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 Lexus UX 250h is an all-new model.The 2019 Lexus UX 250h comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.
Pros Fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain Improved performance over standard non-hybrid model Lots of standard and optional safety tech Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons Infotainment interface can be difficult to use Limited rear-seat legroom Small rear cargo space with high liftover height
The 2019 Lexus UX gives its maker a kicky new entry point for crossover shoppers.
Pros Attractive styling... ... inside and out Hybrid's excellent predicted fuel economy Fills a much-needed gap in Lexus' lineup Intriguing subscription model
Cons On paper, not much power CVTs aren't our favorite transmissions AWD only with hybrid Only a value compared to rivals
The 2019 Lexus UX Hybrid ranked #5 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Lexus UX Hybrid has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supple ride quality Great fuel economy Attractive interior
Cons Below-average cargo capacity Frustrating infotainment system Lackluster powertrain
