Audi has revealed the most exciting Q3 variant yet at today's Detroit Auto Show (January 9). The Q3 Vail concept (named after a Colorado mountain resort) is powered by a 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI petrol engine that produces 314hp and 400Nm of torque.
This power is transferred to the tarmac (or snow) via Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel drive system and a seven-speed S tronic transmission. The Audi Q3 Vail accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 262km/h.
Apparently designed for fans of winter sports who love skiing or snowboarding, the Q3 Vail features rugged flared wheelarches that accommodate 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 225/45 section off-road tyres. Running boards have been fitted to the side of the car and an aluminium rail specifically designed to hold skis and snowboards attached to the roof.
The 'Energy Red' paint scheme is offset with matt grey quartz-based paint body cladding, anthracite coloured headlights and the liberal use of aluminium on the grille, air inlets and exposed under-body guard.
The interior of the Audi Q3 Vail includes a charging station in the boot that charges torches via induction. The same technology is also used in the front cup-holder and has the ability to both chill and warm drinks. Integrated heated seat cushions in the boot mat give skiers somewhere warm to sit while removing ski-boots. LED lights that incorporate infra-red heating elements that can be used for warming hands are included too.
It's highly likely that Audi will launch a high-performance version of the Q3 using the same powerplant as the concept, though no official information has yet been released.