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.
TRD Pro has new Fox shock absorbers, new skid plate and roof rack, and standard sunroof and JBL sound system.New Limited Nightshade Edition with black-out color scheme.The 2019 Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV whose hardware, ground clearance and cargo storage make it perfect for off-road adventures. Like many Toyotas, the 4Runner comes in just a handful of trim levels. These trim levels have few, if any, options, making the selection process a little easier.
PROS Off-road capability few other competitors can match Variety of configurations to suit many buyers and price points Versatile cargo area, especially with optional slide-out floor
CONS Choppy ride quality compared with more modern crossovers Lacks the latest driver safety aids V6 engine is not particularly fuel-efficient Tall step-in height makes for ungraceful entry and exit
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner ranked #19 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Toyota 4Runner has a score of 7.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 55 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Ample cargo space Excellent off-roading abilities
Cons Aging interior design Below-average fuel economy Stiff ride quality Small infotainment screen
The dated but charming 2019 Toyota 4Runner is a throwback to ‘90s-era SUVs.
Pros Superb off road TRD Pro’s plush ride Old-school charm Power rear window
Cons Not a great commuter Lackadaisical ride and handling Subpar safety scores Lacks some important features
