What is it?
The Audi RS Q3 - largely as we remember it. Despite receiving more attention than most in a facelift of the Audi Q3 line-up, fundamentally this remains the same model that landed in 2012.
That car was fast; this one, inevitably, is slightly faster and marginally more efficient with it. That’s because in the process of upgrading its characterful 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine to Euro 6 standard, Audi has found an additional 30bhp - bringing total output to 335bhp.
The concurrent improvement in 0-62mph is around half a second; a reduction helped along by shortened shift times on the standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Also uprated is the on-demand four-wheel drive system, which now gets a fifth generation Haldex hydraulic clutch plate for torque splitting duties.
Elsewhere, the differences between old and new are purely cosmetic, and rather subtle. The grille has been redesigned with an awkward looking surround, while the updated head and tail lights are a feature shared with the rest of the range.
There’s a smattering of customisation available, and 20-inch alloy wheels are standard - as is a powered tailgate. Adaptive dampers remain on the options list, but featured on our test car.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Not sure...
If Audi's weren't so
Common Audi
Good to see you’d prefer the exclusivity of a Ford!