Beijing show: Audi Q3 RS
Audi has revealed the Q3 RS concept at the Beijing show, fitted with the 355bhp, 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine from the RS3
Mini-SUVs seemed to be all the rage at Beijing, so it's fitting that Audo unveiled its Q3 RS concept, which takes the format to a high-performance level. The headline figures are 355bhp from its 2.5-litre five-pot as seen in the Audi TT-RS, and performance is outstanding for a car of this sector, with a 0-62mph time of 5.2 secs and a maximum speed of 164mph.
Transmission is by a seven-speed dual-clutch S-Tronic transmission system, channeled to all four wheels - in the traditional quattro permanent set-up.
Visually, the Q3 is on message, having been lowered by 25mm, and boosted by an all-new RS bodykit. The honeycomb grille is also an RS styling cue, and complements the carbonfibre-reinforced plastic rear spoiler.
Blue is the colour of the RS (a call-back to the original RS2), with the exterior satin finish complemented by a matching Nappa leather and Alcantara interior. No word on price and launch date yet - watch this space.
