(February 20, 2013) The term sport utility vehicle has rarely been more applicable than applied to the new Audi RS Q3, the first ever Audi SUV to be handed over to the specialists at Audi high performance subsidiary quattro GmbH for the full, no-holds-barred RS transformation.

One of the Audi stand stars at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show, the new 306-horsepower, 155 mph Q3 flagship is due to open for UK ordering in the summer ahead of first deliveries in late 2013.

“The RS Q3 transfers the performance philosophy of Audi to the compact SUV segment, thereby creating a new performance class,” says Franciscus van Meel, managing director of quattro GmbH. “In addition to the RS 5 Cabriolet, RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback, the RS Q3 is the fourth RS model that we are launching in 2013. The RS family is growing to eight members — more than ever.”

At the heart of this RS pioneer is the characterful 2.5-liter TFSI engine familiar from the TT RS and RS 3 Sportback, linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. From 2,480 cc of engine displacement, the turbocharged direct-injection unit produces its 306 horsepower peak at between 5,200 and 6,700 rpm, and maximum torque of 309 lb-ft between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm — values that are unparalleled in this class.

These figures translate into a 0-62mph sprint time of just 5.5 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.

For the first time, the already highly efficient five-cylinder engine is also complemented by a standard start-stop system which, along with a regulated oil pump that only supplies lubricant when needed, contributes to fuel economy that sets a new precedent for an RS model.

The 1-2-4-5-3 ignition sequence, supported by the geometry of the air induction and exhaust systems, also ensures that the spirit of the legendary five-cylinder quattros of the 1980s lives on in the soundtrack played out by this state-of-the art performance SUV.