THE first ever Audi RS sports utility vehicle will make its world debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show in the shape of the new 310PS RS Q3.

Order books open in the summer for a model due to bring unparalleled power to the compact SUV class when it arrives towards the end of this year.

It is also the first SUV handed over to the specialists at Audi high performance subsidiary quattro GmbH for the full, no-holds-barred RS transformation.

Beneath the car's bonnet is the 2.5-litre TFSI petrol engine used in the TT RS and RS 3 Sportback models and linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission.

It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds, on to a top speed electronically limited to 155mph and the five-cylinder engine is also complemented by a start-stop system which contributes to fuel economy of 32.1mpg - a new precedent for an RS model.

Drivers can also influence the flap control for the exhaust system and accelerator characteristics via the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics set-up which is fitted as standard.

RS-specific body details include a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers, the front including a quattro emblem in the air intake and the rear a diffuser plus large elliptical tailpipes.

A roof spoiler, roof rails in matt aluminium and special door sill plates and door trim strips also add emphasis and there's also an exclusive Sepang Blue pearl effect body colour.

The luggage area can hold 356 litres, which can be increased to 1,261 litres by folding down the split rear seat backs and a reversible load liner is included.