2019 Audi RS 3: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2019 Audi RS 3

The 2019 Audi RS 3 is a light-update year led by more standard convenience and cabin equipment, including wireless phone charging hardware and extra power outlets. Its engine, transmission, and all-wheel-drive system carry over unchanged.

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About the 2019 Audi RS 3

8V RS 3 sedan generation, third U.S. model year.

Audi positions the RS 3 as a compact sports sedan with real everyday usefulness, not a stripped weekend toy. The 2019 brochure leans on Audi Sport engineering, the brand's unusual five-cylinder engine heritage, and a four-door body that still works in daily life. In practice, the RS 3 is the smallest Audi sedan turned into an all-weather performance car: huge straight-line speed, standard AWD grip, and a premium cabin in a compact footprint.

Audi positioned the 2019 RS 3 as a compact four-door that blends serious performance with everyday usability. Its signature hardware is a 394-hp turbocharged five-cylinder engine, a quick-shifting seven-speed automatic, and standard all-wheel drive. Heated leather sport seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert add comfort and everyday convenience.

What changed, by category

Tech
Wireless phone charging hardware, rear-seat USB charging, and a trunk 12V outlet became standard. Navigation and premium audio moved from standard equipment to optional equipment.
Styling
Stitched door-armrest and knee-pad trim became standard, along with titanium-finish 19-inch wheels.
Structural
The fixed sport suspension became a standalone option instead of being tied to a package. The underlying chassis was not redesigned.

2019 Audi RS 3 specs and features by trim

Feature
2019 Audi RS 3Base0 in stock
Engine5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Dual-Clutch & S tronic
DrivetrainAWD
Fuel TypeGas
MPG City19 mpg
MPG Highway28 mpg
Horsepower394 hp
Torque354 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo10 cu-ft
Rear Legroom35.1 in
Seats5
Doors4
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Blindspot Sensors
Active Lane Keep Assistance
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Headlights
Panorama Moon Roof
Rear Spoiler
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start

How the 2020 Audi RS 3 compares

The biggest change for the 2020 Audi RS 3 is the addition of the limited-run Nardo Edition. The regular RS 3 carries over without a meaningful mechanical update, making this a trim-change year rather than a broader refresh.

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2019 Audi RS 3?

The biggest change is expanded standard cabin equipment. Wireless phone charging hardware, stitched door and knee-pad trim, rear-seat USB charging, and a trunk 12V outlet became standard for 2019.

Did the 2019 Audi RS 3 get a new engine?

No, the 2019 RS 3 keeps the same turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, rated at 394 hp and 354 lb-ft. Its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and standard all-wheel drive also carry over.

How is the 2019 Audi RS 3 different from the 2018 model?

The 2019 RS 3 adds several standard cabin conveniences and separates the fixed sport suspension into its own option. Navigation and premium audio also changed from standard to optional equipment.

Is the 2019 Audi RS 3 a redesign?

No, the 2019 RS 3 is not a redesign. It remains part of the same 8V sedan generation and receives a light equipment and option-packaging update.

Did the suspension change for the 2019 Audi RS 3?

The underlying suspension and chassis were not redesigned. The change was in packaging: the fixed sport suspension became a standalone option rather than being tied to a package.

2019 Audi RS 3 Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2019 Audi RS 3.

4.5
2019 Audi RS 3
(18 reviews)
5 stars (11)
4 stars (5)
3 stars (2)
2 stars (0)
1 star (0)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

No rating

“Its as close to a P0R 911S as your are going to get with QAWD, 4 doors and a comfortable quiet road ride. Need low end turbo added, heavier steering and stiffer suspension to get closer. Less flash styling would also help. But it is less than 1/2 the price.”

PHPat H.
2019 Audi RS 3 Sedan Quattro
No rating

“Inimitable 5 cylinder engine with amazing exhaust note. Incredibly fast and powerful, beautiful to behold inside and out.”

AFAlan F.
2019 Audi RS 3 Sedan Quattro

“Be prepared for high performance with incredible acceleration, precisely engineered.”

SRSam R.
2019 Audi RS 3 Sedan Quattro