Yahoo Finance Audi’s First SQ3 Is Nearing Production
What It Is: Meet the Audi SQ3, the sporty, up-level version of Audi's second-gen Q3 crossover, which we expect to be unveiled in late July. The SQ3 will be the first performance derivative of the Q3, virtually matching the power output of the outgoing not-for-America RS Q3 when it was first launched. Visually, it will come with the trademark aggressive S styling treatment and four exhaust outlets. At a later point, there will be another RS Q3 sporting a new iteration of Audi’s turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five that will make at least 400 horsepower.
Why It Matters: Audi needs good news and successful products to offset the credibility crisis associated with the Volkswagen Group diesel scandal. The SQ3 is exactly where the brand wants to be: Young, aggressive, and design-oriented. Fitted with a 2.0-liter turbo four, it will bring spirited performance to a fast-growing segment.
Platform: The Audi SQ3, like the base-model Q3, will ride on the VW Group's MQB modular-transverse platform that is shared with a wide range of vehicles, from the small VW Polo to the Atlas SUV. The SQ3 should remain close in size to the current model. The suspension will be tuned aggressively for minimum roll and sporty handling characteristics.
Powertrain: The Audi SQ3 will be fitted with the same EA888 turbocharged 2.0-liter four that powers the Audi S3 and the Volkswagen Golf R. Rated at around 300 horsepower, it is expected to deliver zero-to-60-mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds with a top speed governed to 155 mph. The engine will be solely mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, and Quattro all-wheel drive will be standard.
Competition: BMW X2, Mercedes-AMG GLA45.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The Audi SQ3 will likely come to the United States market in 2019 as a 2020 model; figure on prices to start in the $45K range.
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