The new Audi RS Q3 and the new Audi RS Q3 Sportback: compact power packs

“We established a completely new segment with the first generation of the Audi RS Q3**. In order to continue this success story, we also offer the RS Q3** as an SUV Coupé for customers with a particular affinity for design,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “In doing so, we are setting a trend and tapping new growth potential for Audi Sport GmbH.”

Illustrator of character: the exterior design

The new Audi RS Q3** and the Audi RS Q3 Sportback** share numerous RS design features while also each illustrating their unique character through many details. The gloss black Singleframe with its three-dimensional honeycomb structure makes the two high-performance compact cars look even sharper. Its position is lower as compared to the Q3**, and it is inserted directly into the RS-specific bumper with large lateral air inlets. The striking boomerang-shaped blades in the bumper are designed exclusively for the RS Q3**. The RS genes are also apparent in the flat slits above the Singleframe radiator grille.

With its coupé-like roof line that slopes downward toward the rear, the RS Q3 Sportback** is 45 millimeters (1.8 in) lower than the RS Q3**. The rising shoulder line of the Sportback runs lower than that of its sister model and thus also lowers the body’s optical focus. This makes the wheels appear even larger and the SUV Coupé seem a little more muscular. The wheel arches, which are flared by ten millimeters (0.4 in), make both cars look wider.

The rear design also appears very powerful. With the low rear window and the roof edge spoiler in gloss black with the RS-specific spoiler lip, the RS Q3 Sportback** appears even wider and more dynamic than its sister model. The low-slung roof line culminates in strong, flat sloping D-pillars. The RS-specific long roof edge spoiler in the RS Q3** emphasizes the pronounced forward thrust of the high-performance SUV and ensures improved downforce. The new generation of the RS Q3** comes for the first time with a dual-branch RS exhaust system with large oval tailpipes on both sides. This exhaust system sits in an RS-specific bumper with rear diffuser and horizontal blades.

The compact high-performance SUV and the compact high-performance SUV Coupé are fitted with LED headlights as standard. Audi offers matrix LED headlights with RS-specific darkened bezels as an option.

Unique: the engine

The new RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback are fitted with the powerful five-cylinder 2.5 TFSI. It now draws just over 17 percent more power from 2,480 cc of displacement with 294 kW (400 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.9 – 8.8; combined CO₂ emissions in g/km: 204 – 202) than in the preceding generation of the RS Q3. Its maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available between 1,950 and 5,850 rpm. The RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 4.5 seconds. Their top speed is regulated at 250 km/h (155.3 mph) or an optional 280 km/h (174.0 mph).

The particular firing sequence of 1-2-4-5-3 and the odd number of cylinders make for a very special rhythm and unique engine sound. The dual-branch RS exhaust system emphasizes the characteristic sound of the five-cylinder engine, and the optional RS sport exhaust system makes it even sharper. The five-cylinder engine has won the sought-after “International Engine of the Year Award” nine times in a row.

As standard, the power of the five-cylinder engine is transmitted via a seven-speed S tronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The wheel-selective torque control perfects the safe and agile handling.

Sporty, agile, and versatile: the suspension

The consistently sporty suspension tuning is a basic requirement for the outstanding driving characteristics of the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback**. The standard RS sport suspension lowers the body by 10 millimeters (0.4 in) as compared to the Q3 family. Upon request, the RS sport suspension is available with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), whose sensors measure the sprung mass vibrations of the body and counteract rolling motions of the body when driving through curves at high speed and during load changes. The RS-tuned dampers are then adjusted accordingly to the road surface conditions and driving situation.

The dynamic handling system Audi drive select influences not only the suspension, but also the quattro drive, the steering, the S tronic, the engine characteristics, and the sound, for example. Depending on the selected equipment, there is a choice of five or six drive modes: comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, and individual or, as an alternative to the individual mode, the two new RS-specific modes RS1 and RS2. Via the MMI touch display, the driver can adjust and save the two RS modes individually. Simply pressing the new “RS MODE” steering wheel button provides rapid access to the two new RS modes and the last drive mode selected and allows the driver to switch between modes. This allows the customer to adjust their RS model in an even more individual way and to switch quickly between a dedicated sporty drive mode and a comfort-focused profile.

