Audi RS Q3 unveiled
* Audi RS Q3 will be at Geneva * Audi's first RS SUV * UK orders from the summer with delivery later in the year...
The Audi RS Q3 is the first Audi SUV to receive the RS treatment.
The RS Q3 gets the five-cylinder 2.5-litre petrol engine that's in the TT RS and the RS3 Sportback. The engine is coupled to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch, semi-automatic gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system.
Audi Drive Select is fitted as standard, and allows the driver to customise the accelerator response and the sound of the exhaust system. It also features Auto, Comfort and Dynamic modes, with the fastest throttle response available in Dynamic mode.
The RS Q3 gets sports suspension that's 25mm lower than the standard car's, plus an electronic stability control system that can be turned off completely.
The engine produces 306bhp and 310lb ft of torque. The RS Q3 races to 62mph in 5.5 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 155mph.
The RS Q3 is fitted with an engine stop-start system, which helps it to do an average of 32.1mpg and emit just 206g/km of CO2.
Styling tweaks over the standard car include black brake calipers with RS logos, a black honeycomb front grille, RS bumpers, rear diffuser, oval tailpipes and roof spoilers in matt aluminium. The RS Q3 is also available in an exclusive blue paint.
Inside the cabin the RS Q3 is fitted with aluminium pedals, grey gauges with red needles and a lap timer in the RS menu on the MMI system.
The RS Q3 is going to be at the Geneva motor show. UK order books will open in the summer with deliveries due later in the year. The RS Q3 will cost 54,600 in Germany. UK prices have not been confirmed but expect a starting price between 45,000 and 50,000.
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