Maybe it's an age thing, but I've learned to accept that we all have opinions, and it's futile trying to cajole others into having the same views are yourself. Learn to accept differences of opinion, and also chill out. Getting wound up is a pointless exercise.
@veeeight is perfectly entitled to his views, and in the main I'm actually inclined to agree with him, he makes reasonably well argued posts, and doesn't retort to insults. Sure he is more active/vocal in defending his views than most, but if this forum just consisted of S3 fan boys it wouldn't be as much fun, or have a balanced view. He's wrong about the A45 though hahaha, it's a dull sounding, average looking, expensive 4 banger.
I always roll my eyes at the 'what do others think' posts, usually about colour etc. errrm pick the one you like, who gives a rats *** if someone else doesn't like it. I'm sure a lot of people will ridicule me, at 43, in my beany, in the winter, driving roof down in my bright red, girls car. Do you know what, I don't care, I'm happy
The thread question of whether the RS3 is worth the premium, is only a question you can answer yourself. Are you buying it outright? PCP? What's your driving needs? Do you track cars? How many miles do you do?
If I HAD to have a hot hatch, then for me it's likely I'd have an RS3. Purely for the noise. Thankfully I don't, and can look at all sorts, Boxsters, Caymans, Mustangs, the new M2 .. and for me, they are all preferable options. That's my opinion, I'm entitled to it and no you can't change it (and not just because I'm a stubborn *** lol)
You do have the luxury of speaking from an elevated position though, having made the leap out of a S3 to something more rewarding!
As @Pulp84 alluded to earlier, something that is missing for me, in a S3 or RS3, is the sheer sense of occasion when driving these 2 cars, which I'm sure, you're not missing when in your current drive!