The New Audi Q3 and Audi RS Q3 – Better Than Ever

Well, that was impressively quick. Only 20 months after its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, Audi has presented its RS Q3 crossover with some very good styling improvements (interiorly and exteriorly), increased equipment levels and, finally, a better engine range. The face-lifted Audi Q3 does not run behind and has also been tweaked visually.

As it seems, this time Audi's team has set a goal to make as many styling, efficiency, safety, equipment and power adjustments as possible in order to accomplish highly successful results. With the new productive redesigns the vehicles become even more distinctive. The Q3 now comes with the 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine with Cylinder-on-Demand technology, which has originally been used in the A1 and A3 hatchbacks. The front-wheel-driven Q3 1.4 TFSI can now scamper to 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds (S tronic). This engine comes with either a six-speed manual or a twin-clutch S-tronic automatic gearbox. Nevertheless, the two versions are capable of 50.4mpg and 47.9mpg.

As for the Audi RS Q3, it is powered by an imposing 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI engine which produces boosted 340 HP and torque of 450 Nm (it has jumped from 309 pound-feet to 332 lb-ft). This extra boost lowers the initial sprint time of 5.5 seconds. As a result, the RS Q3 is enabled to accelerate to 63 miles per hour in the screaming 4.8 seconds.

There are also two more diesel engines both of which deliver more power. They have outputs of 150PS (the old one being 140PS) and 184PS, up from 177PS. The 2.0-litre TDI SE with 150PS, manual transmission and 17-inch alloy wheels is the efficiency standard bearer in the TDI camp. It shaves 18g/km from its CO2 rating, and offers official fuel economy of up to 61.4mpg and emissions of only 119g/km.

In relation to its exterior look, the Audi RS Q3 demonstrates idealness with its high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers. It is also given a special front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and a unique rear diffuser insert flanked by a large elliptical tailpipe. To add up to the simple but stylish look, there are also roof rails in matt aluminum, roof spoiler, special door sill plates and door trim strips. Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in Fine Nappa leather with contrast stitching.

Audi Q3, on the other hand, has LED headlights, new five-spoke design 18-inch alloy wheels and exterior enhancements. Inside the S line upgrade is comprised of cloth and leather combination upholstery for the sports seats and the option to specify S line sports suspension in place of the standard set-up at no cost.

Audi Q3 and Audi RS Q3 (2015)

Source: Audi