RS3 Sports hatch...why does Audi deprive U.S. buyers?

[luv2sleep]

Without having actually test driven the RS3, I can confidently say that I want one BUT....only in a sportback.
I've been looking for a fun sporty hot hatch to be used as a DD and none of them interests me, even the AMG A45. I've always wanted a hatchback with a bit of luxury and lots power. The Golf R and the AMG A45 is as close as it gets but they really don't do it for me. Okay, call me an Audi fanboy, whatever. For the life of me, why doesn't Audi offer this in the U.S.A ?!?!?!?! The RS3 sportback would literally blow every hot hatch out of the waters, IMHO! Ok, I'm done venting. Have to step away from the key pad and have a drink. Thoughts anyone?

[Pilfer]

Have you driven a Golf R? It's a great car, it needs an AWE exhaust to wake it up.

[luv2sleep]

Have you driven a Golf R? It's a great car, it needs an AWE exhaust to wake it up.

I have. It's a peppy car and drives nice for sure but not too fond of the interior and the exterior. Hey, nice 997.2 btw! Waiting for the 992 TT/TTS myself.

[Pilfer]

I have. It's a peppy car and drives nice for sure but not too fond of the interior and the exterior. Hey, nice 997.2 btw! Waiting for the 992 TT/TTS myself.

Thank you, and damn lol. I'm going to hold onto mine until I can get a GT3.

[luv2sleep]

Thank you, and damn lol. I'm going to hold onto mine until I can get a GT3.

I'll give it another year or so for Audi to come to their senses and bring the RS3 Sportback to the states. If not, I may just get myself a 911 GTS as my daily and forgo the TT/TTS until the 992 comes out and the hype cools off.
I can see Audi not brining the RS6 to the states but the RS3 sportback makes total sense. What do I know?! I'm just an average consumer, I guess.

[Seinsmeld13]

Audi doesn't bring the hatch as Americans don't like them. They bring over what they can sell. Your title should say North America as Canadians buy cars as well. I love hatchbacks. My GTI is a great car and has close to 300,000 km on it. I'd buy another one however I won't as they are now made in Mexico. Anyway........

[luv2sleep]

Audi doesn't bring the hatch as Americans don't like them. They bring over what they can sell. Your title should say North America as Canadians buy cars as well. I love hatchbacks. My GTI is a great car and has close to 300,000 km on it. I'd buy another one however I won't as they are now made in Mexico. Anyway........

Sorry, I forgot to mention our brothers up north, eh! I think you are wrong about us 'mericans, brotha. If MB can sell the AMG A45 here in North America, why can't Audi. The RS3 sportback is better than the Merc, IMHO. There's a whole new generation looking to move on from VW, Honda, Ford, etc. hot hothatchs to something with a bit more class and luxury while staying with a hot hatch. The RS3 sportback fits the bill. Again, I'm not in marketing so I'm not the one to make these calls. It's fun to debate.

[Pilfer]

Sorry, I forgot to mention our brothers up north, eh! I think you are wrong about us 'mericans, brotha. If MB can sell the AMG A45 here in North America, why can't Audi. The RS3 sportback is better than the Merc, IMHO. There's a whole new generation looking to move on from VW, Honda, Ford, etc. hot hothatchs to something with a bit more class and luxury while staying with a hot hatch. The RS3 sportback fits the bill. Again, I'm not in marketing so I'm not the one to make these calls. It's fun to debate.

They don't sell the A45, it's the GLA45 AMG. It's a crossover that looks like a hatchback :/.

I'd buy an RS3 hatch, after driving the Golf R over the last year I love it. It's going to see high mileage too, may end up just keeping it around forever as I've grown so accustomed to owning it.

[luv2sleep]

They don't sell the A45, it's the GLA45 AMG. It's a crossover that looks like a hatchback :/.

I'd buy an RS3 hatch, after driving the Golf R over the last year I love it. It's going to see high mileage too, may end up just keeping it around forever as I've grown so accustomed to owning it.

I'll get it right...yes, AMG GLA 45 SUV. If MB can come close to Audi's interior and tweak the engine a bit, the AMG GLA 45 can be an option. The Golf R should last a while for sure.

[Seinsmeld13]

Sorry, I forgot to mention our brothers up north, eh! I think you are wrong about us 'mericans, brotha. If MB can sell the AMG A45 here in North America, why can't Audi. The RS3 sportback is better than the Merc, IMHO. There's a whole new generation looking to move on from VW, Honda, Ford, etc. hot hothatchs to something with a bit more class and luxury while staying with a hot hatch. The RS3 sportback fits the bill. Again, I'm not in marketing so I'm not the one to make these calls. It's fun to debate.

