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 2021 Toyota Sequoia comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.Nightshade package debuts with blacked-out exterior trim.
PROS Cargo area is one of the largest in this class For a big SUV, it rides pretty comfortably over bumps Flexible seating arrangement allows for up to eight passengers Respectable off-road capability for a big SUV
CONS Even among large SUVs, fuel economy is poor Audio controls and front central cupholders are hard to reach Recently updated infotainment system already feels dated
For 2021, the sole change to the Sequoia lineup is the addition of the new Nightshade model. Essentially an appearance package, it features black 20-inch wheels and darkened chrome on the grille, door handles, side trim, and badging. The Nightshade Sequoia also has black leather upholstery and is available in Wind Chill Pearl, Magnetic Gray, and Midnight Black.
PROS Third row is roomy enough for adults, plenty of standard driver-assistance tech, potent and proven V-8 powertrain.
CONS Unimpressive interior, unrefined ride, underwhelming fuel economy.
The 2021 Toyota Sequoia's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Large SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Sequoia has a score of 6.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 63 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Good predicted reliability rating Strong engine Spacious cabin
CONS Outdated infotainment system Hard plastics fill the cabin Ride can be uncomfortable Poor gas mileage
