With Audi having unleashed the production 2019 Q3
this week, our attention has turned to the upcoming performance variants, the
“SQ3” and “RS Q3”. And this prototype filmed on the ‘Ring, is certainly hiding
some performance upgrades beneath its well-camouflaged skin. In fact, from the sounds of it,
we could be looking at the top-of-the-line member of the premium subcompact
SUV, the RS Q3, which will go head-to-head with the next Mercedes-AMG GLA 45.
Believed to be powered by the turbocharged 2.5-liter
five-cylinder engine of its hot hatch sibling, the RS3 Sportback, the Audi RS
Q3 could benefit from as much as 400 PS and 480 Nm of
torque. The 0-100 km/h acceleration could drop to around 4.5 seconds, and
top speed will probably be limited to 250 km/h, or 270 km/h.
Expect a series of chassis upgrades over the regular
Q3 models of the second generation in the case of the new Audi RS Q3, including
a stiffer suspension with specially-tuned electronic dampers and a lot bigger
brakes.
On the outside, the performance-oriented model will
flaunt a new grille and vented bumpers on both ends. Changes will be seen in
the cabin, too, where the RS Q3 will welcome model-specific sport seats,
instrument cluster and trim elements to set it apart from the rest of the Q3
models.
Those who might find the upcoming RS Q3 a bit too
extreme, or rather, too expensive, will be able to choose a lesser variant,
which will drop the ‘R’ from the naming scheme. The Audi SQ3, which is also
being developed alongside the rest of the family, will be powered by the S3
Sportback’s turbo’d 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, making some 310 PS and 380 Nm of torque. Both should drop into Audi
dealerships in the second or third quarter of next year.
