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Audi A3 RS3 Sportback (2011-2012) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by Simon McBride Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 31 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

The claimed combined economy is 31mpg but you’ll be lucky to get anywhere close to that because it’s just too tempting to put your foot down. Audi dealers have a reputation for being expensive but they do look after their customers.

With emissions of 212g/km you’ll want to keep the RS3 well away from your friends at Greenpeace. However, the RS3 is best in class because the BMW 1M Coupe emits 224g/km while the Mercedes C63 AMG emits 280g/km of CO2.

This is the first Audi RS3 but we expect it to be pretty much bulletproof. The Audi A3 has performed well over the years and Audi has a good reputation for building solid and reliable cars. However, keeping to the servicing intervals indicated by the onboard computer is essential.