Audi RS Q3 a residual winner 29 | 10 | 2013
EVEN BEFORE IT enters Audi dealerships across Scotland, the new 310PS Audi RS Q3 is grabbing headlines. The £43,000 is predicted by leading trade guide, CAP Monitor, to retain 52% residual value based on three-year/60,000-mile usage.
It's a notable achievement for Audi's first-ever RS SUV: overall, the Porsche Cayman is the only car currently on UK sale which holds its value more effectively according to CAP Monitor.
“All Audi models are characterised by strong residual values, but the RS Q3 sets a particularly high benchmark," Paul Sansom, Audi head of sales, said.
"This prediction not only reflects the perceived quality, reliability and desirability of the Q3 range, but also the respect the RS badge commands, particularly among UK buyers.
"These factors, combined with the inherent strength of the Audi brand, make the Q3 flagship one of the most compelling propositions not only in SUV terms but in the UK performance car market as a whole.”
Related: Order books open for new Audi A8
The new RS Q3 is powered by a 310PS, 2.5-litre, five-cylinder TFSI engine linked to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission, ensuring the car covers the 0-62mph sprint in just 5.2 seconds and carries on to a top speed — electronically limited — to 155mph. Audi says it's also capable of 32.1mpg, and emits 206g/km CO2.
Fitted with Audi's four-wheel drive quattro system as standard, the range-topping Q3 also sits on RS-specific sports suspension and 20in Twin-spoke V-design alloy wheels.
Inside the cabin, the RS theme is continued by the instrument cluster with its grey gauges overlaid with white scales and red needles, heated and Fine Nappa leather-upholstered front sports seats embossed with RS Q3 logos, a flat-bottomed RS multi-function sports steering wheel complemented by aluminium race inlays and bright aluminium pedals.
The Driver’s Information System also includes additional boost pressure, oil temperature and lap timer modes.
In addition to the RS-specific touches, standard equipment also includes the Audi parking system plus, light and rain sensors, the Audi sound system with 10 loudspeakers incorporating Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection, a Bluetooth phone interface, xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps and LED tail lights which have a dark red tint when they are not lit.
The new Audi RS Q3 is available to order now from Scottish dealerships.
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Jim McGill