Audi has revealed a new compact SUV flagship with 362 hp and 343 lb-ft of
torque that slots above the RS Q3.
Joining RS 6 and RS 7 performance variants in the new wave of models positioned
above 'standard' RS equivalents, the 2016 Audi RS Q3 performance uses an
increased 362 hp output to deliver better acceleration on the ascent to an
elevated 167 mph top speed, and features equipment enhancements which also
distance it visually from its namesake.
Deliveries of the Audi RS Q3 performance are scheduled to begin in the second
quarter of 2016.
RS Q3 Performance' Exterior and Interior Design
The exterior design with its typical RS design details underscores the
distinctive appearance of the Audi high-performance models. These include the
purposefully styled bumpers with large air inlets up front, the heavily profiled
diffuser insert at the rear and the gloss black honeycomb grilles.
The exterior of the 2016 Audi RS Q3 performance is also distinguishable from the
'standard' RS Q3 through additional matt titanium-look detailing applied to the
frame of the air inlet duct, the Singleframe grille, the lateral flaps in the
air inlets, the trim strips at the side windows, the exterior mirror housings,
the roof rails, the upper edge of the diffuser and the fins of the roof edge
spoiler. To maximize the differentiation, the new paint finish Ascari blue
metallic is also exclusively available as an option for the RS Q3 performance.
RS-specific 20-inch 'performance exclusive' alloy wheels with a matt titanium
finish which complements the exterior detailing are standard, and red calipers
bearing the RS logo are visible within them. These are also available in black
at no extra charge.
The dynamic line of the exterior design is echoed in the interior. The dial
instruments feature grey faces, white dials and red needles. Sports seats
finished in Alcantara and leather with honeycomb stitching in blue are standard
for UK models, and the blue accents are also applied to elements such as the RS
sport leather steering wheel, the selector lever gaiter, the center armrest and
the floor mats. Inlays in carbon twill blue, in which a blue thread is woven
into the carbon material, continue the theme into the dashboard and door
mouldings.
Equipment levels befit the RS badge, and externally include all-LED headlights
with LED daytime running lights and tail lights, privacy glass, powered tailgate
operation and the Audi advanced key system affording keyless entry and starting.
Inside, features such as front seat heating, the Audi Music Interface channeled
through the 180-watt Audi Sound System, satellite navigation and front and rear
parking sensors ensure that the prodigious performance is delivered as
comfortably and conveniently as Audi drivers rightfully expect.