Compact power: Audi unveils the new RSQ3 and RSQ3 Sportback

Audi Sport presents the new edition of the RSQ3 and the RSQ3 Sportback. The two sport compacts offer outstanding performance, athletic design and maximum everyday usability.

The Audi RSQ3 and the Audi RSQ3 Sportback are synonymous with strength and outstanding performance, virtues that are also reflected in their design. The Singleframe gloss black grill with three-dimensional honeycomb structure is inset deeper and directly into the RS bumper, flanked by large side air inlets.

While at the rear, a low rear window and the roof edge spoiler with RS-specific spoiler lip in gloss black, the RSQ3 Sportback appears even wider than its sister model.

The RS-specific long roof edge spoiler in the RSQ3 meanwhile emphasises the pronounced forward thrust of the high-performance SUV and ensures improved downforce. The RSQ3 also comes for the first time with a dual-branch RS exhaust system with large oval tailpipes on both sides and chrome-coloured trims.

Both models are powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, delivering 395hp and 480Nm of torque, allowing both cars to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. Their top speeds are regulated at 250km/h.

Power from the five-cylinder engine flows via a seven-speed S tronic to a quattro permanent all-wheel drive that distributes the power as needed between the axles via a multi-plate clutch.

For the first time on a compact high-performance SUV, Audi Sport offers 21-inch wheels in various rim designs.

Behind the standard 20-inch or optional 21-inch wheels, an all new six-piston RS steel brake system works with ventilated and perforated discs. The brake calipers are painted black as standard and are available in red as an option. RS ceramic brakes are available an option in grey, red or blue.

On the inside, emphasis is placed on horizontal lines to conveys a generous sense of space, while the air-conditioning control unit, the centre console and the MMI touch display are tilted toward the driver.

The MMI touchscreen display with its high-gloss black glass-look surround slots in seamlessly with the rest of the dashboard. The optional Audi Virtual Cockpit plus features a shift light display that prompts the driver to upshift when the maximum engine speed is reached.

Special RS displays in the Audi Virtual Cockpit plus also provide information on tire pressure, torque, power output, lap times, g-force and acceleration. The Sport seats in black leather/Alcantara with RS embossing express the athletic character of the cars, while RS sport seats in fine Nappa leather with RS-specific honeycomb pattern and integrated head restraints are also available for the first time in the Q3 family. Inlays in Aluminium Race, anthracite, or optional piano finish black, or carbon, round out the sporty interior.

RS logos adorn the interior on the steering wheel and the illuminated front door sill trims. The RS sport flat-bottom leather steering wheel, features newly designed shift paddles and comes with multifunction buttons that allow the driver to control the two optional RS modes in the Audi Drive Select dynamic handling system.

The new cars are designed as fully fledged five-seater models and also offer maximum everyday usability for all their sportiness.

The rear seats can be moved by up to 150mm in the RSQ3 or 130mm in the RSQ3 Sportback, while their three-way split backrests can be tilted in seven stages. The luggage compartment in the RSQ3 holds 530 litres, which expands to 1,525 litres with the backrests folded down, while the Sportback is capable of holding up to 1,400 litres.