Audi->ke14 has reported for quite some time that once the RS7 Sportback was unveiled, the RS Q3 would also arrive. And it will really happen, as the new sporty SUV will make its world debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Just today, Audi released the official information and images of the new RS Q3.

The model will be distinguished by the same bold and aggressive exterior look seen in all the recently announced RS models. The RS Q3 gets a unique front bumper with large air intakes, honeycomb mesh grille inserts, matte-aluminum trim, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a prominent rear diffuser. The interior will have diamond-quilted leather seats featuring contrasting white stitching and lots of aluminum insertions.

In Germany the new RS Q3 will go on sale in fall 2013 at a price of €54,600 - about $75,500 at the current exchange rates.

Hit the jump to read more about the new Audi RS Q3.

UPDATE 02/20/13: The first promo video for the Audi RS Q3 has just been released by the German automaker. Check it out by clicking on the photo above!

2014 Audi RS Q3

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Audi RS Q3
  • Engine/Motor: inline-5
  • Horsepower: 310 @ 5200
  • Torque: 309 @ 1500
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

When compared to a standard Audi Q3, the new RS version will be distinguished by the usual elements we have seen in the previously announced RS models. These elements will include a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille, RS front bumper and quattro emblem in the front air intake and for the rear a large roof spoiler, a new bumper an a special RS Q3 logo.

The model also received numerous aluminum insertions on the body and roof rails, plus special door sill plates and door trim strips.

The model can be further customized with two optional styling packages -- matte aluminum or black -- that add special styling features on the flaps in the side air intakes, the trim on the diffuser and the fins on the roof spoiler.

Customers can choose between eight exterior colors, including an exclusive Sepang Blue pearl effect.

Dimensions

Length

4,410 mm (173.62 inches)

Wheelbase

2,603 mm (102.48 inches)

Width

2019 mm (79.48 inches)

Height

1580 mm (62.20 inches)

Weight

1,730 kg (3814.00 pounds)


Interior

When entering the cabin, you will notice the same sporty feeling found on the exterior. On the instrument cluster you will see the same gray gauges with white scales and red pointers usually seen in all the RS models. There is also a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with contrasting stitching in rock gray, and, of course numerous, elements in aluminum look, like the pedals and foot support. As an option, these elements can be ordered in aluminum race or carbon fiber.

The model will also be offered with sports seats upholstered in standard black Alcantara/leather or in optional Fine Nappa leather in black or lunar silver with contrasting stitching in rock gray.

Each model will be offered with a MMI and driver information system that offers details on the boost pressure, oil temperature and lap timer.

The new Q3 RS will offer a cargo area of 356 liters (12.57 cubic-feet), but it can be increased to 1,261 liters (44.53 cubic-feet) by folding down the split rear seat backs. .

Standard features:

-Park assist plus

-Audi sound system with ten loudspeakers

-Xenon plus headlights

-LED tail lights.

Drivetrain

Under the hood of the new Audi RS Q3, you will find a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo engine that delivers a total of 310 horsepower and a peak torque of 309 pound-feet of torque. The same engine has been used in the TT RS and RS 3 Sportback, and has been combined with an exhaust system and an accelerator that allows choosing between three modes: auto, comfort and dynamic.

The engine is combined with a standard seven-speed S tronic transmission and sends power to all four wheels via Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Also, for the first time the five-cylinder engine is working together with a standard start-stop-system.

The new Audi RS Q3 will go from 0 to 60 mph is just 5.5 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited).

Engine

2.5-liter five-cylinder

Horsepower

310 hp at 5,200-6,700 rpm

Torque

309.78 lb-ft between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm

0 to 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph)

5.5 seconds

Top Speed

155 mph

Fuel consumption

8.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (26.73 US mpg)

Transmission

seven-speed S tronic


Suspensions and brakes

Like with all the other RS models, the new RS Q3 is offered with an RS sports suspension that lowers the car's body by 25 millimeters (0.98 in). The rear axle received an independent suspension controlled by four links.

As standard features, the new RS Q3 offers an electro-mechanical rack-and-pinion steering system, an electro-mechanical parking brake and hill hold assist.

The SUV sits on a standard set of 19-inch alloy wheels, or optional 20-inch in five dual-spoke V design. Also install is a high-performance brake system featuring internally ventilated and perforated brake discs at the front wheels.

Prices

The new Audi RS Q3 will go on sale in fall 2013. In Germany, the new RS Q3 is priced at €54,600 (about $75,500 at the current exchange rates).

Competitors

With all the updates it received, the new Audi RS Q3 is kind of an unique model in its segment. Still, where are a few other models you can choose from, when taking under consideration output and price.

BMW X3 xDrive35i->ke255

When it comes to power level, the closest thing to the new Audi RS Q3 is the top version BMW X3: the xDrive35i version. It is powered by a 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 300 horsepower. Of course, this is a little less than the RS Q3, but the X3 is a little bit cheaper: $43,950.

A revised version for the BMW X3 is being expected for the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Porsche Cayenne S->ke212

A more powerful model than the RS Q3 is the Porsche Cayenne S. It is powered by a 4.8-liter V-8 engine that cranks out 400 horsepower. Of course, it is easy to notice that the Cayenne delivers an extra 90 horsepower over the RS Q3, but it is the most expensive model from all three competitors, starting at $65,850.

Conclusion

The new Audi RS Q3 is the first RS model for the successful Q lineup and combines outstanding everyday practicality with dynamic driving performance. If it will be as successful as all the other RS models we will find out in the upcoming months.