The Audi RS Q3 Sportback is a fast SUV with a distinctive five-cylinder petrol engine and a lovely interior. The lower, lighter hatchback RS 3 will be even more fun to drive, mind you.A couple of things help the Audi RS Q3 Sportback stand out amongst performance SUVs – its sharp looks and that characterful five-cylinder engine. It just sounds better than the rest.
This latest addition to Audi Sport’s growing stable of RS models is also one part of a dual-pronged attack on the small performance SUV market. While the RS Q3 should appease those wanting a little extra headroom for rear passengers, the Sportback earns extra style points with its sloping rear end. The Sportback delivers the kind of assured handling we associate with the RS range, letting you make rapid point-to-point progress while remaining predictable at all times, if lacking in true driver engagement. The progressive steering rack doesn’t give much sense of what the front tyres are doing through corners, and there’s little playfulness to be found from the rear end when pushed. On the smoothest roads and the optional adaptive dampers set to their most comfortable, the Sportback is just about relaxed enough, but still jostles on rougher surfaces. Dynamic mode is a lot more brittle, picking up even the smallest of abrasions. Ride refinement is merely average for the class, though our test drive didn’t provide an opportunity to see what effect smaller 20in alloy wheels would have on comfort.
Audi's cheeky little SUV offers exactly what we expected from the tech-loving German automaker in a handsome and mostly practical package.
Pros Sharp styling, plentiful tech features, spunky driving demeanor.
Cons Tight rear quarters, noticeable turbo lag, a few cheap interior materials.
The 2020 BMW X4 offers powerful engine performance, lithe handling, and an upscale cabin with user-friendly features, but it trails the competition in terms of interior space. This luxury compact SUV does not have an overall score or ranking because it hasn’t been fully crash tested.
Pros Enjoyable ride and handling Potent turbocharged engines User-friendly infotainment system Handsome interior
Cons Snug rear headroom Below-average cargo capacity
Fresh off its 2019 redesign, the X4 carries over into 2020 with minimal changes. The biggest news is that the twin-turbo six-cylinder of the M40i gets a serious boost in power, from 355 to 382. Base models add BMW's Comfort Access system as standard equipment. This system allows you to access the vehicle without removing the key fob from your pocket.
Pros Snazzy exterior design, good fuel economy, entertaining driving dynamics from both trim levels.
Cons Stingy cargo capacity relative to that of rival crossovers, slim selection of standard driver-assistance features, Android Auto is conspicuously absent.
No significant changes for 2020.Part of the second X4 generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Both available engines are smooth, powerful and fuel-efficient Easy personalization thanks to abundant standard and optional features Impressive handling for an SUV
Cons Sloping roofline compromises rear headroom and cargo space Android Auto is not available Pricey when fully optioned
