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 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport is a good value, but it’s light on performance.
Pros Good safety tech Low price Pleasant styling
Cons Far from sporty Slow acceleration Cramped back seat
Nissan has elevated the styling of the 2020 Rogue Sport with a new front and rear design, LED daytime running lamps, and a redesigned grille and hood that contribute to a much more chiseled look. Nissan also has added two new colors to the Rogue Sport's palette: Nitro Lime Metallic and Monarch Orange Metallic. Additionally, the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance technologies that was previously offered on the SV and SL is now a standard feature on all trims. If you're looking to spice things up, Nissan also is offering a new 19-inch wheel design that takes its inspiration from its luxury cousin, the Infiniti QX50.
Pros Sleek exterior design, efficient powertrain, great standard safety features.
Cons Sluggish acceleration, coarse engine sounds, lower trims lack some commonly found features.
