Audi RS3 vs BMW i3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Audi RS3 starts from $101,515 before on-road costs, while the BMW i3 opens at $109,900. That makes the Audi RS3 the more affordable entry point by $8,385.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $111,667 and $120,890 respectively.
The BMW i3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Audi RS3, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Audi RS3 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the BMW i3 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi RS3 stands out with Sonos 3D Premium audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the BMW i3. The BMW i3 counters with wireless charging, power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Audi RS3 uses a 5-cylinder petrol with direct fuel injection, turbocharging producing 294kW and 500Nm of torque, sent through a 7-speed s tronic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.
The BMW i3 responds with a Electric making 250kW and 430Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The Audi RS3 has the clear power advantage at 294kW vs 250kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RS3 is 4.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Audi RS3 measures 4,548mm long on a 2,630mm wheelbase, 161mm shorter than the BMW i3 at 4,709mm (2,851mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW i3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 321L in the Audi RS3 and 260L in the BMW i3, giving the Audi RS3 a 61L advantage.
For towing, the Audi RS3 leads with a 1,900kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 1,150kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m to 11.4m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RS3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i3). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi RS3 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW i3 if: You or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi RS3 takes 5 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Audi RS3 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Audi RS3 and BMW i3?
The Audi RS3 is the cheapest at $101,515 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW i3 by $8,385.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Audi RS3 uses the least fuel at 8.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Audi RS3 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Audi RS3 has the largest boot at 321L.
Which can tow the most?
The Audi RS3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,900kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Audi RS3 makes the most power at 294kW. The Audi RS3 is quickest to 100km/h in 3.8s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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