In one fell swoop, Audi has unveiled the new RS Q3
and RS Q3 Sportback. Starting under the hood, the crossovers are powered by a turbocharged
2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that produces 395 hp and 480 Nm of torque. It is backed up by a seven-speed S tronic
transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system.
This setup enables the models to accelerate from
0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 250 km/h. Drivers looking to go even faster will be able to order an
option that increases the limit to 280 km/h.
The performance features don’t stop there
as the crossovers have been equipped with a sport-tuned suspension that reduces
the ride height by 10 mm. Elsewhere, engineers installed a revised
steering system and a high-performance braking system. The latter features six-piston calipers which
grab onto ventilated and perforated steel discs that measure 375
mm front and 12.2 inches (310 mm) rear.
Buyers looking to up the ante can order an optional
ceramic braking system which features newly developed monoblock aluminum
calipers and ceramic brake discs.
They’re a touch larger up front at 15 inches (380 mm), but the rear remain
12.2 inch (310 mm) steel discs. Speaking of options, customers can order an RS sport suspension plus
with Dynamic Chassis Control. It
features active dampers that respond to current conditions within a matter of
milliseconds.
On the styling front, the crossovers have a
prominent Singleframe that features gloss black honeycomb inserts. The models also sport an aggressive front
bumper with large air intakes, angular accents and “boomerang-shaped blades.”
Moving further back, there’s extended fender flares
and 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels. Buyers
will also find a unique rear spoiler and a massive dual exhaust system with
oval-shaped tips. Lastly, the crossovers
have an RS-specific bumper with an integrated diffuser that features horizontal
blades in either gloss black or matte aluminum.
The special styling continues in the cabin as
drivers will sit behind a flat-bottomed steering wheel with new paddle
shifters. Other highlights include
illuminated door sill plates, high-gloss black accents and leather/Alcantara
seats with RS embossing.
An assortment of options will be available including
Nappa leather seats with contrast stitching and a honeycomb insert. Customers can also choose between aluminum
race, anthracite, black, carbon or piano finish trim. In Europe, the RS Q3 and RS Q3
Sportback will go up for order in October and arrive at dealerships late this
year. German pricing starts at € 63,500
for the RS Q3, while the Sportback begins at € 65,000.