The RS-tuned progressive steering also conveys close contact with the road even on fast curves. Behind the standard 20-inch or optional 21-inch wheels, the all-new six-piston
RS steel brake system works with ventilated and perforated disks measuring 375 millimeters (14.8 in) (front) and 310 millimeters (12.2 in) (rear, not perforated). Their brake calipers are painted black as standard and are available in red as an option. The brake calipers of the optional all-new RS ceramic brake that measures 380 millimeters (15.0 in)(front, ceramic) and 310 millimeters (12.2 in) (rear, steel) are designed in either gray, red, or blue.

Great everyday usability: the space concept

A driving experience and performance values typical for a sports car combined with all the comfort-related advantages of a compact SUV, made possible by the overall concept of the RS Q3**: The compact powerhouses are designed as full-fledged five-seaters and while being extremely sporty, they also offer great everyday usability thanks to their high level of variability and the large interior. As standard, the rear bench can be moved longitudinally by 150 millimeters (5.9 in) in the RS Q3 and by 130 millimeters (5.1 in) in the RS Q3 Sportback**, and the inclination of its divided backrest can be adjusted in seven stages. The luggage compartment thus holds 530 liters (18.7 cu ft); with the backrests folded down the figure rises to 1,525 liters (53.9 cu ft) (Sportback: 1,400 liters (49.4 cu ft)).

Driver-oriented: the interior

The athletic exterior design of the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** is continued in the spacious interior. The entire cockpit is very much designed with the driver in mind – the air-conditioning control unit, the center console, and the MMI touch display are tilted toward the driver by ten degrees. The RS sport leather steering wheel, flattened at the bottom and including newly designed shift paddles, comes with the new “RS MODE” steering wheel button that allows the driver to control two optional RS modes in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The RS-specific displays open automatically in the Audi virtual cockpit plus. Sport seats upholstered with black leather/Alcantara with an RS embossing are fitted as standard. An even sportier variant is available in the form of the RS sport seats in fine nappa leather with an RS-specific honeycomb pattern and integrated head restraints.

RS design packages in red or blue provide color highlights in the interior. The standard ambient lighting package and the multi-color contour/ambient lighting package illuminate the interior of the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** when it is dark.

The architecture of the instrument panel with the MMI touch display and the Audi virtual cockpit in the RS design harmonizes perfectly with the new operating concept. MMI navigation plus, the top-of-the-line system in the infotainment program, offers the same variety of functions as in the large Audi models.

Always up to date: Infotainment and Audi connect

Together with MMI navigation plus, the online services of Audi connect are made available on board at LTE Advanced speed via a permanently installed SIM card. This includes, for example, online traffic information and the online points of interest service, which complements route guidance with photos, opening hours, and user evaluations. Thanks to the inter-connectivity of the Audi fleet, the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** receive and provide information about parking spaces on the roadside, hazard areas, and speed limits, which are detected via the on-board camera and vehicle sensors.

Equipped for all situations: the assist systems

The new RS Q3** and the new RS Q3 Sportback** are equipped with numerous standard comfort and safety systems, including the parking system plus as well as lane departure and lane change warnings. The standard scope in Germany also includes Audi pre sense front as well as the protective measures provided by Audi pre sense basic.

The adaptive cruise assist is a highlight among the optional systems. It takes the burden off the driver during longitudinal and lateral guidance. Ultra-modern systems such as the 360 degree cameras offer assistance with parking and maneuvering. They show the direct surroundings of the car on the MMI display and allow the driver to choose from several perspectives. If, for example, the driver wants to back out of an entrance, the rear cross-traffic assist warns about approaching vehicles that the system classifies as critical.

The Facts

Exterior design

• Compact power packs: SUV and SUV Coupé from Audi Sport GmbH with RS-specific exterior design
• RS Q3: 4,506 millimeters (14.8 ft) long, 1,851 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide, 1,602 millimeters (5.3 ft) high
• RS Q3 Sportback: 4,507 millimeters (14.8 ft) long, 1,851 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide, 1,557 millimeters (5.1 ft) high
• Wide wheelbase: Wheel arches flared by 10 millimeters (0.4 in)
• Gloss black octagon Singleframe with three-dimensional honeycomb structure is positioned lower as compared to the Audi Q3
• 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels
• RS-specific roof edge spoiler and bumpers with rear diffuser
• RS exhaust system with oval tailpipes on both sides
• LED headlights as standard, optional RS-specific matrix LED headlights with smoked lens covers

