The fact that it wasn't based on the MQB platform never stopped the Audi Q3 from getting a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo. However, the switch might allow it to become the dominant force in the performance crossover market.
After being recently photographed at the well-known test track, the second-generation RS Q3 has now been captured on video, which allows us to sample the might of its 2.5 TFSI. It's looking almost ready for production, though the official debut won't happen until 2019.
They say that origin stories (like Batman's) are the most boring and that's why the second movies in a franchise are better. The RS Q3 could also be described as an over-powered hero car, and its second version will be better, considering the original came out with only 310 horsepower.
Speculation led some to suggest that a new version of this motor will eventually cross the 450 HP barrier. However, nobody could have foreseen the impact the new WLTP emissions tests would have. The RS3 has been temporarily pulled out of the range while the TT RS might be delayed.
So if the RS Q3 comes out with 400 HP, we'll be happy campers. But if they give us 390 or something along those lines, it's still okay. Of course, there's also the off chance that they'll use a 12V mild hybrid configuration to lower emissions.
The crossover segment really doesn't have amazing technologies as you see on big SUVs. There's no air suspension or smart anti-roll bars. But that also means the RS Q3 will be pretty light at about 1.6 tons.
Audi Sport doesn't mess around when it makes RS cars, so the performance Q3 will have the strongest DSG gearbox and AWD system they have. It should launch like a rocket, giving even electric models something to worry about.
Of course, it will also be quite expensive. We predict a starting price of around €50,000, about the same as the Mk1 Cayenne.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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