Don't get me wrong. I'm very happy to have the US as our neighbour. We get what you get which is a great thing. I'd love the RS3 as a sportback. I'm not in marketing either. If your fuel was priced like our is we see less of the SUVs. I wish our province would disallow trucks and SUVs in the left lane as they do in some of the states. If that were to occur we'd see less of them on the road. We can't have everything.

[brad65ford]

For many years i'd dreamed of being about to purchase a rs4 or rs6 Avant though that dream hasn't come true yet. Believe its a cruel joke Audi's playing on us lol

[luv2sleep]

For many years i'd dreamed of being about to purchase a rs4 or rs6 Avant though that dream hasn't come true yet. Believe its a cruel joke Audi's playing on us lol

My conspiracy theory is that the Lambo and Ferrari owners are lobbying against them and don't want to be viewed through a rear view mirror of a couple of "station wagon" beasts. The V8TT RS sleepers love to have exotics for lunch. Long live the station wagon beasts! If the RS7 didn't have such a hunchback, I'd be driving one right now.

[brad65ford]

My conspiracy theory is that the Lambo and Ferrari owners are lobbying against them and don't want to be viewed through a rear view mirror of a couple of "station wagon" beasts. The V8TT RS sleepers love to have exotics for lunch. Long live the station wagon beasts! If the RS7 didn't have such a hunchback, I'd be driving one right now.

this guy gets it ;)

[michael818]

You're cross shopping a $55K RS3 with a $130K GTS and a $200k 911TTS?

I'll give it another year or so for Audi to come to their senses and bring the RS3 Sportback to the states. If not, I may just get myself a 911 GTS as my daily and forgo the TT/TTS until the 992 comes out and the hype cools off.
I can see Audi not brining the RS6 to the states but the RS3 sportback makes total sense. What do I know?! I'm just an average consumer, I guess.

[RudyH]

I'll get it right...yes, AMG GLA 45 SUV. If MB can come close to Audi's interior and tweak the engine a bit, the AMG GLA 45 can be an option. The Golf R should last a while for sure.

Ya, but once you sit in the GLA 45 AMG, and realize what you are getting for how much, you would be heading straight into the Golf R. The Golf R is a better car in every aspect

I agree, the RS3 sportback would have me in a RS3 immediately.

I wonder if they actually sell the Q3? I feel like there are less sales then the A3 sportback had. I have seen maybe 1-2 of them on the road. It might be more? Looks so generic being an appliance, that it might blend in more

[S3owner]

I think AOA and Audi of Canada are being TOO pessimistic about selling hatch-backs. Well, the RS models are already "made-to-order", so they only lose some time and effort on adding a new car to their line-up IF it did not sell. I'm curious to know if AOA loses money for any other reason IF RS hatches don't sell here. Ideas?

[S3owner]

Also, from what I read in the North American forums, I believe most of the current RS3 owners could've bought the sport back instead of the sedan!

[michael818]

People on the forums are a small subset of Audi buyers. If Audi thought the sportback would sell in North America the sportback would be here. Don't fool yourself into thinking that the small proportion of posters on any forum are indicative of broader market trends.

Also, from what I read in the North American forums, I believe most of the current RS3 owners could've bought the sport back instead of the sedan!

[Pilfer]

I see Q3's all the time in San Francisco.

I also drove a GLA non AMG and preferred it massively compared to the CLA. The GLA is ridiculously overpriced, it's almost laughable to be honest. I've seen maybe 1 in the last year. I see several Golf R's driving around San Francisco and various other Golf's constantly.

[lalalaprise]

You're cross shopping a $55K RS3 with a $130K GTS and a $200k 911TTS?

Must be nice lol :)

[luv2sleep]

You're cross shopping a $55K RS3 with a $130K GTS and a $200k 911TTS?

First off, I'm not made of money. I'm just saving up for my dream car like many of us on these forums. I'm not cross shopping between a 911TT/TTS and a hot hatch. I'm looking for a fun DD to drive and my weekend car will be a 911, hopefully. If I bought a 911GTS, I can probably feel okay driving it to work but if I can help it, I'd rather not park a $100k+ vehicle in a employee parking lot. Clear as mud?

[Pilfer]

First off, I'm not made of money. I'm just saving up for my dream car like many of us on these forums. I'm not cross shopping between a 911TT/TTS and a hot hatch. I'm looking for a fun DD to drive and my weekend car will be a 911, hopefully. If I bought a 911GTS, I can probably feel okay driving it to work but if I can help it, I'd rather not park a $100k+ vehicle in a employee parking lot. Clear as mud?

