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.
The 2019 Dodge Journey has dropped entirely off our charts thanks to outdated style, safety, and technology.
Pros Low price Seven-seat capability Good optional infotainment Versatile interior
Cons Bad safety scores Limited features Dated feel Underwhelming in almost every way
Dodge does little to make the Journey more competitive for 2019. However, the company has dropped the SXT trim and pared down the lineup to three models: SE, Crossroad, and GT. The change means more standard features and options on the entry-level Journey SE, which can now be had with the V-6 powertrain. Likewise, its front and rear ends have sportier styling as well as new fog lamps and LED taillights. All models are now available with Destroyer Gray exterior paint, among the other color choices.
Pros Competitive pricing, easy-to-use infotainment, lots of storage space.
Cons Cut-rate interior, poor handling, lacks driver-assist tech.
The 2019 Dodge Journey ranked #21 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Dodge Journey has a score of 6.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 52 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Intuitive infotainment system Affordable price
Cons Leisurely acceleration with base engine Ponderous handling Few available safety features
