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 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class delivers no-compromise crossover SUV comfort and luxury.
Pros Sublime interior Comfortable ride Strong engines Luxurious options list
Cons Price will climb fast More wind and road noise than expected Where's the AMG? Tight third row
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class comes with all wheel drive, and rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.The GLE has been fully redesigned for 2020.Part of the second GLE generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Attractive, roomy and upscale cabin MBUX infotainment system is an industry leader GLE 450's optional E-Active suspension provides impressive handling stability Excellent outward visibility
Cons Options quickly drive the price up Midgrade Airmatic suspension feels too floaty Transmission shifts are more pronounced than we'd like
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class ranked #2 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 9 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros State-of-the-art infotainment and safety technology Cabin is opulent, serene, and spacious Vibrant powertrains Comfortable, balanced handling
Cons Infotainment system can be distracting to use
