Seems like Audi was forced to reveal everything about their first RS model in the Q series, the RS Q3, after a few pictures leaked to the web. Audi, through Franciscus van Meel, Managing Director of quattro GmbH, even says they created "a new performance class" and that it combines "outstanding everyday practicality with dynamic driving performance".
And let us start with the performance part. The RS Q3, like i said a few hours ago, has the five-cylinder turbocharged 2.5 TFSI but with 310hp (228kW) at 5200 to 6700rpm and has its maximum torque of 420Nm (310lb/ft) available between 1500 and 5200rpm.
To help deliver that power to the wheels, Audi mated the engine to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox which in turn is connected to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.
The small SUV comes with a Launch Control system that allows for an acceleration from a standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in just 5.5 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 250km/h (155mph). But with all that power in such a big vehicle (1730kg or 3814lb) one would suppose the car is like a drunk Irishman. Well, we are wrong. Its fuel consumption average just 8.8l/100km (26.73 US mpg) and emits only 206 grams CO2 per km (331.52 g/mile).
With all this power Audi had to improve the braking system, which now has internally ventilated and perforated brake discs measuring 365 mm (14.37 in) that are clearly seen through the standard 19 inch wheels or the optional 20 inch. Another part that had an upgrade was the suspensions which is now lower by 25mm (0.98 in).
Besides the obvious new exterior changes like the RS bumpers, wheels, rear spoiler, and high-gloss black honeycomb front grille, the interior had some changes which include an instrument cluster with gray gauges, white scales and red pointers, contrasting stitching in rock gray, and the MMI and driver information system.
Deliveries start in fall 2013 for a base price of €54.600 ($73.250) in Germany. See the rest of the gallery here.
