I'm not a fan of the new 8Y 22+ RS3s, they look weird to me. I also heard the interior quality is a step down compared to previous years (cost-cutting) and the ECU is pretty locked down like the G8x, same Bosch MG1 if I recall. Future tuning might be a challenge.
If you want to go fast right now, the 8V 2017-2020 RS3 is an excellent platform. You can go and build yourself a 1300WHP RS3 right now that runs low 8s if you wanted to with the insane aftermarket support it has. I'm not sure how long the aftermarket support will take to reach the same level on the G8x.
I currently have a 2018 RS3 with bolt-ons and a modified OEM/Hybrid TTE700 turbo that runs 9.96 @ 142mph, with a full interior on street tires. My favorite part of the car is the way it sounds (baby turbo Lamborghini V10) and the size/nimbleness. I also love the sleeper look and it flys way under the radar for those who don't know what an RS3 is. I don't track the car so this car checks all the boxes for me, it's been the best daily driver that I could ask for.
At one point in time, I was considering selling both my E92 M3 6MT and RS3 to consolidate into a single car, a G80 X-Drive. In preparation, I sold my M3, but when it came time to let go of my RS3 I just couldn't go through with it even though Carvana offered me more than what I paid for it. I drove a G80 M3 and was impressed but it never left a lasting impression on me, I guess the sound is a big part of driving enjoyment for me and the G8x sounded too similar to my F80. The RS3 makes some glorious noises just like my E9x M3s which hits me in all the right spots. Heck if I'm going to buy a fast car and not enjoy the way it sounds, might as well get a Tesla Plaid or wait for the new 4-cylinder C63 (which looks absolutely gorgeous btw)
Pics of my overpriced Golf with 1 extra cylinder.
