Audi’s first ever high-performance crossover, the RS Q3, comes to Geneva to show what that Ingolstadt sporty division can achieve with a small SUV.
Under the hood, the German engineers fitted a 2.5 liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine – same unit as found in the TT RS and RS3 models. The turbocharged powerplant produces 310 horsepower between 5,200 and 6,700 rpm, and 309 lb-ft of torque (420 Nm) between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm, sent to the iconic quattro all-wheel drive system via a 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission.
Being quite heavy at 3,800 pounds, the Audi RS Q3 runs from o to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h.
Design wise, the RS Q3 stands out in the crowd with exaggerated air vents and aggressive design cues. A roof spoiler and roof rails in matte aluminum give the car a sporty look.
Inside we find plenty of performance-minded parts like a flat-bottomed steering wheel, upgraded gauges and sport seats. The MMI and driver information system displays welcome the driver with the RS logo.
No word on pricing yet nor whether BMW will ever offer an X3 M model to compete in this space.
