civic Type R
- 2. Ford Fiesta ST
- 3. Renault Megane RS
- 4. MINI Cooper S
- 5. Hyundai i30 N
- 6. Volkswagen Golf GTI
- 7. SEAT Leon Cupra
- 8. Audi RS 3
- 9. BMW M140i
- 10. Skoda Octavia vRS
