How many Audi RS3 are there on UK roads?

Approximately 8,548 Audi RS3 are licensed in the UK, according to DfT VEH0124 vehicle-parc data (2025).

Audi RS3 8Y Facelift — Wheel Fitment & Specs

By Torque, AIWheelTech vehicle & fitment specialist · 1996–present

TL;DR — The Audi RS3 8Y Facelift (1996–present) uses a 5x112 bolt pattern, 57.1 mm centre bore, M14x1.5 bolts torqued to ~120 Nm. It accepts ~8J–9J wheels at ET20–ET35.

Overview

The Audi RS3 is a high-performance variant of the A3 Sportback, introduced in 2011 as part of the fourth generation. It features a powerful 5-cylinder turbocharged engine and advanced drivetrain technology to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining Audi's reputation for engineering excellence. The RS3 was designed to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a compact yet potent vehicle with distinctive styling cues that set it apart from standard A3 models.

Wheel fitment

Bolt pattern (PCD)	5x112
Centre bore	57.1 mm
Bolt / thread	M14x1.5 (bolts)
Wheel-bolt torque	120 Nm
Seat type	radius
Factory setup	square
TPMS	indirect

Aftermarket wheel sizes — read per position:

Position	Width	Offset
Front	8J–9J	ET20–ET35

As a rule, each extra 1J of width wants roughly +8–10 ET to keep the wheel tucked. The exact offset and any spacer are confirmed by the fit-check.

Browse wheels that fit a Audi RS3 →Get them fitted (UK)

UK popularity & demand

~8,548 Audi RS3 licensed on UK roads — top 15% of models by volume.

Based on DfT VEH0124 vehicle-parc data (2025), there are approximately 8,548 Audi RS3 on UK roads, placing it in the top 15% of car models by volume across our fitment database. That makes its wheel fitment a high-demand size to keep in stock — one reason we track its exact spec here.

Source: DfT/DVLA licensed-vehicle statistics (VEH0124), matched to the AIWheelTech fitment database.

Engines & drivetrain

Variant	Engine	Fuel	Power	Drive
1.8 20vT (S3)	1.781L I4 turbo	petrol	225 hp	quattro
1.8 20vT	1.781L I4 turbo	petrol	150 hp	FWD\|AWD
1.9 8v TDI	1.896L I4 turbo	diesel	130 hp	FWD\|AWD
1.6 8v	1.595L I4	petrol	102 hp	FWD\|AWD

Performance

Variant	Power	0–62 mph	Top speed
1.6 8v	102 hp	10.9 s	189 mph
1.8 20vT	150 hp	8.2 s	217 mph
1.8 20vT (S3)	225 hp	6.6 s	243 mph
1.9 8v TDI	130 hp	9.2 s	205 mph

Dimensions

Length	4152 mm
Width	1735 mm
Height	1423 mm
Wheelbase	2513 mm
Kerb weight	1150 kg

Body styles & production

Body styles	Sportback
Produced	1996–present

Trim levels

Sportback

History & notable variants

The RS3 made its debut as part of the 2011 model year, marking the first time Audi offered an RS variant in the A3 line. It underwent minor updates during its production run to enhance performance and refine handling characteristics, solidifying its status as a benchmark for high-performance compact cars.

Reliability & owner notes

Pros: Powerful 5-cylinder engine; Advanced all-wheel drive system; Distinctive styling
Cons: Limited production run; High cost relative to standard A3 models