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Audi RS Adds Spice TO Q3 Range And Hyundai Gets Xtra Active

2020 Audi RS Q3 Sportback

Audi’s performance badge, RS, has been added to the Q3 range, as has the model’s first Sportback. Two of the most powerful Q3 derivatives have arrived in Australia to redefine the premium compact SUV segment: the all-new Audi RS Q3 and first-ever RS Q3 Sportback. Powered by a 294kW five cylinder with turbo, the pair are priced from $89,900 for the RS Q3 and $92,900 for the RS Q3 Sportback. Peak torque is spot on for the compact SUV, with 480Nm on tap and belting RS Q3 to 100kmh in 4.5 seconds. Audi’s fabled quattro AWD underpins both models via a seven speed S-tronic auto.

There will be little to ask for in the RS Q3, as 21 inch wheels, the RS Sport exhaust, a pair of RS bespoke drive modes, and an RS Sport suspension system are standard. Damper control, wheel-selective torque control, and a progressive steering ratio are also standard. Visual spice comes from a rejigged three dimensional looking grille, a bespoke blackout package, metallic paint, and matrix-LED headlights with RS specific surrounds for the indicators.

Passengers will sit in Nappa leather seats with honeycomb stitching, and stay warm or cool via three zone climate control. Cargo space has 40:20:40 split fold flexibility on sliding second row seats. Safety has a 360 degree camera, lane departure, rear cross traffic alert, and adaptive cruise plus AEB. Tech levels come in with an RS menu on a 12.3 inch screen for the virtual cockpit, a B&O 680W sound system pound tunes through 15 speakers, a wireless charge pad and smart app compatibility. 2 USB ports for both front and rear seat passengers allow charging on the go along with Audi connect plus services.

Buyers can select eight exterior colours, a matt aluminuim style package, a RS extended design package, and two service plan packages. There are three years or five years, and priced at $2,320 or $3,420.

“The all-new RS Q3 range is unique in its segment, combining its award-winning engine with exceptional design and incredible performance. The arrival of the first-ever RS Q3 Sportback extends on Audi’s high-performance portfolio range and debuts as the first vehicle to be offered within the compact SUV segment – an entirely new segment of vehicles that we are delighted to offer our customers.” said Paul Sansom, Managing Director at Audi Australia.

Deliveries start from July 24 and orders can be placed online via audi.com.au

2020 Audi RS Q3 Sportback

Hyundai’s popular Santa Fe has been given some extra oomph with the addition of the Active X. Powered by a 3.5L petrol V6 or torquey 2.2L diesel, it finds a home between the entry level Active and mid-spec Elite. Transmission is an eight speed auto driving the front wheels in the petrol, and all corners for the diesel. Pricing starts from $47,020 plus on-roads for the petrol and $50,050 plus on-roads for the diesel. Premium paint is $695, and buyers can specify for the Active X a dark beige interior at $295.
Standard features are extensive: 18 inch alloys underpin the Active X, with extra safety from front parking sensors incorporated into the standard Safety Sense system. Comfort comes from leather appointed seats, dual-zone climate control (with auto de-fog), rain sensing wipers, and cooling inside the glovebox. Puddle lamps and courtesy lights add both safety at night and visual appeal, and handy tech from folding mirrors and Smart Key access.

Exterior colours are seven, with the interior trim having a premium finish dashboard, fabric A-pillar covers and melange knit headlining. Black is also available for the interior as an option. extra value comes from a tyre pressure monitoring system, smart app compatibility, privacy glass for the rear occupants, and Smart Cruise Control with auto stop/start.
“Santa Fe Active X expands our award-winning family vehicle range, offering customers desirable features and technology at a price point that makes it unique in the large SUV market,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Operating Officer, John Kett.

Capped price servicing applies to a 12 month or 15K drive cycle, and is $330 for the petrol for years 1,2, and 5, with $390 for years 3 and 4. The diesel is $435 for all years except year 4 at $499. The warranty is five years and unlimited kilometres. Roadside assistance is available for the first 12 months and when servicing with Hyundai, customers will also receive a 10 Year Sat Nav Update Plan, a Roadside Support Plan for up to 10 years and more.

Contact Hyundai Australia for availability and to book a test drive.