Engine and drivetrain

• Legendary five-cylinder power: 2.5 TFSI engine with 294 kW (400 PS) and 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft)
• 1-2-4-5-3 – special firing sequence for a unique engine sound
• Modern classic: Has been voted “International Engine of the Year” nine times in a row since 2010
• Draws 17 percent more power from an unchanged displacement of 2,480 cc
• Zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.5 seconds
• Top speed of 280 km/h (174.0 mph) (optional)
• Seven-speed S tronic with short shift times
• quattro permanent all-wheel drive

Suspension

• MacPherson front axle and rear axle as a four-link structure
• Driving characteristics can be adjusted via the dynamic handling system Audi drive select
• New “RS1” and “RS2” drive modes can be customized and saved via the MMI touch display, allowing quick access via “RS MODE” steering wheel button
• 10 millimeters (0.4 in) lower thanks to RS-specific sport suspension
• Option: RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC)
• Precise and direct: Progressive steering with RS-specific tuning
• Stable: Newly developed RS ceramic brake system with colored calipers and large ceramic brake disks measuring 380 mm (15.0 in) at the front and steel disks with a diameter of 310 mm (12.2 in) at the rear

Body

• Rigid and safe: High-tech steels in the body form the backbone of the passenger cell
• Sophisticated soundproofing and aeroacoustics
• Coefficient of drag: 0.35 (Sportback: 0.37)
• Unladen weight: 1,715 kilograms (3,780.9 lb) (Sportback: 1,700 kilograms (3,747.9 lb))

Interior, colors and materials

• Markedly horizontal body line and clear orientation toward the driver
• RS-specific elements for greater sportiness while satisfying the highest demands in terms of comfort
• Flattened at the bottom: RS sport leather steering wheel with newly designed shift paddles
• Sport seats with RS embossing, RS sport seats with an RS-specific honeycomb pattern and integrated head restraints as an option
• Color accents: RS design package in red or blue
• Contour/ambient lighting package for targeted light effects in the dark; adjustable in 30 colors
• Luggage compartment with 530 to 1,525 liters (18.7–53.9 cu ft) (Sportback: 1,400 liters (49.4 cu ft) load capacity

Controls, infotainment and driver assist systems

• Fully digital: MMI touch display (8.8 to 10.1-inch) and Audi virtual cockpit (10.25-inch) with RS-specific design harmonize perfectly with the new operating concept
• Optional: Audi virtual cockpit plus (12.3-inch) with unique RS displays, such as shift light, tire pressure, torque, output, lap times, G forces, and acceleration measurement
• Fully connected: MMI navigation plus and the services of Audi connect
• Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers’ mobile devices
• Top-of-the-line listening pleasure: Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound
• Numerous driver assist systems for more security and greater comfort, e.g. adaptive cruise assist
• Audi pre sense basic and Audi pre sense front, parking system plus, as well as lane departure and lane change warning safety systems are standard in Germany

Exterior Design

The Audi RS Q3** and the Audi RS Q3 Sportback** stand for outstanding performance. This is also reflected in their consistently sporty design. The new SUV and the new SUV Coupé share numerous RS design features while each also illustrating their unique character through many details.

The RS-specific exterior design of the compact powerhouses is based on a thrilling balance: all lines are logically interrelated. When looking at it from the side, this highlights the symmetrical light graphics of the headlights and rear lights. The shoulder line connects them and provides an athletic overall impression with distinct muscles over the wheel arches, which are each flared by 10 millimeters (0.4 in).

The gloss black Singleframe with its three-dimensional honeycomb structure enhances the appearance of the two high-performance compact cars. Its position is lower, and it is inserted directly, i.e. without a frame, into the RS-specific bumper with large lateral air inlets. The RS genes are also apparent in the flat slits above the Singleframe. The striking blades in the bumper, whose shape is reminiscent of a boomerang, are designed exclusively for the new RS Q3.

One family, two characters

The low-slung roof line of the RS Q3** culminates in strong, flat-sloping D-pillars. This provides the high-performance SUV with a pronounced forward thrust even at a standstill. An RS-specific long roof edge spoiler, which also flanks the rear window in the RS Q3** from the side, emphasizes this impression and ensures improved downforce.

