“Compact, yet holds 4 people comfortably. Fast and fun to drive. Easy to maneuver around town. The engine sounds are amazing in sport mode. Exhilarating experience using the launch mode. Good fit and finish. Typical Audi quality trim. Wish it had power seats.”
2020 Audi RS 3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
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.
About the 2020 Audi RS 3
8V A3-based second-generation RS 3 sedan, final U.S. model year before the next-generation RS 3 returned for 2022.
Audi positions the RS 3 as the small Audi Sport sedan for drivers who want serious speed in a compact, everyday-usable package. Its main draw is not just straight-line pace, but the distinctive character of the turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the secure feel of quattro all-wheel drive, and a premium cabin in a sedan that is easier to place on the road than larger performance cars. Against rivals, its biggest differentiator is that unusual engine sound and personality.
The standard RS 3 is a compact performance sedan built around a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, a quick-shifting seven-speed automatic, and quattro all-wheel drive. The Nardo Edition uses the same engine but adds a fixed sport suspension, sport exhaust, 174-mph top-speed calibration, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and navigation-enabled touchscreen system.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new Nardo Edition adds a sport exhaust and a 174-mph top-speed calibration. It uses the same 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine as the regular RS 3.
Styling
The limited-run Nardo Edition joins the lineup with unique trim details and a more distinctive cabin treatment.
Safety
Blind-spot sensors move from standard to optional equipment across the lineup.
Tech
Premium audio moves from optional to standard equipment. The Nardo Edition also bundles a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and navigation with handwriting input, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Structural
The Nardo Edition replaces the regular model's adaptive suspension with a fixed sport suspension for a more focused setup.
2020 Audi RS 3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd w/Dual-Clutch & S tronic | Automatic, 7-Spd w/Dual-Clutch & S tronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 394 hp | 394 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10 cu-ft | 10 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.1 in | 35.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is new on the 2020 Audi RS 3?
The limited-run Nardo Edition is the main addition for 2020. The regular RS 3 receives no meaningful mechanical update, though premium audio becomes standard and blind-spot sensors move from standard to optional equipment.
What is the 2020 Audi RS 3 Nardo Edition?
The Nardo Edition is a limited U.S. special edition with the regular RS 3's turbocharged five-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive. It bundles a fixed sport suspension, sport exhaust, 174-mph top-speed calibration, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, navigation, and unique trim details.
Is the 2020 RS 3 Nardo Edition more powerful than the regular RS 3?
No, the Nardo Edition is not presented as a more powerful RS 3. It uses the same 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine and focuses instead on a fixed sport suspension, sport exhaust, higher top-speed calibration, and extra cockpit technology.
How does the 2020 Audi RS 3 compare with the 2019 model?
The 2020 RS 3 is largely a carryover from 2019, with the Nardo Edition as the headline addition. Premium audio becomes standard, blind-spot sensors become optional, and the regular model's core engine, transmission, and all-wheel-drive setup remain unchanged.
Does the 2020 RS 3 Nardo Edition have adaptive suspension?
No, the Nardo Edition uses a fixed sport suspension. The regular 2020 RS 3 has an adaptive suspension with RS-tuned magnetic dampers.
2020 Audi RS 3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Audi RS 3.
4.8
2020 Audi RS 3
(10 reviews)
“If you know what an rs3 is and did the research my advice is simple, buy the product and try to wipe the smile off your face.”
“There are technology limitations in the current model year and they should wait until the next updates.”