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.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard.New dual-screen infotainment system.
Pros Roomy interior with comfortable seating Lots of cargo space Easy to get in and out Quiet at highway speeds
Cons Inconsistent power delivery due to CVT automatic Artificial steering feel
The 2020 Infiniti QX50's #8 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the Infiniti QX50 has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Spacious seating and cargo area Many standard safety features Composed ride and handling
Cons Complex dual-screen infotainment system Modest powertrain performance
Infiniti expands the 2020 QX50 lineup with two new trim levels and newly standard equipment. The Sensory and Autograph models now top the QX50 pyramid with the most desirable features. Every version now has driver assists that include automatic high-beams, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, rear automated emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. The QX50's infotainment system adds the latest software along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Likewise, the lineup gains some fresh and reshuffled option packages.
Pros One-of-a-kind engine, indulgent interior, generous cargo space.
Cons Disappointing fuel efficiency, engine can be noisy, top models get top content.
