Originally, the camouflaged coupe-like SUV was planned to arrive wearing a Q4 nameplate. This, however, is not going to happen. Instead, the German automaker will use the name for its battery-electric model that had been previewed in Geneva as the Q4 e-tron concept. So, what’s going on with the non-electric coupe-like compact crossover, we’ve just caught testing?
Well, as far as we’ve managed to find out when the testing model hits production lines, it will become a 2020 Audi Q3 Sportback. Taking into account that the crossover shares pretty much everything with the new Q3, the name seems quite logical don’t you think? Meaning, the most important difference between these two will be exactly the sporty back of the newcomer. In addition to the more sloped rooflines, the coupe-like SUV appears to be lower than the new Q3. Other exterior details including headlights, taillights, bumpers, and grille are almost identical. We say “almost” because the Sportback version appears to have a slightly wider grille.
Mechanically, the 2020 Audi Q3 Sportback will mirror the latest Q3. The coupe SUV will use VW Group’s modular MQB platform that employs either front- or all-wheel drive. Just like the regular sibling, the Sportback model will use a range of inline-4 options under the hood. Though, the U.S.-specs model will be limited to a 252-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. There’s no manual gearbox any longer in North America, which means that the crossover comes paired strictly with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Audi is working on the high-performance model as well. This one will be called the RS Q3 Sportback and will use a turbocharged inline-5 mill that will be capable of delivering over 400 horsepower. This one will be paired with Quatro all-wheel-drive and the company’s new 8-speed dual-clutch ‘box.
The coupe-like compact SUV will be introduced before the end of this year. Since it aims the models like the BMW X2, Jaguar E-Pace, Lexus UX and Mercedes-Benz GLA, the all-new Audi Q3 Sportback should feature the similar price.
