Both are all-wheel-drive, high-performance sedans with six-speed manual gearboxes. The new Subaru WRX STI and the Audi S3 sedan both have a bit under 300 horsepower and rally racing heritage. Each one can also be ordered with a six-speed manual gearbox. Obviously the S3 is considered a premium car, while the WRX STI isn't quite as refined. A large rear wing should be the first clue. But still, the S3 is anything but boring, and the question is whether it's really worth the extra cash?

The Subie doesn't have the Audi's high-quality material, but that may not be an issue for everyone. For others, well, they simply want premium. So which is the better AWD performance small sedan? Auto Express gets behind the wheel to find out.