The performance-oriented 5-cylinder Audi SUV has officially been with us for a decade. To mark this momentous anniversary, the firm is offering a limited 2023 RS Q3 Edition 10 Years with only 555 models anticipated for production. Unfortunately, none will make it to South Africa.
Updates to the model are purely aesthetic, with the turbocharged 2,5-litre 5-cylinder motor still delivering the same 294 kW and 480 N.m from before. The demented diminutive V10 sounds from the motor are channelled to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic gearbox which houses optional carbon ceramic brakes. This means the model is good to sprint to 100 km/h in a brisk 4,5 seconds and onto its governed 250 km/h top speed. It is still an SUV after all.
GROUP TEST: Mini JCW Countryman and Audi RS Q3 Sportback
The model in question here; the RS Q3 Edition 10 Years comes with a pricetag €5 990 (R105 000) more than the base model, so what exactly has changed? Plenty of black trim now lines the model. It is also available in an exclusive paint job titled Chronos Gray metallic. Another lick of paint can be chosen; Dew Silver, one that is familiar to the rest of the Audi lineup.
The black trim constitutes most of the appearance package. The exterior includes 21-inch double-spoke wheels which are wrapped in 225/35 tyres. Concealed within are the aforementioned optional carbon ceramic brakes with grey calipers as standard or the same component finished in red or blue as an option.
On the purely aesthetic side of things, the RS Q3 Edition 10 Years boasts darkened LED headlights, blacked window trim, side mirrors and diffuser insert. The infamous four-ring logo is also darkened to further add to the ominous look with its glossy black finish.
Moving into the cabin, the German automaker has given the model RS bucket seats with matte carbon seatback covers, not something you will find in the regular 5-cylinder SUV. Continuing the theme further is a black leather Dinamica combination on the seats and other interior surfaces. Copper stitching lines the dark aesthetic while the 555 number of anticipated models planned for production is placed on the display.
The limited edition model will be available for order from Germany at the end of the month with models being exported globally. Sadly, Audi South Africa confirmed that the RS Q3 Edition 10 Years will not be arriving on our local shores.