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 Wrangler is a rugged two- or four-door SUV that’s an adventure waiting to happen.
Pros Impeccable off-road chops, in any configuration Iconic style More efficient turbo-4 Improved interior Easy-to-use optional off-road system
Cons Expensive for a Jeep Wrangler Rugged ride Back seat takes a back seat Sparse base trim Pickup and diesel are on the horizon
Jeep Wrangler SUV models are available with a 3.6 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 285 hp, depending on engine type. The 2019 Jeep Wrangler SUV comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual.
Pros Unrelentingly capable off-road Maintains rugged Jeep character Increased capability compared to old models Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
Cons Steering is slow and feels loose, especially on the Rubicon trim Poor ride comfort and handling abilities Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers Mild towing capability for an otherwise highly capable rig
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler ranked #13 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Jeep Wrangler has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Herculean off-road ability Four-door model has lots of cargo space Punchy turbocharged engine
Cons Other SUVs are more agile and smoother on the pavement High starting price Subpar gas mileage
