Audi RS Q3 performance unleashed – 367 hp/465 Nm

Audi has introduced a new top-shelf variant for its Q3 range, called the RS Q3 performance. Sitting just above the regular RS Q3, the new variant features the same 2.5 litre TFSI five-cylinder engine, but is tuned to deliver more power.

The Audi RS Q3 performance variant delivers 367 hp and 465 Nm of torque from 1,625 rpm to 5,550 rpm – 27 hp and 15 Nm more than the regular RS Q3. Audi explains that the extra power has been achieved by increasing the cooling capacity of the main radiator and an optimising the vehicle’s fuel pump. But despite the power bump, there’s still not enough to beat the Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG’s 381 hp and 475 Nm.

Where the regular RS Q3 is capable of performing the century sprint in 4.8 seconds, the performance variant achieves the sprint in 4.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 270 km/h. Fuel consumption is listed at 8.6 litres per 100 km.

The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission has been tuned for even more aggression and quattro all-wheel drive system has been retained. An RS sport suspension lowers the performance variant’s ride by 20 mm compared to the regular Q3. Additionally, an RS sport suspension plus with damper control is optionally available.

There aren’t too many exterior differences between the RS Q3 and the new performance variant, save for the exterior chrome trim pieces now being finished in a darker matte titanium colour. The same treatment has been applied to the five, twin-spoke V design 20-inch wheels. A new Ascari blue metallic paint option (pictured here) has also been added.

As mentioned, the Audi RS Q3 performance will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016 and is ready for bookings in Germany now. The base price is 61,000 euros (RM281k), and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2016.

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