Audi RS Q3 Sportback

The cabin is kept up-to-date with the latest “Racing Sport” models. Stylistically, this means it has Nappa leather seats, Alcantara-wrapped accents, and hard plastic surfaces with matte finishing. For detailing, there’s the usual RS embossing and honeycomb stitching - available in either red or blue.

The RS Q3 Sportback also comes with the latest tech from Audi. It has a 10.1-inch Virtual Cockpit and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment that connects with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The driver and front passenger are treated with sport seats for extra comfort and back support. Rear passengers get a long bench with three headrests. The bench can be tilted in 7 ways, moved to and fro by 150mm, or folded completely to increase the cargo space from 530 to 1,400 liters.

The Audi RS Q3 Sportback is about the same size as the RS Q3. It measures 4,507 mm long, 2,024 mm wide, and 1,557 mm tall. 

A frameless hexagon-shaped grille with a honeycomb pattern sits at the front. It is flanked by angular Matrix LED headlights, a 1984 Sport Quattro-inspired air vent, and three massive air intakes. These RS-specific elements take up the entire front end and give the Sportback an imposing stance.

Its side profile includes deep shoulder lines, 20-inch wheels, and flared wheel arches. To set it apart from its non-coupé sibling, it gets upsweeping rear windows and a sloping roof. The crossover completes its sporty look with a pair of angular taillights, a lip spoiler, a gloss black diffuser, and twin exhaust pipes at the rear.

The Quattro system provides excellent grip and allows it to handle turns with minimal body roll. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces. Built-in sport suspensions mostly keep the ride smooth and comfortable. However, the vehicle loses its composure on pothole-ridden roads.

Road noise can also be a problem on the Sportback. There’s a noticeable pause whenever you shift gears, especially if you use paddles to do so. The steering can also feel too light and cause you to understeer.

The SUV runs on a 2.5L five-cylinder turbo engine with 7-speed automatic transmission. It churns out a maximum of 400 hp and 480 Nm of torque. Power is sent across all four wheels thanks to the Quattro drive system.

The award-winning gas mill propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.5 seconds, enabling it to reach top speeds of up to 280 kmph. It has a combined fuel efficiency of about 11 kmpl.

The standard steel brakes are not only resistant to wear and tear. They do a good job of stopping the vehicle when needed.

For safety, Audi equipped the RS Q3 Sportback with basic safety and driver-assist technology such as autonomous emergency brakes and lane departure warnings. Advanced features such as adaptive cruise control are only available with an upgrade.

The Audi RS Q3 Sportback has the speed, agility, and overall practicality of an RS Q3, but with a sportier exterior for style-conscious buyers.

There’s more than enough room for your groceries, gym bag, work equipment, or the occasional heavy cargo. With rear seats up, you can accommodate co-workers, friends, or even a small family. All in all, it’s a decent car for city driving.