The Audi RS Q3 and the stylish Sportback land with 394 hp and 60 hp in 4.5 seconds

The Audi RS Q3 and the RS Q3 Sportback debut in the form of two types of high performance crossovers for those looking for a warm hatch with a sturdier and higher driving appearance. They will go on sale in Europe in the first quarter of 2020 and there are still no details regarding North American availability.

The power supply of this pair comes from an updated version of Audi's turbocharged five-cylinder 2.5-liter. It is now 394 horsepower (294 kilowatts) and 354 lb-ft (480 Newton-meters) of torque. This is enough for performance crossovers to reach 100 km / h in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km / h (155 mph). As an option, customers can increase the top speed to 280 km / h.

The powertrain is now equipped with an aluminum casing that saves 18 kilograms (39.68 pounds) and a hollow drilled crankshaft that cuts an extra kilogram (2.205 pounds). If buyers want a more aggressive sound, an RS Sport exhaust is optional and includes a black exhaust pad.

Power goes through a seven-speed gearbox to an all-wheel drive system. The standard suspension layout is 10 mm (0.39 inches) lower than standard Sportback Q3 and Q3. Dynamic Chassis Control adaptive dampers are an option for those who want something more sophisticated. The six-piston brake calipers and steel discs come from the factory, but customers can switch to ceramic discs with monobloc aluminum calipers.

The RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback are visually distinguished by a matching color grille with a gloss black mesh. A revised front fascia includes larger entrances at the corners and blade-shaped accents on each side. At the rear, the models are equipped with a gloss black roof spoiler and two large oval shaped exhaust pipes out of the bumper. Twenty-inch wheels come standard, but 21-inch pieces are also available.

The body is available in two exclusive colors: the very bright Kyalami green and the Nardo gray. An optional set modifies the glossy black accents from the outside for an aluminum finish.

The interior features sports seats combining black Nappa leather and Alcantara. If the occupants want a splash of color, contrasting red or blue stitching is available. For more visual distinction, the design sets add red or blue accents to the steering wheel rim, seat belts, mats and shifter. A more optional virtual cockpit enlarges the display of the digital instrument cluster.