Audi has updated the Q3 model range by adding two flagship RS models – the RS Q3, and RS Q3 Sportback.
These range-topping SUVs get all Audi’s latest features, as well as the most powerful engine in the line-up.
They have beautiful leather seats with honeycomb stitching, large displays that handle the vehicle’s many abilities, and aggressive styling that is unique to RS models.
Exclusive RS additions inside the cabin enhances the sporty character and a plethora of safety systems are fitted – as this vehicle can reach 250km/h with ease.
It also provides practicality, as the cabin can fit up to five people while still being able to squeeze 530 litres of cargo in the boot.
Under the hood, Audi placed a 2.5-litre, five-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine capable of delivering 294kW and 480Nm.
The motor is mated to a seven-speed S-tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel-drive system – and this setup will send both RS Q3 models from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds.
These high-performance vehicles are not cheap, though.
The Audi RS Q3 quattro has a South African starting price of R1,094,000. The new Sportback trim will then set you back R1,128,000.
Each model is then sold with a 5-year/100,000km Audi Freeway plan.
The competition
The Q3 is a mid-size SUV that fits into no single segment in the market.
It’s too big to compete against crossovers, as that’s what the Q2 is for.
However, it’s too small to compete against full-size SUVs, as that’s what the Q5 is for.
Consequently, the Q3 fills the gap between having a proper SUV or a compact kerb hopper.
To see what it competes against in both of these segments, we have compiled a list of the country’s sportiest R1.1-million SUVs below.
If you would would like more information about new SUVs in South Africa, visit TopAuto Car Prices.
BMW X3 xDrive30d M Sport
- Price – R1,140,946
- Power – 195kW/620Nm
- 0-100km/h – 5.8 seconds
- Warranty – 5-year/100,000km BMW Motorplan with roadside assistance.
Jaguar E-Pace 300 Sport
- Price – R1,057,940
- Power – 221kW/400Nm
- 0-100km/h – 6.9 seconds
- Warranty – 5-year/100,000km Jaguar Care warranty and service plan.
Land Rover Discovery Sport P290 R-Dynamic S Black
- Price – R1,091,882
- Power – 213kW/400Nm
- 0-100km/h – 7.4 seconds
- Warranty – 5-year/100,000km Land Rover Care warranty and service plan.
Lexus RX 350 EX
- Price – R1,095,700
- Power – 221kW/370Nm
- 0-100km/h – 8.0 seconds
- Warranty – 7-year/105,000km warranty and service plan.
Mercedes-Benz GLC300 Coupe 4MATIC
- Price – R1,139,200
- Power – 200kW/370Nm
- 0-100km/h – 6.3 seconds
- Warranty – 2-year/unlimited kilometre manufacturer’s warranty, and 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan and roadside assistance.
Porsche Macan
- Price – R1,019,000
- Power – 185kW/370Nm
- 0-100km/h – 6.7 seconds
- Warranty – 3-year/100,000km Driveplan Maintenance Agreement.
Range Rover Evoque P250 R-Dynamic HSE
- Price – R1,124,830
- Power – 184kW/365Nm
- 0-100km/h – 7.6 seconds
- Warranty – 5-year/100,000km Land Rover Care warranty and service plan.
Keyword: The R1.1-million competitors taking on the Audi RS Q3