What's this then?
This is the new Audi RS Q3 and its more coupe-like brother, the RS Q3 Sportback.
What? A hot SUV? Surely not...
Oh yes, and this one is seriously hot. It's packing the 400hp, 480Nm of torque 2.5-litre inline-five cylinder engine from the RS 3, only this time it's lighter (by 26kg compared to the older Q3's engine), has lower friction and is more efficient.
Economical, then?
Not so much. Think around 35mpg and CO2 emissions of 203g/km. Fast, though - 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds. You can thank the quattro four-wheel drive for that.
What else is new?
Lower sports suspension (with optional Dynamic Chassis Control that includes trick dampers) and a nifty bodykit that includes a more aggressive grille, deeper bumpers, and paint options such as Kyalami Green and Nardo Grey.
What about the cabin?
Still practical (there's a 530-litre boot) but with some RS add-ons, such as big bucket seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. Oh, and if you go for the optional digital instruments, you get change-up lights for the S tronic flappy-paddle gearbox.
When can I have one?
You can order one in October, and deliveries should start before the end of the year.
Neil Briscoe - 27 Sep 2019