Geneva Motor Show 2013: Audi to debut RS Q3

Audi is to debut its first RS Q model – the RS Q3 – at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. It’s powered by a five-cylinder turbo engine producing 310PS and has quattro all-wheel drive as standard. Order books will open in Summer and you can expect a hefty premium over the standard Q3.

Despite being a relatively tall, bulky car, the RS Q3 has impressive performance. 0-62mph takes 5.5 seconds while the top speed is limited to 155mph. Peak torque of 420Nm is available across a wide band of the rev range – from 1500rpm to 5200rpm – so expect good in gear performance. Official fuel economy is 32.1mpg on the combined cycle, meaning 206g/km of CO2 emissions.

The 2.5-litre engine – familiar from other RS models like the RS3 - is linked to a seven-speed S Tronic twin-clutch gearbox and there’s permanent quattro all-wheel drive. There are three driving modes – auto, comfort and dynamic. Selecting dynamic gives the most eager performance and opens a flap in the exhaust to give a more purposeful sound.

Obvious changes from the standard model include a 25mm lower ride height and RS styling – there are different bumpers, elliptical exhaust pipes, new sill-plates, a honeycomb grille and quattro badges. Eight colours are offered, including the RS Q3 exclusive ‘Sepang Blue’ pearl.

The cabin sports RS details, with different instrument dials and RS badges. Standard equipment includes Audi MMI infotainment. As an option buyers can upgrade to a BOSE surround sound audio system with 14 speakers. The Audi RS Q3 will be on display at the Geneva Motor Show 2013 – you can read more Geneva Motor Show news by clicking the banner below.