Unveiled as a concept at the 2012 Auto China show in Shanghai, presented in final form on February 20th 2013, the RS Q3 makes its world debut at the 2013 Geneva autoshow.

The engine is variant of the unit used in the  TT RS et TT RS Plus coupes, as well as the RS3 Sportback hatchback. In this version, the 2.5L inline 5 cylinder develops 310 hp and a peak torque of 420 Nm over the 1500 – 5200 rpm rev range. The compact SUV (4.41m in length for a weight of 1730 kg) offers remarkable performance, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in only 5.5 seconds.

The 7 gear S-tronic twin-clutch gearbox comes as standard equipment, as well as 19″ rims (20″ are an option). Brakes have been upgraded to cope with performance, with drilled, wave design discs of 365 mm at the front helping to reduce unsprung weight and 8 piston calipers. The body sits 25mm lower in comparison with the base Q3. The radiator grille adopts the trademark honeycomb design of the RS series, same treatment at the rear with a large oval tailpipe. Inside, sports seats and the RS steering wheel with flat rim are standard equipment as well.

Picture gallery

Links

Forum topic – Audi Articles – Geneva 2013 coverage – the list of tests – read also: