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.
Lexus goes light on updates for the 2020 UX by only adding a couple new features. Its subscription-based Enform connected services now has a revised trial period. Likewise, a rear cross-traffic alert has been added to its blind-spot monitor.
Pros Enjoyable to drive, convincingly upscale interior, generous standard features.
Cons Unrefined engine noises, annoying infotainment touchpad, small cargo area.
The 2020 Lexus UX 200 comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.Adds Android Auto and Google Assistant functionality.Reverse braking now included with blind-spot warning option.
Pros High fuel economy Lots of standard and optional safety tech Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons Infotainment interface can be difficult to use Small rear cargo space with high liftover height Less powerful than some competitors All-wheel drive isn't available
The 2020 Lexus UX's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Lexus UX has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Terrific fuel economy Comfortable ride Good maneuverability
Cons Frustrating infotainment controls Lackluster engine Dull driving dynamics
