Audi RSQ3 10 Years edition revealed
Audi’s revealed a 10th anniversary special for its RSQ3, but this one isn’t coming to the UK
Audi Sport has revealed its next special edition model, this time based on the RSQ3. The Audi RSQ3 10 Years edition follows recent specials based on the TT RS and R8, and mimics those models by offering a collection of bespoke elements on a limited number of units.
As the name suggests, this special celebrates 10 years since the RSQ3’s introduction, and will be limited to 555 units worldwide at a €5990 premium over the base car in Germany. Unfortunately, the 10 Years edition isn’t coming to the UK, so for everyone else this is what’s in store.
The most obvious new addition to the 10 Years edition is a fresh set of lightweight 21-inch wheels running on 225-section Continental tyres at each corner. On the front axle, the RSQ3’s usually optional carbon ceramic brake discs are fitted as standard, paired with six-piston calipers finished in grey – red or blue calipers are able to be specified.
The new wheels are joined by darkened lenses within the head and tail lights, matched to gloss black finishes to the window surrounds, front and rear bumper garnishes and grille elements. Audi Sport is offering two colour options, a bespoke Chronos Grey or Dew Silver in a matte finish, the latter having been available on RSQ3 models in Germany since its last model year update.
Inside, the RSQ3 features Audi Sport’s new carbon-backed bucket seats finished black leather and Dinamica microsuede. It’s punctured by Audi’s honeycomb stitch pattern in a copper coloured thread, matched on the instrument cluster and dash-top. There’s also carbon inlays and a unique interface design to the central touchscreen.
There are no mechanical upgrades, the small SUV still utilising Audi’s trusted 394bhp turbocharged 2.5-litre in-line five-cylinder matched to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and Haldex-style all-wheel drive system. There’s no torque-vectoring rear differential as in the latest RS3 either, and performance figures are unchanged from the standard car with a 0-62mph time of 4.5sec and a limited 155mph top speed (or 174mph with the optional Driver’s Package.)
While we at evo will always be more partial to a hot hatchback than a hot small SUV, the RSQ3 has generally been an exception to the rule by bringing genuine pace and engagement to what’s usually a fairly uninteresting end of the car market.
