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.
Pros Comfortable and upscale interior Optional engines offer efficiency and power MyLink user interface is intuitive and easy to use Extensive list of optional safety features
Cons Midrange trims offer fewer standard safety features than competitors Base 1.5-liter is disappointing all around Less cargo space behind the back seat than most competitors Price with options runs higher than average for the class
The 2019 GMC Terrain is another contender for crossover shoppers’ consideration, but its high price and lack of active safety features keep it on the bench for now.
Pros Handsome exterior shape Composed ride Tony Denali trim has luxury bona fides Smooth 9-speed automatic Apple CarPlay compatibility
Cons Part-time all-wheel drive Diesel adds thousands to bottom line No more sliding second row Active safety features cost extra, on all trims
The 2019 GMC Terrain ranked #11 in Compact SUVs. Currently the GMC Terrain has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale interior Spacious seats Smooth ride Excellent fuel economy
Cons Poor rearward visibility Higher starting price than most competitors
