Latest Audi Q3 debuts locally

The Q3 is one of the most important models in Audi’s portfolio. We attended the South African national ride-and-drive event to learn more about the latest version.

Over two millions Audi Q3s have been sold worldwide. That is a serious number, especially when you consider that the badge was only added to the line-up about 15 years ago. That sales tally is an indication of how important the small SUV is to the Ingolstadt automaker. With that in mind, it is vitally important to build on the success that came before.

All-New

The latest, third, generation is all-new from the ground up. It may be based on the VW Group’s MQB Evo platform, but it has been thoroughly reengineered for duty in the newest Q3. Audi has simultaneously launched the Q3 in ‘regular’ SUV/wagon-esque and Sportback versions into the SA market.

These latest Q3 twins have the company’s new, more aggressive face. The latter consists of a slightly flatter and wider version of the now signature ‘singleframe’ grille. On the upper edges this large intake is flanked by a set of slim LED headlamps. It’s worth noting that both body styles are identical until the A-pillar, so they are impossible to tell apart from the straight-ahead.

Other stylistic highlights include ‘blistered’ wheel arches – which Audi says is a nod to the original Quattro -, an interesting little detail on the D-pillar on the ‘wagon’ and two-part LED taillamps. In addition there is a body-wide rear light strip, and, if you choose Advanced or S-line versions, an illuminated Four-Rings logo. In our eyes, it is the ‘regular’ version that is the more appealing.

Interestingly, Audi claims that both body styles offer the same, 488 litres of, boot volume which is access via an electrically operated tailgate; standard fitment across the board. 18-inch alloys are standard, but buyers can choose from a variety of options that measure up to 20 inches in diameter.

More Digital, New Look Interior

Audi, long considered one of the best in terms of creating appealing cabins, has introduced a completely new look in the Q3. Standard equipment across the range includes lane departure warning, seven airbags, leather upholstery, front and rear parking sensors, climate control and and Audi’s ‘digital stage’.

The latter refers to the dual-screen layout, which consists of an 11,9-inch instrument cluster and a 12,8-inch infotainment screen. The centre-mounted infotainment screen runs a new Android operating systems, which means you and download and use third-party apps… neat.

Some notable take aways include the gear selector that has been repositioned to the steering column and column stalks with fixed and moving sections. A fixed panel is sited behind the wheel. On either end are controls for pretty much every vital control. It is a nice solution, although Audi could well have left a few more physical controls for things such as the climate control system.

Another oddity is the lack of electric adjustment for the seats. At this price point, and having driven many (cheaper) cars with this as standard, the Q3 has manual adjustment in all planes.

As You Prefer

Audi has introduced the Q3 range with just two engine options: one petrol and the other diesel. Both are well known from various other Audi applications. The 1,4-litre TFSI has peak outputs of 110 kW and 250 N.m. The 2,0-litre TDI offers the same peak power and a healthier 360 N.m of torque. Regardless of the engine, a dual-clutch transmission is the sole choice on offer.

Audi is offering four derivatives in each body style each available in petrol or diesel (see breakdown at the bottom of this post). There is the base version, simply (and a bit confusingly) called Q3. Stepping up into an Advanced derivative gets you more standard equipment. S-line derivatives are the highest-spec and zootiest looking of the lot. Audi also offers three preset packages that bundles groups of additional kit. These are known a Tech, Tech Plus and Tech Pro.

A Quick Drive

The South African launch event was held in winelands area of the Western Cape. From the outskirts of Stellenbosch we drove both engine types and both body styles. The latter makes no difference to the driving experience. Both engines are refined units, although the petrol version does come across a bit more anodyne. It’s good enough for the urban cruise, particularly if unladen, although it may be found a little wanting if there is a full house of occupants and a boot-full of luggage. We much prefer the more relaxed power delivery and strong torque output of the turbodiesel engine. We’ll be able to delve deeper when we get a test unit for a few days.

Summary

The Q3 now, more than ever, plays an important role in Audi’s local line-up. Since the demise of the Q2, the Q3 now represents the entry point into Audi SUV ownership, with the brand hoping that it opens the doors for customers to step up through the range in time. Part of that plan is a lease option with guaranteed buy-back value. Audi representatives tell us that this has become an increasingly popular option.

About one quarter of all new Audis sold locally wear the Q3 badge. And choosing this model is a properly viable option into premium SUV ownership. However, glance at the table below and you will see that the Q3 comes at a price. With no variant cheaper than R800k, the Q3 faces stiff competition from all quarters.