Bigger and bolder new Q3 brings strong presence and sophisticated technology to the compact SUV segment.
Exterior design
The exterior design of the 2nd generation Q3 stands out by sharper creases and sleeker lines along with the Singleframe of octagonal shape and large side air inlets. All versions use LED technology which can be enhanced by Matrix LED for intelligent illumination of your way. The symmetry of the headlights and rear lights makes the side view more sophisticated. The new concept of large and adaptable space used in the Audi Q3 makes it longer by 97 millimetres, wider by 18 millimetres and lower by 5 millimetres than its predecessor and facilitates inclusion of greater knee, head and elbow room. The bolder new body will be available in a choice of 11 paint colours, and initially in the UK in Sport or S line specification.
Interior design
By complimenting the exterior design, the cabin design talks in contemporary and sophisticated way. The reductive instrument panel divided into two levels echoes Singleframe design with the wide chrome fringing. The MMI touch display is the focal element of the new operating concept. The luggage capacity varies from 530 to 675 liters depending on which out of 7 positions the rear seats are in. With the backrests folded down the total capacity escalates to 1,525 litres. For comfortable stowing of heavy luggage the loading floor can be adjusted in three levels.
Digital world
Fully digital MMI dashboard incorporates same technical functions as in higher segments with clever navigation that memorises previous destinations and adapts the journey route based on real-time traffic situation. MyAudi app connects to the new Q3 system allowing navigation routes to be imported and displayed once the driver gets into the car as well as to stream music, to lock and unlock the car remotely and to position its current status and location. In addition, new natural-voice control will be installed to facilitate the hand-free experience. The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound along with special algorithm that Audi developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute makes interior of Q3 sound like a concert hall.
Convenience and safety
The Audi Q3 uses its top class assist systems to allocate vehicles in the blind spots, prevent drifting off the lane, correct steering intervention, detect and alert any critical situations involving pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles. Optional park assist and adaptive cruise assist provides greater control, comfort and maneuverability. The lengthened wheelbase allowed the MacPherson strut front and sophisticated four-link rear suspension to support the Audi Q3 on country roads, in towns and on the motorways. Standard Audi drive select handling system includes six modes and adjustable to the preferences of the driver.
Broad range: the engines
At launch four engines will power the new Audi Q3 - three TFSI and one TDI with power outputs that range from 150PS to 230PS.
The entry-level engine is the 1.5-litre TFSI with 150PS and 250 Nm of torque. It uses the cylinder on demand efficiency system, which temporarily switches off two cylinders at low load. Using the new Audi naming convention it will be badged 35 TFSI and will be fitted with a fast-shifting seven-speed S tronic and front-wheel drive at launch - a six-speed manual option will follow later.
The 2.0-litre TFSI unit in the Audi Q3 40 TFSI has 190PS and develops maximum torque of 320 Nm. In its uprated form - the Audi Q3 45 TFSI – it has 230PS and 350 Nm of torque. Both engines are coupled as standard with the seven-speed S tronic and use quattro permanent all-wheel drive based around the hydraulic multi-plate clutch.
In the diesel engine line-up, the 2.0-litre unit with 150PS and 340 Nm of torque is the lead-in version . The Q3 35 TDI is initially available with a manual transmission and quattro drive. Shortly afterwards, a seven-speed S tronic version will be offered in combination with front-wheel drive. Following the market launch, a 2.0 TDI developing 190PS will extend the engine range.
The new Audi Q3 will become available to order from Lookers in the autumn ahead of first deliveries in late 2018. Pricing and full UK specification will be confirmed nearer to the introduction date.
