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.
For 2019, the QX30 merely adds new option packages for the Luxe model. These include the Navigation package with Infiniti's InTouch services that allow users to unlock and lock the doors and schedule maintenance remotely using a smartphone app, and the 19-inch Wheel package that adds—you guessed it—19-inch Gun Metallic wheels rolling on run-flat summer tires. Otherwise, the QX30 lineup carries over unchanged.
Pros Concept-car styling, nicely crafted interior, Sport model truly feels sporty.
Cons Subpar fuel economy, cramped cabin, fully loaded versions are pricey.
The 2019 INFINITI QX30 comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.Forward collision mitigation now standard on all trims.Updated trim level names: Pure, Luxe, Sport and Essential.Panoramic sunroof now standard on Luxe and above.
PROS Strong acceleration and sharp handling High-quality interior materials Powerful and confident brakes Interior controls are easy to locate and use
CONS Less usable cargo space than its competitors Interior quarters are cramped, especially for rear passengers Drive modes are either laggy or frenetic Ride comfort is compromised by the sporty suspension
The 2019 Infiniti QX30 stands out with style and sprightliness but makes compromises in interior space.
Pros Swoopy style Upscale interior Spry handling Available all-wheel drive
Cons Limited interior space Inconsistent throttle Style over practicality Expensive
