Audi RS3 8V DAZA Engine: What Makes The DAZA Powerplant So Special

Spencer Abell

There’s a reason the Audi RS3 DAZA engine has reached near-mythical status among Audi RS finatics. It’s raw, unapologetic, and utterly addictive. As Audi RS Specialists and proud experts within the Audi RS Owners Club, having supplied over 700 RS examples since 2015—we know what makes an RS3 truly special. And this one? It’s in a league of its own.

This RS3 8V is no ordinary hatch. It’s a DAZA-powered machine that proudly echoes the sound of a time before GPF filters muted the RS spirit. Louder, more visceral, and dripping in genuine RS heritage, the DAZA engine is the last of its kind.

This 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder turbocharged masterpiece is more than just a powerplant—it’s a direct descendant of Audi’s rally-bred legacy, echoing the legendary 5-pot of the Group B Quattro. Producing an unmistakable warble that’s instantly recognisable.

audi rs3 grey for sale

2018 Audi RS3 8V Sportback Quattro S-Tronic Nardo Grey | TTU Stage 2: 520PS

DAZA Engine | 0 Launches Since New | RS Interior Design Package

What sets the DAZA apart?

  • Pre-GPF Purity: Introduced before the petrol particulate filter (GPF) regulations neutered exhaust notes in 2019, the DAZA delivers raw, aggressive acoustics that later models simply can’t match especially when paired with the RS Sports Exhaust.
  • Strong, Forged Internals: Built with longevity and tuning in mind, the DAZA’s forged components handle power upgrades with ease, making it a favourite for reliable Stage 1, 2, and even hybrid turbo builds.
  • Iron-Block Strength: Unlike the later ‘DNWA’ engine, the DAZA retains a cast-iron block, which is widely regarded by tuners and builders as stronger and more robust under heavy stress.
  • Turbocharged Character: With a broad torque band and almost no lag, the DAZA pulls hard from low revs and just keeps going, giving that addictive push that’s made it a cult classic.

Combined with Audi’s S-tronic gearbox and quattro all-wheel-drive system, the result is a car that’s as at home tearing up B-roads as it is putting down lap times or dominating on the autobahn. And this example we have for sale doesn’t just deliver the performance, it’s backed by a superb ownership history, an exceptional factory spec, and over £11,000 in modifications.

View our meticulous detailing & preparation video on this DAZA Stage 2 Audi RS3 Sportback:

Mileage, Provenance & Perfection

Having only covered 33,990 verified miles, and showing zero launches on the launch counter (yes, zero!), this RS3 is one of the cleanest, most enthusiast-owned examples you’ll find. First sold by us in 2018, it’s remained within our Automotive Addiction network for its entire life. We’ve had the pleasure of supplying it to each of its RS-obsessed keepers, maintaining full control of its care and history.

Every service has been completed by Audi Specialists, strictly within manufacturer guidelines. It comes with both Audi keys and the full confidence of being maintained and prepared to our exacting standards.

Spec’d to Impress – £9,200 in Factory Options

This RS3 is loaded with factory extras, including:

  • RS Interior Design Package: Red contrast stitching, Alcantara knee pads, and RS branding throughout.
  • Driver Assistance Pack: Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Lane Assist, and Pre-Sense.
  • Audi Magnetic Ride Control: Giving you three distinct suspension settings.
  • RS Sports Exhaust: The crown jewel of the DAZA—deeper, throatier, and untouched by later GPF restrictions.
  • Comfort & Sound Pack: Bang & Olufsen, Reversing Camera, Keyless Entry.

And the extras keep coming: Supersports seats, gloss black styling, privacy glass, folding mirrors, red calipers, and more.

£11,615 in Tasteful, High-Quality Modifications & Enhancements

This RS3 doesn’t just sound and look the part—it moves like a supercar-chasing missile. Thanks to a TTU Stage 2 ECU & TCU tune, it now produces a monstrous 520PS, all channelled through Audi’s legendary quattro system.

Complimented by a Revo Carbon Series Intake, Milltek V2 Downpipe, and Forge Motorsport Intercooler, performance and reliability are perfectly balanced. Wrapped in Xpel Self-Healing PPF from new, the car’s finish is pristine, while OZ Leggera wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, and KW HAS suspension keep it composed and razor sharp on any road.

Inside, a retrimmed Alcantara steering wheel with functional RS buttons brings the experience even closer to race-inspired perfection.

‘Our Difference’ – Signature Preparation & Detailing

Before sale, this RS3 has undergone our signature £1,200 preparation process. This includes extensive detailing by our in-house professionals with over a decade of experience, ensuring every inch—from the undercarriage to the glass and interior—is factory-fresh.

If you’re looking for a DAZA RS3 to own, whether for investment, enjoyment, or pure enthusiast bragging rights then this is it! Please view its advert on our website or contact us directly to discuss more.

audi rs3 grey for sale

2018 Audi RS3 8V Sportback Quattro S-Tronic Nardo Grey | TTU Stage 2: 520PS

DAZA Engine | 0 Launches Since New | RS Interior Design Package

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