More potent RS Q3

Due to arrive in Australia by the end of this year, the RS Q3 is that latest RS model to receive the ‘performance’ treatment, giving the already potent compact SUV even greater power output and refined equipment.

Although the RS designation is already synonymous with high-performance motoring, these new models actually wear the ‘performance’ name and take that sporty dynamic to even greater heights. The RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback were the first two of the RS family to be released with the new ‘performance’ moniker and now the compact SUV RS Q3 is set to follow their lead.

The new RS Q3 performance has received significant modification of its five-cylinder 2.5-litre TFSI engine, giving the compact SUV 270kW of power – 20kW more than the current RS Q3 – and a massive 465Nm of torque available between 1,650 and 5,550rpm. This translates to performance figures of 0 to 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 270km/h.

In keeping with Audi’s philosophy of increased output with greater efficiency, fuel consumption on the new performance model is just 8.6 litres per 100km with only 203g of CO2 per kilometre. Driving dynamics though have been sharpened with the seven-speed S tronic transmission retuned for even more dynamic performance, with power delivered to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive via a hydraulically actuated, electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. 

Power is distributed automatically between the front and rear axles as needed, and even selectively to each wheel thanks to the networked Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC). In addition, the handling controller can be deactivated to access a retuned sport mode.

The distinctive look of the RS Q3 performance is very much in keeping with the RS family, but with its own distinctive design highlights. Large air inlets on the front end are as visually impressive as they are important to improved airflow, while various external components finished in a matt titanium-look – such as the Singleframe grille, exterior mirror housings and roof rails – are exclusive to the new top model. 

The gloss black honeycomb grille gives the RS Q3 performance a distinctly aggressive look, accentuated by the RS-specific, 20-inch wheels. These are a five twin-spoke V design available in the same matt titanium-look finish used elsewhere on the car, the red brake callipers with the RS logos another RennSport staple.

Inside the RS Q3 performance, boasts an exclusive new combination that includes dial instruments with grey faces, white dials and red needles. The sport seats are finished in black and blue with the optional RS performance design package at no extra cost. Additional elements, such as the RS sport leather steering wheel, the selector lever gaiter, the centre armrest and the floor mats feature blue contrast stitching. While inlays in carbon twill blue, with a blue thread woven into the carbon material add to the vehicle’s exclusivity.

The RS Q3 performance will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with the new, high-performance compact SUV arriving Down Under later in 2016. 

Exact Australian specification and pricing will be confirmed prior to launch.