Audi RS Q3 Performance revealed

Audi is infusing even more power in the RS Q3 by launching a “performance” version packing no less than 367 horsepower. Paired up with a seven-speed S Tronic gearbox that Audi claims “has also been rigorously tuned for sportiness”, 62mph arrives in a blistering 4.4 seconds and the top speed is a limited 167mph.

RS sport suspension plus with damper control is also available as an option and that will let owners push the car’s parameters further still or set everything up for ultimate comfort on those days when the whole family’s travelling together.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system smoothly delivers the engine’s power to the road via a hydraulically actuated, electronically controlled multi-plate clutch.

The Audi RS Q3 Performance makes its public debut at the Geneva auto show in March and goes on sale in Europe soon thereafter.

The standard automatic engine stop/start and energy recuperation systems are said to help the RS Q3 to a NEDC fuel consumption figure of 8.6L/100km. Audi hasn’t revealed whether its newest RS-badged model will be offered on our shores.

On the inside the RS Q3 Performance can be ordered with optional RS Performance seats in black and blue.

RS-specific 20-inch “performance exclusive” alloy wheels with a matt titanium finish which complements the exterior detailing are standard, and red calipers bearing the RS logo are visible within them.

Inside the cabin, the RS Q3 Performance has grey-faced instruments, contrasting blue stitching in the leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear lever and centre armrest and blue-tinted carbon fibre dash inlays. It also has a slightly revised body with a modified front bumper hosting larger air inlets, while the rear bumper is home to a prominent diffuser.