New BMW M240i vs Audi RS3: verdict
Thrills meet daily usability in these upmarket four-wheel-drive rocketships. But should we be listening to the gospel according to Audi or BMW?...
Our verdict
Your financial advisor will no doubt implore you to choose the M240i, especially if you’re buying on PCP finance. It’s almost as fast as the RS3 and even plusher inside, yet it will cost you £204 less a month.
But buying a performance car isn’t all about value. If that were your top priority, you’d probably be considering a Skoda Scala. What’s more, the RS3 absolutely justifies its premium, with a corker of an engine and more capable, enjoyable handling. Small boot aside, it’s also really easy to live with, having room for four adults and a remarkably forgiving ride. And if you are able to buy outright, the RS3 will barely cost you any more cash in the long run, thanks to its glacial depreciation.
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1st - Audi RS3 Sportback
For Savage pace; entertaining handling; fabulous engine sound; better predicted resale values; better for rear passengers
Against Much more expensive to buy; lack of interior personalisation options; gearbox can be hesitant at times
Recommended options Adaptive suspension (£960)
For Fierce acceleration; fantastic interior and infotainment system; bigger boot
Against Not as good through corners; limited rear head room; disappointing Euro NCAP safety rating
Recommended options Adaptive suspension (£500)
What Car? rating 4 out of 5 stars
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Specifications: BMW M240i Coupé xDrive
Engine 6cyl, 2998cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 369bhp at 5500-6500rpm
Peak torque 369Ib ft at 1900-5000rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 3.9sec
30-70mph 3.4sec
Top speed 155mph
30-0mph 8.7m
70-0mph 45.0m
Noise at 30mph 62.2db
Noise at 70mph 67.1db
Kerb weight 1765kg
Tyre size (std) 225/40 R19 (f), 255/35 R19 (r)
Fuel tank 52 litres
CO2 emissions 186g/km
Specifications: Audi RS3 Sportback Carbon Black
Engine 5cyl, 2480cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 394bhp at 5600-7000rpm
Peak torque 368Ib ft at 2250-5600rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 3.7sec
30-70mph 3.5sec
Top speed 155mph*
30-0mph 8.6m
70-0mph 44.1m
Noise at 30mph 61.9db
Noise at 70mph 68.2db
Kerb weight 1570kg
Tyre size (std) 265/30 R19 (f), 245/35 R19 (r)
Fuel tank 55 litres
CO2 emissions 206g/km
*Part of Driver Assistance Pack
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Audi RS3 Sportback Launch Edition with Python Yellow metallic paint (£575)
BMW M240i Coupé with Thundernight metallic paint (£595), Technology Pack (£1250), Harman/Kardon sound system (£750), Comfort Pack (£500) and Aluminium Tetragon interior trim (£150)
