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.

Our Specialist RS3 Stock!

Get ready for an adrenaline-fuelled driving experience like no other with the Audi RS3…

Take a look

Audi RS3 8Y Facelift – New Features, Enhanced Power

Available for the first time ever in Daytona Gray Matt finish, this RS3 upgrade is a nod to the legendary models that came before it whilst designing itself as a top contender in the Audi Sport collection. At a top speed of 180 MPH, the classic 5-cylinder 2.5TFSi engine (400 PS) uses its signature 1-2-5-4-3 firing sequence to produce a powerful note, scored by the twin RS exhaust system with variable flap control. Furthermore, proving its capabilities (and for many surpassing expectations) the 2025 RS3 bested its predecessor by 7.3 seconds during a lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife!

Improved precession of the chassis control systems (partnered with the new standard tires surrounding the 10-spoke, motorsport design rims) makes way for higher cornering speeds that are complemented by the luxurious feel of the new flat-top and flat-bottom steering wheel – which has subsequently caused a dispute amongst the community! Additionally, evolved oversteer allows the driver to achieve those sharp turns without the need for increased load requirement.

Audi has also given other interior components a redesign. Carbon features, sporty displays, and RS Sport seats: all elements are crafted for performance. Initially, these carbon-backed bucket seats were not part of the UK market offering due to equipment differences in regional configurations. However, as part of the facelift’s updates, the UK models now include these seats as a £2,000 optional upgrade, praised for their combination of support, comfort, and aesthetics with honeycomb Alcantara trim. These seats feature carbon fiber rear panels and enhanced bolstering for improved support, catering to enthusiasts looking for a sportier experience. This upgrade complements the RS3’s dynamic appeal and can be selected during configuration of the vehicle.

Technological Innovation in the Audi RS3 8Y Facelift

Upon further exploration, we can see that the centre console has also undergone minor changes, along with the illuminated door cards. The shift from Bang & Olufsen sound systems to Sonos ones was also a topic of conversation between Audi fantatics way back in 2021-2022 when fans first started to notice this alteration. Some say that the Sonos systems lack presence and frequency response, others claim that the Bang & Olufsen speakers have muddy mid-range. But where do you stand on the matter?

Among the latest technological advancements from Audi is the new Technology Pack Pro. Available as an optional extra on the standard RS3 or Carbon Black, you can now enhance your RS3 Sportback with Matrix LED Highlights; Adaptive Cruise with Emergency Assist; Panoramic Sunroof; Comfort Key with SAFELOCK; and Electrically Adjustable Front Seats with Memory Function.

Exterior Evolution of the RS3

The composition of the exterior features are among the more prominent changes that Audi have made to the new RS3 model. With the considerably wider front bumper and side blades that have been pushed further apart, you may notice that the front end of the car appears to take inspiration from the RS6, whereas the previous model was closer to the old RS4. The addition of three openings above the front splitter also contributes to a wider appearance, giving the Audi RS3 8Y Facelift a more invasive stance.

One of the first things we noticed here at Automotive Addiction, along with many others, is the evident absence of the front RS3 badge on the now more angular, diamond-design grille. Much like the wheels, the rear end of the car also features motorsport easter eggs and shouts much louder than that of the previous model. The bold RS diffuser holds a red reflector in the centre and oval tailpipe trims of the RS exhaust system on its sides.

With the former RS3 models, owners had to choose between that sleek, carbon fibre exterior (Carbon Black) or the latest Audi technology (Vorsprung). Now, thanks to the introduction of the Carbon Vorsprung, loyal RS3 enthusiasts can get the best of both worlds. The RS details of this 2025 model include the side blades, rear diffuser insert, front spoiler, and the grille; on the Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung trims, this lustrous exterior styling is in Carbon and Black Gloss. The Carbon Vorsprung trim also features the Matrix LED Headlights which exhibit personalisable light signatures.

The Audi RS3 8Y Facelift Configuration

With the new RS3 configuration recently going live on the Audi website, no doubt pursuers of the Facelift model have began placing their orders. This newly-introduced configuration allows you to customise major aspects of your RS3 “8Y.5”, including the trim level: enabling you to choose the version that best reflects your preferred styling, driving experience, and equipment level. Other customisable elements include the body paint finish, seat upholstery, stitching, materials, and the technological features of your RS3.
Unlike the pre-facelift RS3, Audi’s 2025 iteration does not give buyers the option to add Y-Spoke Wheels, exclusive colour paintwork, or Carbon Ceramic Brakes to their configuration (not as of yet anyway, so let’s keep our fingers crossed!).

Standard vs. Carbon Black Trim

With a price difference of £4,650, what additional benefits does the Carbon Black specification hold over the standard RS3’s head?

10-Cross-Spoke Matt Grey Alloy Wheels: Darkened Matrix LED Headlights with Dynamic Light Sequencing and Dynamic Indicator • LED Rear Lights with Dynamic Light Design and Dynamic Indicators • Carbon Door Mirror Housing • RS Exterior Features in Carbon and Gloss Black • Carb Roof Spoiler • Engine Compartment Cover with Carbon Trim • Interior Inlay in Carbon Atlas Structure

Carbon Black vs. Carbon Vorsprung Trim

One rung up the ladder from Carbon Black is the all-new Carbon Vorsprung trim: combing track-inspired, carbon fibre exterior styling with the latest innovative technology that Audi has to offer. Having been priced £4,490 above Carbon Black, what extra benefits will Facelift seekers be enjoying in 2025 if they choose this specification?

Exterior Mirrors: Electrically Adjustable, Heated and Folding, Automatically Dimming on Both Sides, and with Memory Function • Comfort Key with SAFELOCK • Advances Key • Electrically Adjustable Front Sears with Memory Function for the Driver’s Seat and Door Mirrors • Adaptive Cruise Assist with Emergency Assist • Proactive Passenger Protection System for Front, Sides and Rear • Lange Change Assistant with Exit Warning System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert • Drive and Park Assist Package Pro and Protection and Warning System, Package Plus • Adaptive Suspension with Audi Drive Select • Top Speed Increase to 174 mph • RS-Specific Sport Suspension • 10-Cross-Spoke Black Metallic Alloy Wheels • Panoramic Glass Sunroof • Power Front Seats with Memory Function for the Driver Seat

New VS Previous Model Comparison

So what do you think? Have Audi developed a successful upgrade of the RS3, or do you prefer the previous?

The post 2025 Audi RS3 8Y Facelift Model New Features: A First Look appeared first on Automotive Addiction.