An RS model has to look stunning, relative to its more normal cousin. The RS Q3 gets body accents and roof rails in matt aluminum, special door sill plates and door trim strips, a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille, RS front bumper and quattro emblem in the front air intake in addition to the large roof spoiler, rear bumper with distinctive diffuser insert, large elliptical tailpipe and an RS Q3 logo at the rear. The dynamic top model is 25mm longer than a Audi Q3. Exclusive colors for this RS model include the ‘Sepang Blue pearl effect’ shade.
The RS badging continues in the interior. The MMI and driver information system displays the RS logo. The RS Q3 also can display information like boost pressure, oil temperature and a lap timer via the RS menu in the driver information system. Aluminium pedals, a front support, contrast stitching, sport seats with the embossed RS Q3 logos complete the ensemble.
The RS Q3 will be powered by a 2.5 L TFSI engine making 310 hp at 5,200-6,700 rpm and a peak torque of 420 Nm is available between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm. The same engine powers the Audi TT RS as well as the recently launched RS 3 Sportback. An RS model has to sound good, the 1-2-4-5-3 ignition sequence just does that for the engine, working in conjunction with the air intake and exhaust noises!
Performance figures are in the region of 5.5 seconds for 0-100 kph making it the best in its segment. In the RS Q3, the Audi five-cylinder engine is working together with a standard start-stop-system for the first time.
quattro permanent all wheel drive system continues its existence in the RS Q3. The RS sports suspension lowers the body by 25 mm.
The RS Q3 weighs in at 1,730 kg. The internally ventilated and perforated brake discs at the front wheels have a wave design with wave-shaped outer contours, which saves nearly one kilogram of weight at the front wheels. The discs have a diameter of 365 mm and are gripped by eight-piston calipers painted black with RS logos. The electronic stabilization control (ESC) has a sport mode, and it can also be deactivated entirely. The Audi RS Q3 is available in Germany with standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Three versions of 20-inch wheels are offered as well. One of these is the exclusive 5 dual-spoke V design, which is based on the Audi RS Q3 concept car that was shown at the 2012 Auto China motor show.