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 Jeep Compass ranked #16 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Jeep Compass has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Affordable price Proficient off-roader Upmarket cabin
Cons Less cargo space than most rivals Underpowered engine Tepid handling
No significant changes for 2019.With a distinctive blend of off-road chops, decent highway manners and around-town maneuverability, the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of shoppers looking for an upscale midsize SUV.
PROS Plush interior with plentiful luxury and technology Enough off-road ability to conquer practically any trail Available V8 engines offer substantial power Impressive tow ratings for the class
CONS Firm ride quality may disappoint, even with air suspension Limited cargo capacity compared to top rivals Underwhelming acceleration with base V6
The 2019 Jeep Compass stays true to the brand’s off-road formula, but bends toward usability rather than capability.
Pros Handsome exterior Generous, standard 7.0-inch touchscreen Rugged Trailhawk option Good customization options Respectable fuel economy, for now
Cons Indecisive 9-speed automatic Active safety features a spend-up option Mixed crash-test scores Three will fit in the back in a pinch, literally
