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.
Heated wiper blades and seats (AWD only), power child locks, and a rear 12-volt outlet added to base trim.R-Design and Inscription add 14-speaker stereo, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and drive, power-folding rear outer head restraints, and a parking assistance system.Convenience, Vision, and Climate packages replaced with similar Premium, Multimedia and Advanced packagesThe 2019 Volvo XC60 is one of the strongest contenders in the luxury SUV segment.
Pros Modern interior looks beautiful Plenty of available amenities and luxury options Abundant power from plug-in hybrid powertrain Seat comfort is unparalleled
Cons Not as fun to drive as most competitors Smaller cargo area behind rear seats than before Not as quiet as other cabins in the segment Even with air suspension, the ride is fairly busy
The 2019 Volvo XC60 ranked #9 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC60 has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 20 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Superb amount of standard and available safety features Elegant, spacious, and comfortable interior Smooth ride and handling Excellent towing rating
Cons Current generation has below-average predicted reliability
The 2019 Volvo XC60 is the full picture: advanced powertrains, gorgeous interior, subtle exterior.
Pros New, affordable front-wheel drive offering Gorgeous interior Competent powertrains Standard advanced safety features Logical and sharp touchscreen
Cons Can get pricey quickly Not especially fuel efficient without a plug Requires premium fuel It’s not in our driveway now