Plus, a GTS is not the most comfortable car. My 997.2 is a C4GTS and it's rough as a daily, I completely get your decision tree lol, hence the Mk7 R.

[Seinsmeld13]

I think AOA and Audi of Canada are being TOO pessimistic about selling hatch-backs. Well, the RS models are already "made-to-order", so they only lose some time and effort on adding a new car to their line-up IF it did not sell. I'm curious to know if AOA loses money for any other reason IF RS hatches don't sell here. Ideas?

Each and every car they sell thankfully has to go through a series of tests such as crash tests. Add a convertible, ya okay, don't forget the crash test. If I'm wrong I'm sure I'll be told. Bring it on.

[luv2sleep]

Since the sportback already exists, Audi should let buyers in N. America order them (order only with some sort of buyer commitment)if they are so afraid of not making a profit. I guess they want to give away business to MB.

[iliveoncaffiene]

Plus, a GTS is not the most comfortable car. My 997.2 is a C4GTS and it's rough as a daily, I completely get your decision tree lol, hence the Mk7 R.

My dumb-ass just chose to get a 718 Cayman as a DD in NE Ohio (). The suspension is somewhat stiff, but not unbearable...
I'm just waiting for the snow to get here and see how it survives with 265 width snow tires
Oh, and it was completely worth it. Porsche is just another level of awesome (and I smile every time I walk up to it to drive home)

I park it in the employee parking lot, and while I'm not in a poor neighborhood, the cars around here are more "Camry / pickup / suv" ('average' cars) and I get stared at a lot.

Different body RS3 = new crash test certification requirements = more $$. If it's not worth it, they're not going to bring it.... end of story.

[Pilfer]

My dumb-ass just chose to get a 718 Cayman as a DD in NE Ohio (). The suspension is somewhat stiff, but not unbearable...
I'm just waiting for the snow to get here and see how it survives with 265 width snow tires
Oh, and it was completely worth it. Porsche is just another level of awesome (and I smile every time I walk up to it to drive home)

I park it in the employee parking lot, and while I'm not in a poor neighborhood, the cars around here are more "Camry / pickup / suv" ('average' cars) and I get stared at a lot.

Different body RS3 = new crash test certification requirements = more $$. If it's not worth it, they're not going to bring it.... end of story.

I guess if you think about it, most people who buy a Golf R are not going to spend 60k or whatever on an Audi hatch. I would've but only because Ive lost interest in sedans. I'd prefer to own either a wagon or a hatch as my daily driver with a 911 for fun. Or I may just buy a CPO Alfa giulia quadrifoglio in a few years if they're not all moth balled by then lol.

[luv2sleep]

My dumb-ass just chose to get a 718 Cayman as a DD in NE Ohio (). The suspension is somewhat stiff, but not unbearable...
I'm just waiting for the snow to get here and see how it survives with 265 width snow tires
Oh, and it was completely worth it. Porsche is just another level of awesome (and I smile every time I walk up to it to drive home)

I park it in the employee parking lot, and while I'm not in a poor neighborhood, the cars around here are more "Camry / pickup / suv" ('average' cars) and I get stared at a lot.

Different body RS3 = new crash test certification requirements = more $$. If it's not worth it, they're not going to bring it.... end of story.

You've just inspired me to buy a 911 GTS as a DD, when the time comes.

[Seinsmeld13]

My dumb-ass just chose to get a 718 Cayman as a DD in NE Ohio (). The suspension is somewhat stiff, but not unbearable...
I'm just waiting for the snow to get here and see how it survives with 265 width snow tires
Oh, and it was completely worth it. Porsche is just another level of awesome (and I smile every time I walk up to it to drive home)

I park it in the employee parking lot, and while I'm not in a poor neighborhood, the cars around here are more "Camry / pickup / suv" ('average' cars) and I get stared at a lot.

Different body RS3 = new crash test certification requirements = more $$. If it's not worth it, they're not going to bring it.... end of story.

When I go out on calls I park my car down the street and around the corner from the house I'm going to. I'd rather not let the customer know what I am driving. When they see me getting out of a nice car I tell them it's my wife's car and she's a doctor. That usually shuts them up. Anyway.

[zoomzoom!]

Without having actually test driven the RS3, I can confidently say that I want one BUT....only in a sportback.
I've been looking for a fun sporty hot hatch to be used as a DD and none of them interests me, even the AMG A45. I've always wanted a hatchback with a bit of luxury and lots power. The Golf R and the AMG A45 is as close as it gets but they really don't do it for me. Okay, call me an Audi fanboy, whatever. For the life of me, why doesn't Audi offer this in the U.S.A ?!?!?!?! The RS3 sportback would literally blow every hot hatch out of the waters, IMHO! Ok, I'm done venting. Have to step away from the key pad and have a drink. Thoughts anyone?

