Automotive Review

The new Audi RS Q3*, the dynamic spearhead of the Q3 model series, is now even more distinctive and powerful. Its 2.5 TFSI engine satisfies the Euro 6 standard and produces 250 kW (340 hp) and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque, the latter between 1,600 and 5,300 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) takes just 4.8 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.3 mph). Average fuel consumption is 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers (28.0 US mpg), corresponding to 198 g CO2 per kilometer (318.7 g/km). The start stop system and the regulated oil pump contribute to this good value.

The Audi RS Q3* was updated concurrent with the Q3*. The compact performance SUV is now hotter and more dynamic than ever. Its 2.5 liter, five-cylinder engine now produces 250 kW (340 hp) and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque. It also now satisfies the Euro 6 standard. The top model in the series now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). An RS exhaust system with a switchable flap adds even more volume to the unmistakable sound of the five-cylinder engine.

The seven-speed S tronic, which transfers the power to the quattro drivetrain via a new hydraulic multi-plate clutch (5th generation), has also been refined for even faster gear changes. The lower gears are closely spaced for sporty response while the seventh gear is tall to save fuel.

The chassis of the Audi RS Q3 is also impressive. 19-inch wheels are standard; 20-inch wheels are optionally available. Thanks to the wave design, the large brake discs on the front axle are now one kilogram (2.2 lb) lighter. They are gripped by eight-piston calipers. The standard RS sport suspension is also available with optional adaptive dampers. The steering is tuned for sporty driving, and the Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard. Numerous design details illustrate the special status of the dynamic top-of-the-line model. On the exterior, the distinctive bumpers are particularly eye-catching. The color black dominates the interior. The sport seats are optionally available in Fine Nappa leather with diamond quilting; red needles sweep across gray dials in the instrument cluster; and the driver information system offers a special RS menu with lap timer and displays for both oil temperature and boost pressure.

The base price in Germany for the generously appointed new top model is 56,600 euros. LED headlights, among other features, are standard. Deliveries of the RS Q3 will begin in the first quarter of 2015.

Audi is bringing the performance philosophy to the compact SUV segment with the RS Q3. Its engine, whose 2,480 cc displacement results from a stroke of 82.5 millimeters (3.2 in) and a bore of 92.8 millimeters (3.7 in), is a modern classic. An international jury of journalists has named the five-cylinder unit International Engine of the Year in its class five years in a row since 2010. With its ample pulling power, free-revving character and inimitable sound, the 2.5 TFSI is guaranteed to cause goose bumps. At higher loads and rpm, a flap in the exhaust system opens to provide an even more voluminous sound.

The five-cylinder turbo’s power flows to a modified seven-speed S tronic. Audi used optimized fine-tuning to further improve the seven-speed S tronic transmission’s shift times. The driver can let the dual-clutch transmission do all the work in modes D and S, or can shift gears himself. Shift paddles on the steering wheel are standard. The lower gears are closely spaced for sporty response while the seventh gear is tall to save fuel. A launch control system manages full-throttle acceleration from a standing start.

The primary component of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is an updated multi-plate clutch. The hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled unit is mounted in front of the rear axle. Its electronic controller brings stability, traction and driving enjoyment into perfect harmony.

The updated Audi RS Q3 offers impressively dynamic and safe handling. The taut RS sport suspension lowers the body by 20 millimeters (0.8 in) versus the Q3. Audi also offers the RS sport suspension with optional damper control. The adaptive dampers can be set to one of three modes using the standard Audi drive select system. The system also influences the accelerator, steering, S tronic, exhaust flap and the adaptive light (optional). The Audi RS Q3 comes standard in Germany with 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option. The front brake discs, which measure 365 millimeters (14.4 in) in diameter, have a weight-saving wave design and are gripped by black eight-piston calipers bearing RS logos. The electronic stabilization control offers a Sport mode and can also be deactivated entirely.

Sharp visual accents demonstrate the potential of the new Audi RS Q3. The Singleframe grille – with a matt aluminum-look frame and high-gloss black honeycomb grille – has been redesigned, and a quattro logo adorns the air intake in the front bumper. The aluminum roof rails, long RS roof spoiler, updated LED taillights and xenon headlights, the modified rear bumper and the long, elliptical exhaust tailpipe complete the dynamic look. Four appearance packages, two each in matt aluminum-look and glossy black, provide for further customization. Sepang Blue pearl effect is available as an exclusive exterior color.

The dynamic line is echoed in the car’s interior. The sport seats with embossed RS Q3 logos are covered in a combination of black Alcantara and leather, with Fine Nappa leather and Fine Nappa leather with diamond quilting available as options. High-gloss black, bright red and subtle aluminum applications set additional accents. The inlays come standard in black piano lacquer, and optionally in aluminum or carbon.

The instrument cluster has gray dials with white numbers and red needles; the multifunction steering wheel is flattened at the bottom. The color DIS display shows the boost pressure, oil temperature and a lap timer in a separate RS menu. The Audi RS Q3 also comes standard with the parking system plus, MMI radio, Audi sound system, sport seats and deluxe automatic air conditioning. The base price in Germany for the generously appointed new top model is 56,600 euros. LED headlights, among other features, are standard. Deliveries of the RS Q3 will begin in the first quarter of 2015.