Audi RS Q3 Performance SUV and Sportback Removed from Sale in the UK

Production Capacity Fulfilled, No Timeline for Return

The Audi RS Q3 performance SUV and its Sportback variant have been taken off sale in the UK, with no indication of when they will be available again. According to a spokesperson for Audi UK, the models have been closed for ordering due to the current production capacity being filled until 2024.

Strong Demand and Sales Figures

In the first nine months of 2023, Audi sold 95 units of the regular RS Q3 and 191 units of the RS Q3 Sportback in the UK. The demand for these models has remained high, leading to the fulfillment of existing production capacity.

It is uncertain whether the RS Q3 models will be reintroduced for sale in 2024 once the current year’s orders have been fulfilled.

Future Plans for Audi’s SUV Line-up

Audi is preparing to launch its new Q3 in 2025, which has been spotted testing with design elements inspired by the Q6 E-tron. This will be followed by an electric replacement for the RS Q3 as part of Audi’s plan to transition its RS line-up to electric vehicles by 2026. The electric variant will likely be named RS Q4 and offer enhanced performance.

Unique Engine Offering

The current RS Q3 is powered by Audi’s renowned 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine. Prior to its removal from sale, it was one of only two cars in the UK equipped with this engine. The other model is the RS3 Saloon, which also temporarily went off sale earlier this year.

Alternative Options

With the RS Q3 no longer available, the most powerful variant of the Q3 in the UK is now the Q3 TFSIe hybrid. This model features a 241bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, offering a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds. The starting price for this model is £51,500, which is £13,460 less than the RS Q3 before it was removed from sale.

Customers can still order the range-topping RS Q8 SUV and the RS3 Saloon, which are part of Audi’s Audi Sport SUV line-up.