Completely agree. I'm so frustrated that I'm *probably* leaving Audi entirely. I realize that I'm likely in the minority, but what I want right now is an RS convertible, which no longer exists (in the US) along the entire RS model line. My next choice after that would be an RS hatch...also not available. My desired options are, in order:

1. TT RS Roadster
2. RS5 Cabrio
3. RS3 Hatch

Bringing up the rear would be:

RS4/6 Avant

Right now I've been watching Autotrader and Cars.com for the "perfect" Porsche Boxster GTS....but having some trouble finding that unicorn (mix of options). Being in an A6 currently, I might even consider a V8 S6, but these cars are beginning to look dated, both in interior and from the tech options offered. With the EU nations falling under stringent "global warming" (bullshit) emissions constraints, not many of the engine options for the new cars are appealing. I know Audi doesnt have much of a choice here, but its resulting in me looking elsewhere (like a Mercedes C63 S convertible). As others have stated, Audi just doesnt seem to care all that much about the US enthusiast market. Granted, we purchase fewer cars than the vanilla/cookie-cutter market, but the enthusiast "scene" is an important driver/part of the brand's footprint.

I'd suggest you let Audi of America know your thoughts.

Additionally, there's an Audi of America representative right here in these forums...you might want to leave feedback there, too. If more of us share our thoughts, MAYBE it will begin to have an effect on at least what models they are willing to certify for the US. <example>

I've been a huge Audi proponent for years...even had comments from the sales rep at a car show that "I could be a salesman" when I was discussing options/praising the brand with another show attendee. I've been responsible for getting several people either getting into the VAG family, or at least giving it a serious look. I hate that the rest of the world has far more options than we do in the states, and that my 15 year love affair is coming to an end.

[luv2sleep]

Completely agree. I'm so frustrated that I'm *probably* leaving Audi entirely. I realize that I'm likely in the minority, but what I want right now is an RS convertible, which no longer exists (in the US) along the entire RS model line. My next choice after that would be an RS hatch...also not available. My desired options are, in order:

1. TT RS Roadster
2. RS5 Cabrio
3. RS3 Hatch

Bringing up the rear would be:

RS4/6 Avant

Right now I've been watching Autotrader and Cars.com for the "perfect" Porsche Boxster GTS....but having some trouble finding that unicorn (mix of options). Being in an A6 currently, I might even consider a V8 S6, but these cars are beginning to look dated, both in interior and from the tech options offered. With the EU nations falling under stringent "global warming" (bullshit) emissions constraints, not many of the engine options for the new cars are appealing. I know Audi doesnt have much of a choice here, but its resulting in me looking elsewhere (like a Mercedes C63 S convertible). As others have stated, Audi just doesnt seem to care all that much about the US enthusiast market. Granted, we purchase fewer cars than the vanilla/cookie-cutter market, but the enthusiast "scene" is an important driver/part of the brand's footprint.

I'd suggest you let Audi of America know your thoughts.

Additionally, there's an Audi of America representative right here in these forums...you might want to leave feedback there, too. If more of us share our thoughts, MAYBE it will begin to have an effect on at least what models they are willing to certify for the US.

I've been a huge Audi proponent for years...even had comments from the sales rep at a car show that "I could be a salesman" when I was discussing options/praising the brand with another show attendee. I've been responsible for getting several people either getting into the VAG family, or at least giving it a serious look. I hate that the rest of the world has far more options than we do in the states, and that my 15 year love affair is coming to an end.

My thoughts exactly! If Audi doesn't want to bring these cars over to N. America then maybe they can let us special order them. I'm on my third Audi and I've loved them all but I'm getting tired of their nonsense and small mindedness. My S6 will most likely be the last Audi I own until things change in the near future. MB is definitely making a come back with their AMG vehicles. The pendulum never stays still and it appears that it is swinging towards MB. Damn shame.
Speaking of Porsche, I'm seriously considering buying a 911 GTS. I wanted a sporty compact with utility (hot hatch) to be used a my DD/airport car and thought that the RS3 Sportback fit the bill. Though the RS3 sedan is a wickedly fast/fun car, I never liked the looks of the A3 body style. The sportback version looks better and proportional, IMHO. With Audi's limited choices, I'm now looking at other brands. The AMG GLA 45 is looking really good about now!