In today’s car market, New Honda Civic Type R affordability and performance rarely go hand-in-hand — especially with new vehicles pricing higher than ever. However, value-conscious car buyers may be in for a treat: a 2018 Audi RS3 can now be purchased for less than the cost of a brand-new Honda Civic Type R.
Yes, a used Audi performance sedan with 400 horsepower and Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system is now less expensive than the quintessential Honda hot hatch.
While You Care for Your Car, Care for Your Child’s Future Too 💖
A fun and educational book every parent should gift their kid.
Get Kiddy Store Fortune Now
Civic Type R: A New Price Tag for the People’s Hot Hatch?
For many years, the Honda Civic Type R has been the preferred vehicle for hot hatch enthusiasts. Since its 1997 launch, it has set the standard for front-wheel drive performance and is particularly well-known for its manual gearbox and track-day readiness.
But in 2025, the Civic Type R is no longer a bargain buy. With prices exceeding $50,000, the Type R is inching closer to premium territory. While still a thrilling drive, it now competes financially with used performance cars from luxury brands.
Enter the Audi RS3: Luxury, Speed, and Now… Affordable?
The 2018 Audi RS3 may be the best sleeper available. The RS3 was formerly priced at nearly $56,000, but it is already down to $30,000 on the used market, which is up to 40% less than MSRP.
A new Civic Type R costs more than $45,000, even for immaculate, low-mileage models.
Even clean, low-mileage examples hover around $45,000, still undercutting the cost of a new Civic Type R.
And performance? The RS3 comes with:
- A 2.5L turbocharged inline-five engine
- 394 horsepower
- 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- Audi’s Quattro AWD system
It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, making it a true rocket disguised as a small sedan
Specs Showdown: 2018 Audi RS3 vs 2025 Honda Civic Type R
| Feature | 2018 Audi RS3 | 2025 Honda Civic Type R |
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo I5 | 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Power | 394 hp | 315 hp |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Quattro) | FWD |
| Transmission | 7-speed Dual-Clutch Auto | 6-speed Manual |
| 0–60 mph | ~3.5 sec | ~5.4 sec |
| Price (as of 2025) | ~$30K–$45K (used) | ~$50K+ (new) |
Which One Should You Choose?
Depending on your values:
• Do you want a manual transmission, warranty protection, and the dependability of a new car? Choose the Type R Honda Civic.
• Desire AWD grip, premium materials, and raw power? The Audi RS3 is an obvious choice, particularly with today’s
The RS3 offers a level of refinement, engine character, and straight-line speed that is difficult to match, even though the Civic is a future classic in and of itself.
Final Thoughts
A used 2018 Audi RS3 is a strong substitute for the new Civic Type R if you’re looking for a fun performance vehicle in 2025. More power, more cylinders, greater grip, and a more.
More power, more cylinders, greater grip, and a more luxurious driving experience are all available for less money.
Also read: 2025’s Most Reliable Midsize Pickup Truck Will Surprise You