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 Mercedes-Benz GLA merges hatchback size with crossover functionality and luxury appointments, with better-than-average results.
Pros Zippy to drive Nimble handling Practical hatchback shape AMG GLA45 is downright sporty
Cons Cramped rear seats Interior doesn't impress So-so visibility AMG gets expensive with a quickness
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class ranked #5 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Engaging handling User-friendly features
Cons So-so acceleration with base engine Unforgiving ride Some low-rent interior trim Small back seat and trunk
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.
Pros One of the most entertaining crossovers in the class Returns respectable mileage considering its performance High clearance and optional all-wheel drive lend some all-weather capability Long list of available tech and safety features on the AMG GLA 45
Cons Firm ride quality can grow tiresome on rough roads Automatic transmission operates sluggishly in stop-and-go situations Not much legroom, headroom or cargo room Road and wind noise could be better tamped down
