Audi RS Q3 Concept is a 360-HP High-Riding Sports Car

Revealed ahead of its 2012 Auto China in Beijing debut is the Audi RS Q3 Concept boasting 360-hp from the same 2.5-liter TFSI engine that powers the TT-RS.

The German automaker’s Q3 concept has one goal: “It interprets the character of the compact SUV in a very special way – systematically dynamic.” The RS Q3 has been lowered almost an inch and widened, showing off the potential of the Q3 in an all new fashion.

The matte Ordos Blue finish on the exterior has been contrasted with brushed and polished aluminum trim frames while the single-frame black radiator grille undoubtedly resembles Audi styling. But it’s not your run-of-the-mill Q3 grille; Audi has slightly offset they honeycombs to give it a unique, three-dimensional effect. The headlights are slightly tinted while the carbon-fiber mirror covers are a nice touch.

The more aggressive front bumper sports carbon fiber components, including the front lip. The rear gets a similar tinted treatment on the taillights while the diffuser houses two large elliptical exhaust tips, typical of the RS style.

On the inside, the black and blue theme continues with plenty of carbon fiber and Fine Nappa leather. Dark blue Alcantara was used on the seats to contrast the rest of the black leather throughout the interior.

Most interesting is the 2.5-liter five-cylinder powerplant that boasts 360-hp thanks to a turbocharger. According to Audi, the RS Q3 hits 62-mph in just 5.2 seconds, very impressive for a compact SUV. Mated to a seven-speed S tronic transmission, the 2.5-liter TFSI powerplant also features Audi’s coveted quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Rounding off the concept is a set of 20-inch wheels paired to 255/30/20 tires.

This is definitely one of those concepts we hope Audi makes a reality – a high-performance compact SUV certainly has a place in this world.