With its coupé-like roof line that slopes downward toward the rear and a height of 1,557 millimeters (5.1 ft), the RS Q3 Sportback** is 45 millimeters (1.8 in) lower than the RS Q3**. The rising shoulder line of the Sportback runs lower than that of its sister model and thus also lowers the body’s optical focus. This makes the wheels appear larger and the SUV Coupé seem a little more muscular.

The rear view of the Sportback also appears consistently well-toned. The downward-sloping coupé-like roof line is supported by extremely flat-sloping D-pillars. The low rear window and the roof edge spoiler with a gloss black spoiler lip make the RS Q3 Sportback** appear even wider. The RS Q3 Sportback-specific rear bumper has an even sportier design and makes the SUV Coupé look extremely dynamic.

The new generation of the RS Q3** comes for the first time with a dual-branch RS exhaust system with large oval tailpipes on both sides and chrome-colored trims. This exhaust system sits in an RS-specific bumper with rear diffuser and horizontal blades in gloss black. The blades are designed in matt aluminum as an option.

Expressive and bright: LED headlights

The flat headlights of the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** taper inwards, and form jagged angles on the outer edge. The LED daytime running lights trace a contour that consists of one long segment and two short segments, producing a three-dimensional effect. The compact high-performance SUV and the compact high-performance SUV Coupé are fitted with LED headlights as standard. By shifting the low-beam light, they can implement functions such as cornering light, intersection light, and curve illumination. Three light segments, one long and two short, constitute the signature of the daytime running lights. The rear lights with dynamic turn signals are also designed with LED technology.

Audi offers matrix LED headlights with RS-specific darkened bezels as an option for the RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback. Nine LEDs generate the low beam light and ten more LEDs create the high beam light, which precisely and dynamically illuminates the road. When the camera detects other road users, they are masked out of the light beam in a targeted fashion. In addition to numerous differentiated light functions, the matrix LED headlights also feature front and rear dynamic turn signals.

Something for everyone: Color fan and styling packages

Eight paint colors are available for the new RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback**, including the RS-specific colors Kyalami green and Nardo gray. The standard gloss black styling package adds highlights to blades, window slot trims, roof rails (RS Q3 only), and on the insert in the side sill. Upon request, customers can also obtain these scopes in an aluminum look, as well as a carbon engine cover. In combination with the gloss black styling package, the Audi rings and the RS logos come in gloss black on the front and rear.

Engine

A legendary five-cylinder engine, 294 kW (400 PS) power output, 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) of torque, quattro all-wheel drive (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8.9 – 8.8; combined CO₂ emissions in g/km: 204 – 202): The parameters of the new RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback speak for themselves. The compact powerhouses are thus the sporty top-of-the-line models within the Audi Q3 family.

The five-cylinder engine is a modern classic. The 2.5 TFSI with 294 kW (400 PS) now draws just over 17 percent more power from 2,480 cc of displacement than before. The engine’s maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available over the very broad rev range between 1,950 and 5,850 revolutions per minute. The RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 4.5 seconds. The top speed is regulated at 250 km/h (155.3 mph) or an optional 280 km/h (174.0 mph).

At less than 50 centimeters (19.7 in) in length, the 2.5 TFSI engine is extremely compact and is 26 kg (57.3 lb) lighter than the previous model. Its crankcase is made of aluminum, which alone saves 18 kg (39.7 lb). Elaborate measures reduce internal friction while at the same time increasing power output. The cylinder barrels are plasma-coated; the crankshaft main bearings are six millimeters (0.2 in) smaller in diameter. The crankshaft is hollow bored and is therefore 1 kg (2.2 lb) lighter, while the aluminum pistons have integrated channels for oil cooling. In the short warm-up phase after a cold start, the switchable water pump does not circulate the coolant in the cylinder head – the 2.5 TFSI engine thus reaches its operating temperature more quickly. This lowers the coefficient of friction and reduces fuel consumption. A start/stop system and a recuperation system also contribute to the level of efficiency. In the NEDC cycle, the RS Q3** consumes 8.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (26.4 US mpg) and the RS Q3 Sportback** consumes 8.8 liters of fuel per 100 km/h (26.7 US mpg).

The 2.5 TFSI has won the sought-after “International Engine of the Year Award” nine times.

