The Q3 is Audi's impressive offering to the compact SUV segment, and with the RS Q3 the firm merges off-road styling and supermini convenience with the appeal of rapid performance.
To create the vehicle, Audi beefed up its A3 hatchback with a raised ride position and rugged design cues which are seen from every angle. A large front grille remains but with a sporty honeycomb mesh that's also found either side on the gaping air intakes. A tidy fold streaks along the car's waistline to the stylish tailgate, where a single oval exhaust pipe protrudes from the rear diffuser. RS badging at the front and back lets admirers know the model's true identity, with the same distinctive emblem added to the RS braking system positioned behind 20-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is just as sophisticated as the exterior, as it brings together Piano Black inlays, black cloth headlining, aluminium-look pedals and branded door sills. In front of your heated sports seat is a motorsport-inspired flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel finished with contrast stitching and gear shift panels, while passengers can stretch out into the generous head and legroom. For all you could need when on the road, there's a 356-litre boot that increases to 1,261 litres when the rear bench is folded away.
Beyond the exhilarating driving dynamic the RS Q3 delivers plenty more to entertain and engage you when on the road. As standard there's an Audi Music Interface with iPod®, iPhone and USB connectivity, which links up to the ten-speaker sound system for crisp audio delivery. The Bluetooth® interface allows you to take calls when on the move, and built-in satellite navigation makes reaching even the furthest destination straightforward. Behind the wheel is a 3.5-inch TFT colour display as part of the Driver's Infotainment System (DIS). With a single glance at the screen you can keep track of trip details, check the outside temperature or follow navigation prompts to stay completely informed during every stage of your trip.
Leading your adventures is the RS Q3's 2.5-litre TFSI quattro engine, tuned to produce 335bhp and 450Nm of torque. The unit couples with an advanced seven-speed S tronic gearbox for fluid power delivery, and the two combine to complete the 0-60mph sprint in approximately 4.8 seconds. At the same time a pleasingly high 32.8mpg combined is retuned, meaning the compact SUV is the frugal alternative to many others in the class.
Another trait the vehicle shares with the full-size SUVs it's based upon is safety. Audi's active technologies work to prevent accidents from occurring, and in the RS Q3 they include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) and an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL). Audi parking system plus helps you into the tightest spaces using acoustic and visual warnings of obstacles, and throughout the cabin there are strategically placed airbags which deploy should an unlikely collision occur.
The superb RS Q3 is waiting to be test driven from John Clark Audi in Aberdeen or Dundee, where you can also speak to an expert adviser about more of the car's features. Get in touch with the team today for more from this potent compact SUV.
