For quite some time, it was believed that the upcoming Audi RS Q3 would be powered by the exact same 2.5-liter five-cylinder used in the RS3 Sportback and RS3 Sedan.
However, AutoBild now contradicts those reports, claiming that the sports subcompact crossover will get no less than 420 PS (414 hp / 309 kW). That’s 20 PS (20 hp / 15 kW) more than the most powerful current iteration of this engine.
The German magazine’s report doesn’t quote any official source, so we’ll have to take it with a grain of salt for now. Nevertheless, it might just be that the new RS Q3 will indeed get more power than expected, given that the next Mercedes-AMG GLA 45’s 2.0-liter four-pot will probably produce in excess of 400 PS (394 hp / 294 kW).
In addition to the impressive output, dual-clutch automatic gearbox, Quattro all-wheel drive and the necessary chassis updates, the 2020 RS Q3 will also get an exterior makeover. Compared to the non-RS versions, it will arrive with larger air intakes in the front bumper, wider fenders, roof spoiler and diffuser that’s incorporating the quad exhaust pipes.
Inside, users will find sporty seats as standard, whereas bucket seats will be optional. Contrast stitching, carbon and metal trim, and the usual RS badges should round up the list of upgrades in the cabin.
Audi is thought to launch the new RS Q3 in early 2019, and it’s possible that this will happen at the Geneva Motor Show in March.