Optimum power delivery: the dual injection system

The gas exchange of the five-cylinder engine is designed for high throughput. The large turbocharger presses the intake air into the combustion chambers with up to 1.35 bar. The intercooler with its 80 percent efficiency reduces the temperature in order to achieve the highest possible oxygen concentration. Intake and exhaust camshafts can be adjusted as required. On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) changes the duration of valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed at two levels – for moderate use at low and partial throttle as well as for a spontaneous throttle response and increased tractive power at full throttle. To improve the mixture formation, the 2.5 TFSI works with a dual injection system that can inject fuel into the intake tract as well as directly into the combustion chamber. The duration and type of injection can be variably optimized for each engine operating point.

Unique: five-cylinder sound

1-2-4-5-3 – firing alternates between adjacent cylinders and those far apart from one another. The particular firing sequence and the odd number of cylinders make for a very special rhythm and unique engine sound. The basic tone is accompanied by characteristic harmonic frequencies. The engine control unit also contributes indirectly to the unmistakable sound. At high load, the flaps in the exhaust system open for an even fuller sound.

The dual-branch RS exhaust system underscores the characteristic sound of the five-cylinder firing sequence. The optionally available RS sport exhaust system with black tailpipe trims further accentuates the unmistakable sound.

Transmission

In the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback**, the power of the five-cylinder engine is transmitted as standard via a seven-speed S tronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The lower gears of the compact dual-clutch transmission are dynamically short, while the seventh gear has a long ratio to reduce fuel consumption. A heat exchanger conditions the transmission oil; the bevel-gearing to the prop shaft weighs 2 kg (4.4 lbs) less than its predecessor.

The driver can let the seven-speed S tronic operate automatically or can change gear themselves using the selector lever or the steering wheel shift paddles. There is also a choice of two driving programs in automatic mode. In D mode, the engine is optimized for everyday traffic. In S mode, the engine is designed for more agility and the revs are higher. In all cases, gear shifts are performed within hundredths of a second and almost imperceptibly. Launch Control enables starts with optimum traction.

Variable power distribution: the quattro drive

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive combines dynamism and stability. Its central component is the electronically regulated and hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch that is installed on the rear axle in the interest of weight distribution. The multi-plate clutch distributes the drive force to the front and rear axles at lightning speed and as required, using a software tailored specifically to the RS models. Depending on the driving style and coefficient of friction, between 50 and 100 percent of the available drive force can be sent to the rear axle. An electrically driven pump presses the plates in the clutch together with a maximum oil pressure of 40 bar. As soon as the grip on the road is reduced or the driver adopts a more sporty driving style, the clutch can direct some of the drive force to the rear axle when turning into the corner.

Tuned specifically to the RS: stabilization control with two modes

The Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) and the anti-slip control have been tuned specifically to the RS. In addition to the full mode, there is also a sport mode in which the ESC intervenes later. This provides additional driving pleasure and also enables controlled drifting on low-friction road surfaces with optimum framework conditions. If the driver pushes the ESC button for longer than three seconds, the ESC switches off completely to allow particularly sporty handling.

At the limits of dynamic driving performance, the quattro drive works closely together with the wheel-selective torque control. When driving with a sporty style, it brakes both the wheels on the inside of the curve very slightly, thereby increasing the drive torque on the wheels on the outside of the curve with the higher wheel load. The difference in drive forces turns the car into the curve, allowing the car to follow the steering angle precisely. The result: precise, agile and neutral handling.

Body

The measurements of the new RS Q3** are all larger as compared to those of the predecessor model. At 4,506 millimeters (14.8 ft), it is 96 millimeters (3.8 in) longer than its predecessor. Its width has increased by 10 millimeters (0.4 in) to 1,851 millimeters (6.1 ft), and its height has increased by 4 millimeters to 1,602 millimeters (5.3 ft) (without the roof antenna) as compared to the first generation of the RS Q3. In combination with its wheelbase – extended by 77 millimeters (3.0 in) to 2,680 millimeters (8.8 ft) – it is much more spacious than before. Within the segment, it exceeds its competitors in terms of both shoulder room at the front and rear and knee room in the rear compartment.

The new RS Q3 Sportback** is also among the most spacious models in its segment. It is 4,507 mm (14.8 ft) long, 1,557 mm (5.1 ft) tall (without the roof antenna), and 1,851 mm (6.1 ft) wide. The high-performance SUV Coupé is therefore 45 millimeters (1.8 in) flatter than its sister model. The wheelbase of the Sportback also measures 2,680 millimeters (8.8 ft).

