As one of the country’s principal Audi RS specialists, as well being expert moderators on the Audi RS Owners Club forum, the Audi RS3 8Y page and Audi RS6GT owners club page, Automotive Addiction has unrivalled experience with all generations of the RS3 platform. Having sold over 700 examples to date, this makes us ideally positioned to guide you through this complex process, providing a dive deep into the details of both models – including the iconic five-cylinder engine, exhaust note, tuning potential, styling, driving dynamics, and common issues – so you can pick the right RS3 for your garage.

To watch our video highlighting the differences between the models, click the video below or to read a detailed breakdown of the various factory options for these cars, visit our blog post here.

The Facelift 8V (2017–2018): Enter the DAZA

The facelifted RS3, known internally as the 8V.2, arrived in 2017. The new DAZA five-cylinder engine transformed the car. Audi ditched the first generation car’s iron engine block for an aluminium one, shaving around 26kg off the front end. It added dual injection (direct and port – an upgrade designed to reduce carbon build-up on valves), an integrated exhaust manifold, and a new electronic wastegate, making the engine both lighter and far more efficient.

The swap to a larger turbocharger meant power jumped to 400PS, but more importantly, torque came in earlier and harder, and the five-cylinder engine was more responsive everywhere in the rev range. This combination of more power, less weight and a reconfigured Mechatronix software for the Haldex system (which directs more power to the rear) made the 8V.2 feel like a completely different car—sharper, more agile, with improved steering and with a more charismatic exhaust note, especially when paired with the optional RS Sports Exhaust.

For tuners, the DAZA is a dream. A simple Stage 1 map with supporting hardware can push power comfortably past 460–500bhp. Hybrid turbos take it into the 600–700bhp range, and with forged builds and upgraded fueling, 1,000bhp RS3s are now a reality. Add to this its improved reliability and reduced valve carbon build-up (thanks to port injection), and it’s easy to see why the DAZA-equipped RS3 has become the holy grail among buyers.

This extra performance potential comes free from added issues with the DAZA only really suffering from the same common problems as the iron-block cars, namely sticking injectors and noisy transfer box and differential bearings.

The OPF Era (2019–2020): DNWA and the GPF Effect

In 2019, stricter emissions rules forced Audi to add a gasoline particulate filter (GPF/OPF) to the RS3. These late facelift cars, often coded DNWA, look almost identical to the DAZA but come with a more muted exhaust and slightly different ECU calibration to meet WLTP standards.

On paper, power remained at 400PS, and performance was unchanged. But to the ears of many enthusiasts, these OPF filter cars lacked the drama of their pre-filtered siblings. The crackles and pops were dialled back, the idle quieter, and the five-cylinder howl less raw.

That said, these cars are no less capable. With careful tuning, they can still match DAZA levels of performance – but the exhaust system becomes more complex to modify legally, and OPF filter deletes can lead to MOT headaches in the UK. For those wanting a stealthier, newer RS3 with the same mechanical strength, the OPF cars make a lot of sense – especially the fully-loaded Sport Edition cars – though they’ll always sit in the DAZA’s shadow for sound and tuner-friendliness, meaning prices for equivalent cars can be slightly lower than DAZA examples, even if the DNWA is slightly newer.

Exhaust Character: The RS3’s Soul

One of the biggest talking points with every RS3 is the exhaust note.

The DAZA facelift is the definitive model to experience that iconic five-pot burble. Loud, rich, and full of overrun theatrics that define the RS3 experience.

The DNWA cars, with their restrictive OPF filters, dampened it, keeping the five-cylinder character but stripping back the drama.

If sound is a priority, the DAZA stands clear as the best of the breed.

Common Issues: What Buyers Should Watch For

While the RS3 is generally robust, there are key checks to make:

• Haldex service (8V): Pumps clog if fluid changes are skipped.
• Gearbox (DQ500): Strong, but must be serviced on schedule.
• Ignition coils/plugs: Misfires under load usually trace back here.
• Cooling system: Older water pumps and thermostats can leak; check for replacements.
• Engine mounts: Torque-heavy tuned cars often chew through them.

Extracting Its Full Potential: Tuning The RS3

DAZA 8V.2: The DAZA lightweight aluminium five-cylinder engine may not be as strong as the iron-block it replaced, but it has great tuning potential due to the larger turbo and increased fuelling allowing power gains to be much easier won. An MRC Tuning Stage 1 tune, combined with a Forge turbo elbow will unleash around 490PS. Stage 2 requires the elbow, plus a front mount intercooler and a downpipe with sports cats but can increase grunt to 530PS. Above this is stage 3 where things get serious. Joining the mods above would be a TT700 turbo, 980cc injectors, and additional supporting mods, but you can comfortably expect between 570-600bhp+

DWNA 8V.2: The OPF filters in the DWNA cars mean power is slightly restricted, with a Forge turbo elbow and Stage 1 remap only making 460PS. But add a downpipe with secondary cat delete and you’re looking nearer 490PS. Once you get past this point, the potential power output becomes very similar to DAZA cars when tuned.

So, Which RS3 Should You Buy?

It depends on your priorities.

Best base for tuning: The 8V.2 DAZA. Light, strong, charismatic, and huge tuning potential. The one enthusiasts fight over.

Best balance of newness and subtlety: The OPF 8V.2. Same punch, quieter manners, newer build dates.

Whichever you choose, the RS3 remains one of the most complete performance cars on sale—a supercar heart in a practical, everyday body. Few cars blend speed, usability, and heritage as well as this Audi.

Find Your RS3 at Automotive Addiction

At Automotive Addiction, we specialise in sourcing, preparing, and presenting the very best examples of the Audi RS3 across all generations – including the highly sought-after DAZA 8V.2 and the latest 8Y models. Every car is handpicked, painstakingly inspected, fully detailed in our in-house studio, and presented to the highest standard.

If you’re ready to experience the furious five-cylinder performance and exhaust note that the RS3 is renowned for, browse our current RS3 stock here or call our team to discuss securing your car with a deposit. Your perfect hot hatch is waiting!

We Want Your Audi RS3!

If you’ve got an awesome RS3 that you’re thinking of selling, then we want to know about it. We’re always looking for meticulously maintained RS3 models to bolster our sales stock and will pay top money for pristine examples that can make the grade. If you have something you think we may consider, please get in touch or click here to fill out our online form.

The post Audi RS3 Buyer’s Guide: DAZA vs DNWA appeared first on Automotive Addiction.

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.

Watch our in-depth guide into the RS3 power-plants:

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.
• 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.

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

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

CLICK HERE TO VIEW

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