MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2019 Audi Rs3

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

1Recalls
5Complaints
1Investigations
ABOUT THE AUDI RS3

The Audi RS3 is a high-performance compact sedan slotting into the competitive sport sedan segment, aimed at enthusiasts who want explosive straight-line performance and premium German engineering in a relatively compact package. The 2019 model year represents the only year in our coverage window, making this a narrow but focused safety snapshot of one of Audi's most driver-focused four-door offerings.

VERDICT

The 2019 Audi Rs3 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally celebrate the RS3 for its turbocharged performance, all-wheel-drive grip, and premium interior quality, treating it as a standout in the compact performance sedan class. Most praise its driving dynamics and refinement, though some note that its focus leans heavily toward performance rather than practicality or everyday comfort.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

OverallNot rated
FrontalNot rated
SideNot rated
Rollover
Rollover risk 10.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13690

Index breakdown

Crash protection56/70
Avoidance tech3.5/10
Defect record19/20
Forward collision warning: NoLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER21V198000

Risk: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.

Reported 2021-03-22

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

5 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 3Unknown Or Other 1Back Over Prevention 1Fuel/Propulsion System 1Air Bags 1Power Train 1

Rivals in Sedan (2019)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 13690), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Audi Rs3 2019. Class rank 85 of 119 in Sedan 2019. Methodology · Disclosure