Maximum variability: the space concept

The new RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** are designed as fully fledged five-seater models and also offer maximum everyday usability for all their sportiness. As standard, the rear bench, including the center armrest and cup holder, can be moved longitudinally by 150 millimeters (5.9 in) in the RS Q3** and by 130 millimeters (5.1 in) in the RS Q3 Sportback**; the backrest is divided into three sections at a ratio of 40:20:40 and can be tilted in seven increments. Depending on the position of the rear bench and backrests, the luggage compartment holds between 530 liters (18.7 cu ft) and 675 liters (23.8 cu ft); with the backrests folded down, it holds 1,525 liters (53.9 cu ft) (Sportback: 1,400 liters (49.4 cu ft)). Audi also offers an electric tailgate upon request. In conjunction with the convenience key, the driver can open and close it with a foot motion.

A compound of hot-formed steel forms the backbone of the passenger cell in the body of the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback**. The body’s high level of rigidity is a basic requirement for the precise handling, the top-of-the-line manufacturing quality, and the high level of crash safety. Extensive sound insulation and sophisticated aeroacoustics ensure that the interior of the two compact RS models is very quiet. The windshield is made of acoustic glass as standard.

Interior Design

The sporty design of the exterior is continued in the interior of the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback**. The accentuated horizontal lines make the interior appear spacious and roomy.

The sport seats in black leather/Alcantara with RS embossing accentuate the athletic character of the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback**. The optional RS sport seats in fine nappa leather with RS-specific honeycomb pattern and integrated head restraints are celebrating a true premiere in the Q3 family**. Their contrasting stitching comes standard in gloss black and optionally in red or blue.

Entry lighting with Audi Sport projection in the doors welcomes the driver and front passenger. RS Q3/RS logos also adorn the interior on the steering wheel and the illuminated front door sill trims with aluminum inlay. The engine can be started using the optional start-stop button with its red ring. The RS sport leather steering wheel, flattened at the bottom, comes with multifunction buttons that allow the driver to control two optional RS modes in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The RS-specific displays open automatically in the Audi virtual cockpit plus.

Inlays in Aluminum Race, anthracite, optionally in piano finish, black, or carbon, round out the sporty interior. For the first time, the interior can also be finished entirely in black.

Multi-colored: RS design packages and lighting packages

RS design packages in red or blue add colored accents with contrasting stitching on the steering wheel rim, seat belt straps, floor mats, and gearshift lever. The steering wheel and selector lever are designed in Alcantara in this case. With the extended RS design packages, the panels and door armrests are trimmed in red or blue Alcantara.

The standard ambient lighting package and the multi-color contour/ambient lighting package illuminate the interior of the RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** when it is dark. Due to the indirect ambient lighting emitted across the area, the door trims and center tunnel appear to be floating. The precise contour light traces the striking design lines of the interior. In the optional top-of-the-line version, the light can be adjusted to 30 different colors and also illuminates the quattro logo on the front passenger side of the dashboard.

Controls and Display

The architecture of the instrument panel with the Audi virtual cockpit in the RS design harmonizes perfectly with the operating concept. As an option, the driver can choose the larger Audi virtual cockpit plus with 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-forces and acceleration measurements.

Quick and convenient: Free-text search and voice control

Like the entry of a navigation destination, the MMI search is based on entry of free text – via a virtual keypad when the vehicle is stationary or via handwriting recognition. If the driver is looking for a restaurant, for instance, a list of hits appears after just a few letters. The new natural language voice control, which allows freely structured wording, is even more convenient. The dialog manager asks questions if necessary, allows corrections, offers choices, and also defers to the speaker when interrupted. The dialog goes beyond menu boundaries. For example, the user can call a contact from the telephone book and add the address as a destination.

Infotainment & connectivity

MMI navigation plus in the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback** offers the same functions as in the large Audi models. For example, it recognizes the driver’s preferences based on previous journeys, allowing it to generate suitable route suggestions. It also draws on the system’s statistical empirical values of driving times and traffic loads. The route is calculated online on the servers of the map and navigation provider HERE, using real-time data for the traffic situation. If the data connection is lost, MMI navigation plus switches to the on-board routing, which runs in parallel. There are four free updates for the map every year; if desired, they can be uploaded to the car over the air.

