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Reviving the RS3: A Canadian Comeback
When Audi finally opened its doors to Canada, the RS3 was the first model to cross the border. The compact, five‑cylinder powerhouse had long been a favourite among enthusiasts, but the 2024 facelift brings a fresh look and a host of updates that keep the car relevant in a crowded performance‑car market.
Thomas and James from Throttle House filmed a sneak‑peek of the new RS3, noting that the car still
"It did 3.8 seconds to 62 mph." – ThomasThe quick acceleration is a reminder that the RS3 is still a pocket rocket, but the new updates aim to give it more than just raw speed.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The RS3’s 2.5‑liter five‑cylinder engine delivers 394 horsepower, a figure that has remained unchanged from the previous generation. What’s new is the way the power is delivered. Audi’s latest software tweaks reduce understeer and give the car a more balanced feel, especially in corners.
“It’s more drifty on corner entry,” Thomas explains, highlighting the car’s ability to send torque to the outside wheel when it wants to drift. The RS3’s torque‑split differential can send 100 % of the rear‑side torque to a single wheel, a feature that makes the car feel like a lightweight, engineered drift machine.
James adds,
"I think the firing order is 1 2 4 5 3." – JamesThe unique firing order contributes to the RS3’s distinctive exhaust note, a sound that many reviewers say is
"unique to this car." – JamesThe five‑cylinder layout also gives the RS3 a “half‑V10” feel, a nickname the hosts use affectionately.
Interior and Design Updates
Inside, the RS3 has received a more refined cabin. The new steering wheel features a flat bottom and top, a change that has sparked debate among fans. Audi calls the material “Dynamica,” a term that has been used for years to describe the brand’s Alcantara‑like upholstery.
“I love the sound this car makes,” James says, while Thomas notes that the new seats use dynamic inserts that look “wicked.” The interior also now includes a checkered flag button on the left side of the steering wheel, a small but fun touch that instantly shifts the car into a more aggressive mode.
However, not all changes were universally praised.
"I think the previous gen was better looking, especially the grill." – Thomaspoints out that the new front fascia feels more aggressive but less refined than its predecessor.
Competition and Daily Use
When asked why someone would choose the RS3 over a Golf R, the hosts point to the extra cylinder and the unique sound. “Speed, power, noise, and a fixed interior,” James says, “are the reasons you’d pick the RS3.” The Golf R, while cheaper by about $30,000, lacks the five‑cylinder character that many drivers crave.
Despite its performance credentials, the RS3 remains a practical daily driver. The cabin is spacious enough for a family, and the ride quality is “normal” even in the stiffest mode. The car can also break Nürburgring lap records when pushed into sport mode, proving that it can handle both the track and the street.
“It’s such an understated car,” Thomas muses. “It needs a flashy color to stand out, but it’s still a great daily.” The RS3’s new color palette includes Daytona gray, scarlet blue, and a progressive red, giving buyers a range of options that can make the car feel more personal.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Audi RS3 may not have radically changed its exterior, but the updates to its performance, interior, and software keep it competitive. Whether you’re a track enthusiast or a daily driver, the RS3 offers a unique blend of power, handling, and character that few other compact cars can match.
With its return to Canada and a refreshed look, the RS3 is poised to continue its legacy as a pocket rocket that doesn’t sacrifice personality for practicality.