Audi RS Q3 - official
First RS-branded Audi SUV confirmed with 310hp five-cylinder turbo
It'll be the eighth car to join the RS range, and the fourth RS model launched this year. Power will come from a version of Audi's 2.5-litre five-pot TFSI engine, although in the RS Q3 it's been detuned to 310hp, rather than the 340hp it's endowed with when fitted to the TT RS and RS3.
That peak power is delivered between 5,200 and 6,700rpm, while maximum torque of 310lb ft comes in a spread between 1,500 and 5,200rpm. The result is a 0-62 time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed that's electronically limited to 155mph.
It's been designed to be efficient, too – for the first time, Audi's fitted the five-pot with a stop-start system, and there's also a regulated oil pump that only supplies lubricant when it's needed. We'd hate to see the repair bill if it stops 'regulating' in 15 years' time, mind.
As you'd expect, there's also a three-mode adaptive dynamics system that alters exhaust note, steering feel and throttle pedal sharpness, as well as RS-specific sports suspension that lowers the car by 25mm. Visuals are dealt with by way of a chunkier bodykit and a smattering of gloss black highlights, and there's also a unique-to-the-RS Sepang Blue paint finish.
Audi is proudly pointing out that the RS Q3 is creating a “new performance class” - that is to say, the fast, compact SUV. And while BMW USA comes close to matching the RS's power levels with the 300hp X3 Xdrive35i - the closest thing out there - its performance doesn't quite tally. So it seems Audi has a point. Do we want one, though? Well, the jury's still out. We wouldn't mind comparing one with a quick Evoque, though. Hint, hint, Land Rover...
Update: We asked Audi why exactly the RS Q3 will have less power than the TT RS and the RS3, with which it shares an engine. Here's what they said:
"The ideal harmonisation of power and road performance is one of the primary goals of quattro GmbH for every RS model. Here, the focus is not on nominal values, but rather in the ideal configuration of the potential of the specific model. For this reason, the power limit for the RS Q3 was set at 310hp - the top value in the compact SUV segment. The acceleration, torque and top speed of the RS Q3 are all benchmark in the segment."
We'll leave you to draw your own conclusions!
I have plenty of time for the Quattro's, the RS and S ranges, but the regular vanilla diesel A1/A3/A4 cars seem like a careful exercise in style over substance to me. They're not even all that reliable or well made.
But I have to admit that I rather like this. Lots of performance, not too large, 4WD and a relatively high seating position. Should be a great cross-country tool on A and B roads, providing Audi have'nt made the mistake of giving it the same terrible unyielding ride that afflicts the RS4....
If they have'nt afflicted the car with a terrible ride, I would consider one of these.
I agree that Audi seem to be loosing their way - I really don't understand the need for an RS Q3, but presumably there is one! It just feels like RS brand dilution to me.
http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Content/Vehicles/20...
Makes what you said above invalid.
Whilst I don't agree too much with this small, fast SUV, I like my A1. It's extremely well built and is a lovely car to be in whether I'm doing a 456 mile day trip to Hull and back or driving back from Madrid in one hit.
Why do I like them? Probably because my dad has owned them all my lifetime. Brother's gone from Golf to Leon to 3 Series though!
There isn't really a need or a want for something like this in the UK, but overseas I can certainly see the appeal.
Trouble is Audi are stuck a little. They launch it here, then as pointed out it does dilute the RS brand, whereas if they don't launch it here then we are in uproar for not having a performance car!
Also, an RS with a single oval exhaust?
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