Everything is connected: Audi connect and Car-to-X

MMI navigation plus is also joined by the Audi connect services onboard the new RS Q3** and the new RS Q3 Sportback**. They are the perfect addition to the navigation system. Data transfer is based on the LTE Advanced standard in almost all European countries via a
SIM card permanently installed in car, the Audi connect SIM. These services include traffic information online, the point-of-interest search as well as information on parking spaces and filling stations, which appear directly on the navigation map – as necessary, also with dynamic additional information such as prices and availability. Further connect services are online media streaming, online news and Twitter and e-mail inbox access.

A Wi-Fi hotspot for the passengers’ mobile devices completes the Audi connect portfolio. It also supports the 5 GHz band and allows download rates up to 300 Mbit/s and upload speeds of up to 50 Mbit/s. As an option, the customer can add on data packages conveniently from the car.

For its wide-ranging Car-to-X services, the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback** use the fleet’s swarm intelligence: Suitably equipped vehicles report moving into and out of parking spaces so that forecasts on vacant roadside parking spaces appear in many towns and cities. The cars from the swarm also warn each other of hazardous spots such as fog or black ice and report current speed limits.

Sound experience: telephony and listening pleasure

A variety of hardware modules supplement the infotainment portfolio of the RS models, including the Audi phone box. It links the owner’s smartphone to the vehicle’s antenna and charges the phone inductively. A further function called voice-over-LTE helps to connect faster and makes it possible to use high-speed data transfer and high-resolution voice telephony at the same time in digital quality.

The Audi smartphone interface establishes contact with the customers’ iOS and Android smartphones and transfers their Apple CarPlay or Android Auto environment to the MMI display. For the iPhone, this even works wirelessly with MMI navigation plus. There are two USB ports in the center console for connecting smartphones physically. They offer a loading and data function for playing music from a portable media player via the loudspeakers in the car. One of them is compatible with type C with fast transfer rates and a symmetric port for easy connection. Customers can order two optional USB-C ports in the rear for charging devices.

The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound that delivers up to 680 watts provides special listening pleasure. It drive 15 loudspeakers, six of which generate the virtual 3D sound. Four of these are located in the area of the instrument panel, where they use reflections from the windshield. The other two are positioned in each of the D-pillars. An algorithm that Audi developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute adds impressive breadth and depth to the sound. A digital radio tuner completes the hardware of the infotainment program.

Driver assist systems

Numerous assist systems in the new Audi RS Q3** and the new Audi RS Q3 Sportback** increase the levels of safety and comfort both on long journeys and in urban traffic. In Germany, a number of systems are included as standard, while many others are available as an option or as a package.

Safety included: the standard systems

The RS Q3** and RS Q3 Sportback** are equipped with numerous systems as standard. Audi pre sense front provides assistance in the event of danger of collision. The system detects critical situations in front of the car by means of front radar and also registers pedestrians and cyclists in addition to vehicles. It gives the driver a visual, acoustic, and haptic warning and initiates emergency braking in the event of an emergency. This is also when the preventive protection measures of Audi pre sense front come into play. As soon as the vehicle sensors detect an unstable driving condition, the system electrically tightens the front seat belts, closes the windows and the optional sliding roof, and activates the hazard warning lights to warn the cars driving behind. This happens, for example, if the electronic stabilization control (ESC) sensors detect skidding or hard braking.

If the driver has not turned on a turn signal and the car is about to cross a lane marking detected by the front camera, the lane departure warning assists with steering corrections. The lane change warning, which uses two radar sensors directed toward the rear, is also on board in Germany. If the system detects a vehicle located in the blind spot or approaching quickly from the rear, a warning LED is lit in the relevant exterior mirror.

Parking system plus, which also comes standard with the RS Q3** and the RS Q3 Sportback**, assists the driver by outputting acoustic signals and displays in the MMI touchdisplay during parking and maneuvering.

Optional systems: individual or as a package

Adaptive cruise assist is a highlight among the optional systems. It combines the functions of adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and active lane assist, including control to the middle of the lane, and is active up to a speed of 200 km/h (124.3 mph). It assists the driver with longitudinal and lateral guidance, thereby increasing the level of comfort substantially on long journeys in particular. The system is part of the assist package that also includes high-beam assist and emergency assist. The latter detects within system limits whether the driver is inactive and accordingly provides visual, acoustic, and haptic warnings. If this does not prompt a reaction, the system takes control of the car and automatically stops it in its own lane. The hazard warning lights are also activated in this case.