2016 Audi RSQ3

This example of the RSQ3 was initially supplied to the Japanese home market being first registered there in late 2016. Being a 2016 model year car, power had now increased to a round 250KW or 335 bhp. This gave the 2016 RSQ3 a quoted performance of 0-100 km (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.

Not too much is known of this car’s Japanese life other than it was very lightly used covering under 18,000 miles in its first eight years and being very well cared for. With a number of economic factors mitigating against long-term car ownership in Japan, this example like many made for an excellent export prospect. And, so, the RSQ3 made its way to the UK in March 2024.

As is often the case, with Japanese specified cars, this RSQ3 comes with a great specification featuring a number of popular and valuable extras. These include the Bose 465-watt sound system with 14 speakers, fine Nappa leather upholstery in the luxurious stitched diamond pattern and 20-inch 5-arm rotor style wheels in a matt black and gloss turned finish.

The RSQ3 was made available in a select palette of just eight sports orientated colours. In this case the RSQ3 presents in Mythos black metallic paintwork. This exhibits a pleasingly high metallic flake content and appears commensurate with the car’s low mileage and salt-free Japanese past. The pristine black livery is subtly lifted by the matt finished, brushed aluminium-look trim pieces. These include the chunky aerodynamic roof bars, window surrounds and wing mirror backs.

To further differentiate this range topping, sporting Q3 the RS wears what Audi call the “Singleframe” front end. This incorporates a radiator grille with honeycomb grid in gloss black and one-piece trim frame in a matt aluminium look. The deep chin spoiler encompasses a smaller honeycomb design with the iconic “Quattro” script picked out in silver relief. Other RS specific touches include special badging, a body-coloured roof edge spoiler and gloss black rear diffuser insert.

Those sublime, optional 20-inch 5-arm rotor style wheels fit the arches amply and are finished in matt black with diamond cut accents. They present very well with no notable dents, dings or kerb rash in evidence. These are fitted with a matching set of quality Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres in a 255/35 configuration. These are all date stamped from 2021. The architecture of the wheels allows for a clear view of the large, red gloss finished callipers with RS branding on the fronts.

The cabin of the RSQ3 maintains the ample sporting ques appropriate to a 335bhp, 155mph capable Quattro equipped SUV. This is not at the expense of the luxurious and fastidiously engineered interiors that Audi are known for, however.

The sporting elements include the carbon fibre style accents, the flat-bottomed perforated leather steering wheel and the stainless-steel timed pedals and alloy RSQ3 sill mounted kick plates. The luxury ambiance is well and truly taken care of by the optional Nappa leather sports seats. These are finished in black and stitched into a softly padded diamond pattern with contrasting rock-grey thread. The seat backs are embossed with the RSQ3 logo and electrical adjustment of lumbar support and other seat functions. The rear bench is identically trimmed and the condition equally as good.

The dashboard is finished in black with carbon fibre style accent panels. The white on grey dials with red needles sit in a hooded binnacle directly ahead of the driver. The tachometer sports the RS logo and is redlined at close to 7,000 rpm. A centrally situated 3.5-inch colour display communicates information from the Audi MMI and navigation system. The chunky, flat bottomed multi-function steering wheel sits between these and the driver and features alloy gear change paddles on both sides.

The dash top mounted 7-inch high-resolution screen controls the navigation system and audio unit. The latter is the optional, uprated Bose 465-watt, 5.1 surround sound system which drives no less than 14 speakers including a centre speaker and rear subwoofer. Other RS refinements include 3-stage heated seats, climate control, cruise control, hill descent assist, blind spot warning, hold assist and Parking system plus.

The rear hatch electrically operates to reveal a generous luggage compartment and a flexible rear seat folding arrangement. This area is neatly presented and well-trimmed in true Audi fashion. The reversible boot floor mat lifts to reveal the tyre compressor and large Bose rear subwoofer.

The Audi boasts an enthusiast’s dream of a mechanical specification throughout. Of course, there is that potent, muti-award winning 2.5L five-cylinder turbocharged engine. Then you have the full-time, four-wheel drive reassurance of the Quattro system mated to the seven-speed S-Tronic transmission. Stopping has received an equal amount of fastidious attention as going has, needless to say. Braking is courtesy of a special RS system with ventilated disk all round with anti-lock, brake force distribution and electronic stabilisation assistance. The RS sports suspension incorporates active damper control which is adjustable across three settings – comfort, auto and dynamic.

Given this RSQ3’s very moderate milage to date, little routine maintenance has yet been required. This also helps explain the excellent condition that the mechanical systems appear to be in. Lifting the bonnet reveals a business-like nest of pipes and wires together with a red finished cam cover and an “Audi” and “TFSI” embossed inlet manifold cover. The transverse configuration of the 5-cylinder engine keeps this area compact looking and aids body packaging. The numerous plastic covers are clean and well presented. The underside seemingly helps demonstrate the benefits of the Japanese, salt-free and well-maintained road infrastructure. It looks clean and straight and free from corrosion.

As previously alluded to, the RSQ3 has not really been far enough yet to require extensive maintenance. As such, the paperwork on hand is modest, but is correct as per Audi service schedule. There are a number of documents relating to the car’s import to the UK and the associated DVLA processes. There is a service record print out which details a service at an Audi dealership in October 2021. This was at 24,853 km (15,442 miles) and an additional brake fluid change was undertaken. 

The phrase “the only car you’ll ever need” has perhaps become a little hackneyed and cliched. If ever there was a car that fits that description, however, it is probably the RSQ3. It will perform all the mundane daily tasks you throw at it with aplomb. Tip run? Easily. School run? Flawlessly. Negotiating a muddy lane? Ably. But then, where conditions allow and the kids and the dog are at home in bed, you can unleash those 335 horses and revel in the outstanding grip afforded by the legendary Quattro system.

This example is notable not only for its very moderate milage but also for its pristine, very lightly used condition. It comes with some appealing extras too, especially that luxurious and classy looking diamond stitched Nappa leather upholstery. For your chance to judge for yourself if this is the only car you need, bid today. Whether it is or it isn’t, you are most unlikely to be disappointed by the RSQ3.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the seller in Worthing. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.