The Audi RS Q3 Sportback is a fast SUV with a distinctive five-cylinder petrol engine and a lovely interior. The lower, lighter hatchback RS 3 will be even more fun to drive, mind you.A couple of things help the Audi RS Q3 Sportback stand out amongst performance SUVs – its sharp looks and that characterful five-cylinder engine. It just sounds better than the rest.
This latest addition to Audi Sport’s growing stable of RS models is also one part of a dual-pronged attack on the small performance SUV market. While the RS Q3 should appease those wanting a little extra headroom for rear passengers, the Sportback earns extra style points with its sloping rear end. The Sportback delivers the kind of assured handling we associate with the RS range, letting you make rapid point-to-point progress while remaining predictable at all times, if lacking in true driver engagement. The progressive steering rack doesn’t give much sense of what the front tyres are doing through corners, and there’s little playfulness to be found from the rear end when pushed. On the smoothest roads and the optional adaptive dampers set to their most comfortable, the Sportback is just about relaxed enough, but still jostles on rougher surfaces. Dynamic mode is a lot more brittle, picking up even the smallest of abrasions. Ride refinement is merely average for the class, though our test drive didn’t provide an opportunity to see what effect smaller 20in alloy wheels would have on comfort.
Audi's cheeky little SUV offers exactly what we expected from the tech-loving German automaker in a handsome and mostly practical package.
Pros Sharp styling, plentiful tech features, spunky driving demeanor.
Cons Tight rear quarters, noticeable turbo lag, a few cheap interior materials.
In the Q3 Sportback, Audi introduces a racier version of its newest upcoming Q3 small SUV, and it's bound to attract plenty of admirers since it gives up very little in the way of space.
Pros Like a perfectly scaled-down Audi Q8 Great looks inside and out Premium cabin with new levels of detail and trim work Fun to drive (both engines) 45 TFSI feels like a proper hot hatch in the corners Good ride comfort with adaptive dampers Good safety and tech
Cons There's a big gap in performance between the 35–45 TFSI Expect a similar-size gap in prices, too
The Audi Q3 Sportback is a more stylish alternative to your average boxy SUV, although others are more fun to drive and have more room for passengers.
Pros Big boot Stylish looks Plenty of standard equipment
Cons Cramped back seats Alternatives are more fun to drive Automatic gearbox is a bit sluggish
The 2020 Audi Q3 blends practicality, quality, and fun in a chunky but city-friendly package.
Pros Lots of standard tech… Punchy turbo engine Hot hatchback handling Standard all-wheel drive
Cons …But best features cost a lot more Lackluster fuel economy Gets expensive fast