Audi has launched the all new 2nd generation Q3 SUV seven years after the first generation was initially launched.The Q3 is a very important and successful model for Audi, but due to supply issues and the launch of the Q2, sales in the last 12 months have been small.
The new model will absolutely reverse this situation. There are two versions, the Q3 35 TFSI and Q3 35 TFSI Launch Edition. They come with one engine, transmission and are all 2WD at this stage
Exterior
Audi has ramped up the sporty look with a single frame octagon design grill with vertical highlights. The slimline LED headlights accentuate the bold bonnet and wheel arches.
Profile view shows a clever blend of angular and smooth lines for a slightly wedge shape, not as edgy as the Q2, but the Q3 is aimed at a different demographic.
From the rear the Q3 looks better than many SUVs with a sloping ‘D’ pillars and tailgate and again the rear lights accentuating the lines.
Tyre choices run from 18 inch alloys with 235/55 tyres through to 19 inch 20 spoke alloys with 235/50 tyres. All the choices look good.
There are also 11 paint colours and a choice of full-body colour or a contrasting paint finish for customisation of the exterior design by means of specific add-on parts and colours
The new Q3 is a little longer, wider and lower than the previous model. The differences are – Length 4485 millimetres (+ 97), wheelbase 2680 millimetres (+ 77), width 1849 millimetres (+ 18), height 1585 millimetres (- 5)
This translates to good useable increases for occupants and luggage.
Interior
Step inside and its typical Audi, which means clean lines, excellent driver ergonomics and functionality. The main areas reflect the octagonal design from the exterior.
Seats are comfortable and the optional heated electric seats for the entry model come standard on the Launch edition and are definitely worth it.
In front of the driver is a small thick rimmed steering wheel with the usual controls you would expect. Audi do good steering wheels.
The instrument binnacle is a standard specification digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch diagonal screen, which the driver can choose from a number of visual options.
The central area of the front interior is dominated by a 10.1-inch MMI touch display with a high gloss black surround, in the middle of the dashboard. It is slightly (10 degrees) tilted towards the driver to improve visibility. Voice controls work well with advanced recognition.
Below are the typical Audi controls and a phone charging pad in front of the transmission lever. The cup holders are to the side so as not to intrude anywhere.
There are soft touch points everywhere you would rest your elbows and the overall ambience is neat and clean. Visibility is also good all around, with a little blind spot around the ‘A’ pillar.
Rear seats are good, with reasonable room, but better suited for two smaller passengers. They can be slid fore/aft by 150 millimetres and their three-way backrests split in the ratio 40:20:40, and can be tilted in seven stages.
Depending on the position of the rear seats and backrests, the luggage compartment capacity is between 530 and 1525 litres. The loading floor can be adjusted in two levels and the parcel shelf can be stowed underneath the floor if not needed. An electric tailgate, which can also be opened and closed with a kicking motion, is standard.
Features and Infotainment system
The Q3 is remarkably well equipped with standard features and the Launch edition adds many popular options at a value packed additional price.
Key features include:
- Voice control infotainment
- LTE Advanced standard with integrated Wi-Fi hotspot
- Seamless connectivity through myAudi app,
- Hybrid radio, which automatically switches between FM, DAB and the online stream to ensure optimum reception at all times.
- Audi phone box light, which charges the owner’s smartphone inductively.
- Adaptive LED headlights or Matrix LED headlights with adaptive high beam available
- Contour/ambient light package for targeted light effects in the dark, adjustable in 30 colours
Optional ($900) Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual sound provides three-dimensional audio and drives a total of 15 loudspeakers. An option worth the dollars if you like your music.
Engine and Drivetrain
The new Q3 has been lunched with one engine, transmission, drivetrain variant. It is powered by a 1.4L TFSI engine producing 110kW @ 5000 rpm and 250Nm of torque between 1500 – 3500 rpm.
It accelerates the Audi Q3 35 TFSI with 6-speed S tronic dual clutch from 0 to 100km/h in 9.2 seconds, and has a top speed of 207km/h.
Recommended fuel is 95 Octane and the Q3 uses 7.2 L/100K as an ADR combined cycle.
I like these little TFSI engines as they bring the torque in nice and low in the rev range which makes for smooth and relaxed driving. The Q3 in this guise is simply good. Not underpowered or sporty, it’s just right. I’m usually not a big fan of dual clutch transmissions, either the jerkiness around town or their longevity, but this one certainly seems smooth enough on the launch drive.
The ride and handling is as you would expect and quiet on all but the course chip roads or potholed back roads. There really was nothing that I felt it did wrong.
Safety
As you would expect the Q3 has a five star ANCAP safety rating and the key highlights include:
- Safety system Audi pre sense basic,
- Audi pre sense front as well as lane-change warning
- Audi side assist,
- lane-departure warning system
- Audi active lane assist and
- adjustable speed limiter
- Available with adaptive cruise assist, park assist, cross traffic assist rear and 360-degree cameras
Good Bits
- Launch Edition value
- Sophisticated styling
- Infotainment and connectivity technology
Not so Good Bits
- No AWD at this stage
- “A” pillar visibility
- Adaptive Cruise control can’t be selective
Summary
Audi has waited a long time to launch the second generation Q3 and with the launch of the Q2 and low stock sales have been affected.
The market has moved a long way in those seven years and the Q3 is entering onto a highly competitive dynamic segment with a loss of momentum.
The car itself is excellent and worth the wait, but the question buyers will ask is whether it does enough to attract them from other well entrenched competitors. I think so!
The target market for the Q3 is the young urban families or the older buyers that are downsizing. For either of these the Q3 will happily accommodate their needs.
The pick for me is definitely the Launch edition, it is packed with standard features, represents pretty good value and looks slightly better.
Also Look At
Facts and Figures: 2020 Audi 35 TFSI
- Engine: 1.4L four-cylinder turbo petrol producing 110kW/2500Nm
- Transmission: Six-speed sports s Tronic /dual clutch
- Warranty: 3 Year/ unlimited km 3 Yr. Roadside Assist
- Safety: Five stars
- Origin: Germany
- Price: From $46,400 MLP* – Launch Edition $52,750 MLP*
*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.