- the new rs version of the audi q3 crossover is here, and it has big power and aggressive looks.
- the turbocharged inline-five engine makes 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
- now that the q3 has sprouted a sportback variant with a more steeply raked roofline, that body style is also available with the rs treatment.
the hottest version of audi’s smallest suv is back, and it’s even stronger than before. the new rs q3 is once again powered by the awesome turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine found in the tt rs and rs3, and it now makes 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque—59 hp and 23 lb-ft more than the previous q3.
now available in both standard and sportback forms, the rs-ified small crossover looks about as menacing as you’d expect given its performance potential. there are plenty of extra air intakes, along with larger wheels and tires, flared wheel arches, and aggressive-looking dual exhaust tips in the rear. it’s also available in a few striking colors, including the searing kylami green you see here.
wheels up to 21 inches are available, and ceramic brakes are optional. a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sends the power to all four wheels. audi claims a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of up to 174 mph.
unfortunately, like the previous rs q3, the new model won’t be making its way to the u.s. market anytime soon. audi will be bringing additional rs models to the u.s., including the upcoming rs q8 suv, but it has decided that the rs q3 is too small to make waves in america.
