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 BMW X5 M is an amazing mix of very high performance, luxurious accommodation and SUV practicality, but it doesn’t come cheap.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Loads of technology
Cons Ageing looks Expensive to buy and run Not all the safety features are standard
For 2021, BMW gives the X5 M some new standard features and removes several standalone options. Android Auto is now finally offered. It's standard along with a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio with 360L. The previously optional roof rails and exterior trim in satin aluminum, night vision with pedestrian detection, and the rear-seat entertainment system have been eliminated. BMW also changes the Competition designation from a model to a package.
Pros Jaw-dropping acceleration, shockingly athletic for its size, upscale cabin environment.
Cons Ride will be too stiff for some, cost will be too pricey for most, don't even think of taking it off-road.
2021 Now available with Android Auto smartphone integration.Minor changes to feature availability and option packages.
Pros Massive power from the twin-turbo V8 Impressive handling and braking for such a big vehicle Includes tech and other features from the standard X5
Cons Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride Small mirrors and thick roof pillars create large blind spots Not a lot of interior storage
