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 Nissan Pathfinder has value and interior flexibility as its assets, but this crossover SUV is ripe for a redesign.
Pros Comfortable interior Active safety tech standard Strong V-6 engine Good value Calm ride
Cons Outdated infotainment Subpar outward vision Land yacht handling Light on refinement
Rear parking sensors and USB-C ports now standard on specific trim levels.Additional driver aids now standard on all but base trim level.The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder now offers USB-C ports for front and rear passengers, and features once reserved for the top trim levels trickle down through the range.
PROS V6 engine delivers strong acceleration with decent fuel economy Third-row seating is easy to access Offers robust towing capacity Automatic emergency braking and rear parking sensors are standard on every trim level
CONS Cargo capacity and small-item storage are below average Offers less roomy third-row space than some rivals The top trim's ride quality may be too firm for some drivers
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder ranked #18 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Nissan Pathfinder has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 55 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Easy-to-use infotainment system Strong engine
Cons Stiff ride Dull cabin materials Uncomfortable rear seats Small cargo hold
