RSQ3 Sportback Keeps Audi's Five-Cylinder Tradition Going

Sloping roofline RS Q3

Audi's second-generation RS Q3 was given a new lease on life with the brand's legendary five-cylinder engine configuration. But beyond powertrain, it also debuts with a new body style, as Audi adds sloping roofline structure to its RS Q3, with a Sportback variant. 

Slicker profile

Viewed side-on, the Sportback version clearly has a different profile than the standard RS Q3. Both the roofline and tailgate are unique structures, and the RS Q3 Sportback is 1.8-inches lower, thanks to its reshaped roof. 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

Matrix LEDs up front

The RS Q3 Sportback features Audi's latest LED headlight tech with sequencing turn-signals and Matrix illumination. Bumpers and air ducts are both RS-specification, as one would expect. 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

Stronger stance

Audi's RS Q3 Sportback rolls on 21-inch alloy wheels that sit within flared fender arches. The car also has a more defined shoulder line than a conventional RS Q3, which gifts it a more defined stance and better road presence. 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

The iconic in-line five

Look beyond the red engine cover details and you'll discover the real reason why RS Q3 is so revered. Audi performance vehicles have always been linked with the five-cylinder engine configuration and this new Sportback version is no different. It is powered by the latest evolution of Audi's 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, which boasts 394hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

Booming five-cylinder soundtrack

The RS Q3 now features large ovoid exhaust ends at each corner of the bumper. A huge aspect of the RS Q3's driver appeal will be its unique sound signature. As the only five-cylinder performance SUV, there is nothing that sounds remotely like an RS Q3. And the Sportback version has active exhaust valving too, which adds a few notes of five-cylinder burble when required. 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

Clean cockpit design

From behind the helm, there is no difference between the normal RS Q3 and this new Sportback variant. Both feature Audi's vaunted ergonomics and interior design. The automaker has chosen to retain some physical buttons for HVAC and infotainment functions on the RS Q3, instead of the fully digital interface present in most current Audis. However, this is a welcome aspect in that you can tweak settings at a red light instead of hunting through menus feverishly. And of course, there is a g-meter... 

>>Join the conversation about the RSQ3 Sportback right here in the AudiWorld Forum.

A great way for the five-cylinder to live on

The Sportback offers Audi fans something different when considering a compact high-performance SUV. It has a striking coupe-like appearance and a lower roofline than the standard RS Q3. That provides the advantage of slightly better agility, due to a lower center of gravity. In terms of ultimate straight-line performance, the RS Q3 is a compelling vehicle. It will run 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds, and of course, there is that brilliant five-cylinder exhaust note at WOT too.  

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.