Audi RS Q3 Performance revealed

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Audi has released details and pictures of a new, hotter version of its range topping crossover, the RS Q3.

Now taking on the RS Q3 "Performance" moniker, it uses the same 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbocharged engine as the standard RS Q3, albeit with the wick turned up to the tune of 27bhp, making for a total output of 362bhp and the most powerful Q3 ever. Quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox come as standard.

All-in-all, it's capable of 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 167mph – 0.4 seconds quicker to 62mph than the lesser non-Performance model and on par with a Porsche Panamera GTS, notes Top Gear.

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There are one or two subtle design tweaks to distinguish it from the standard RS Q3. New titanium matte detailing appears on several exterior appendages, such as the grille, air-inlet duct and roof rails, and it gains new 20ins alloy wheels housing brakes shod with red calipers. Inside, there's new sports seats, and plenty of "RS"-daubed fixtures.

The car will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March, but Audi has already announced prices and delivery dates. It will go on sale from £49,175 in the UK, a £3,365 premium over the non-Performance model, with first deliveries in the spring.

Being a chunky mini-SUV design spun from the same platform that underpins many of the Volkswagen group's family hatchbacks, the thought of such performance in a crossover package is easy to baulk at. But Evo says, "like them or not, crossovers – and the performance versions they inevitably spawn – are here to stay".

Other manufacturers have expanded on the crossover bandwagon with suitably rapid versions, too. Mercedes make the rival GLA 45 AMG with 375 bhp and even Mini now makes a John Cooper Works fettled version of its Countryman.

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