Audi recently lifted the wraps off the all-new 2019 Q3 SUV, but recent spy shots and leaked patent images prove that faster variants are already being cooked up. In our last glimpse of the hotter Q3 lapping the Nurburgring, it wasn't clear if we were looking at a prototype of the new SQ3 or the hardcore Q3 RS. In this case, however, our spies have clearly caught an updated RS Q3 prototype being put through its paces at the Green Hell.

Several aggressive design elements indicate that this is the range-topping crossover. At the back are oval exhaust pipes that are a staple of Audi RS models, as well as a large rear spoiler and a reshaped rear bumper incorporating a small diffuser between the exhaust pipes.

Elsewhere, the updated front bumper also has bigger air intakes to help the performance SUV breathe easier and the grille has a new pattern seen on other RS models. The SUV's beefier brakes with ceramic discs and what looks like six-piston calipers is another obvious giveaway this isn't a regular Audi Q3.

Under the hood, reports suggest the new RS Q3 will be powered by the same 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine found in the RS3 and TT RS tuned to deliver around 400 hp. And unlike the last model, it will reportedly be sold in the US. We'll probably be waiting for a while for it to arrive, however, since the base Q3 won't be going on sale in the US until next year, despite arriving in European dealerships this November. That means the performance-focused RS Q3 probably won't be available until late 2019 in the US. The SQ3 is also due to arrive sometime in 2019, which will most likely adopt the S3's 2.0-liter TFSI that pumps out 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

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