By Sala Masindane

The first-generation of the Audi RS Q3 may not have been a hit or miss but it was felt and had an impact to the masses when it comes to high-performance compact luxury SUVs. We got well-acquainted with the second-generation as we had missed the experience of its predecessor. The competition in this segment is fearsome and is not the same as when the RS Q3 was initially introduced.

RS-specific exterior design

Besides the obvious Kyalami Green body paint, the RS Q3 Sportback was dressed in RS-specific garb like the single-frame radiator grille and sportier front and rear bumpers. The rear sports RennSport’s signature oval exhaust tips which house the standard dual-branch RS sports exhaust system.

RS-specific interior

The RS theme is continued inside the driver focused cabin which features a multifunctional flat-bottom steering wheel and a Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound system. The cabin is a great space to be in thanks to sporty RS badged sports seats which are comfortable for daily usage and good to look at. The dash design and quality are also impressive. Second-row headroom and legroom is decent as well.

The 530 litre luggage space offer smaller family’s sufficient space for trips. It’s also handy for a couple looking for a practical performance car as well.

Performance and drive

Powering the sporty SUV is a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder TFSI engine which develops 294kW and 480Nm. The permanent Quattro AWD system and 7-speed S tronic helps propel the potent RS Q3 Sportback from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The RS Q3 Sportback is satisfyingly quick and holds its own on twisty, challenging roads. The performance SUV is also a pleasure to drive daily or when you want to let your hair down.

Summary

All-in-all, the RS Q3 Sportback is not just quick in straight lines, it offers performance above that and rewards with practicality as well. It is priced from R1,183,500 and includes a five-year or 100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.