Audi Q3

Audi Q3

Once, but no longer, the smallest of the German car maker’s sport utility vehicles (SUV), the long serving Q3 has recently been updated, restyled and with added technology, making it ideal for everyday driving. It’s a practical and comfortable crossover, if a big SUV isn’t needed.

The Exterior

As with all other Audi vehicles, there are plenty of options available when choosing a new Q3. Paint colour and finish, the size and style of the alloy wheels and even the type of headlights. These may depend upon model specifications and of course the option packs available. In other words, personalising a Q3 that buyers might wish to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other destinations, is a straightforward and enjoyable process.

The design of the Q3 follows that of its siblings; it is just a smaller version. The new ‘singleframe’ grille reinforces the brand’s look. There’s a ‘Sportback’ coupé style too, although this sacrifices a little space for a sportier appearance. Body coloured door mirrors, a rear spoiler and roof rails are fitted as standard across the range although carbon door mirrors can be optioned at extra cost.

The Interior

Audi interiors are class-leading with comfortable seating and a goodly range of adjustment on the steering and seats, so getting a comfortable driving position is straightforward. Lumbar support is available on the top-end specifications.

All versions come with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display. It measures 10.25” on Sport and S line models and rises to 12.3” on Edition 1 and ‘Vorsprung’ models. This now legendary screen behind the multi-function steering wheel replaces conventional analogue dials with a highly configurable, full colour display with lots of useful information. Infotainment and connectivity are handled by a large and clear MMI (multi-mode interface) touch display.

There’s plenty of space up front and ample head room even for taller people in the back, thanks to the high roof line. There’s lots of big, handy door bins for bits and pieces and sufficient luggage space in the back, made larger by rear seats that fold and split to suit.

Driving The Audi Q3

As always with Audi, there’s a good range of efficient engines, possibly the most popular of which is the lively 1.5 litre turbo-charged petrol-powered unit with two-wheel drive. There’s are stronger performing variants that delivers 187bhp (189PS) and 227bhp (230PS) with the latter capable of hitting 62mph from a standstill in 6.3sec. Both are available exclusively with quattro four-wheel drive and the S tronic automatic gearbox. Fans of diesel engines have choices too, outputting 148 (150PS) and 187bhp (190PS) respectively.

S Line and Edition 1 models get sports suspension and the top dog, the ‘Vorsprung’ version, gets the best of both worlds with adaptive suspension. All models deliver a comfortable ride. Rear parking sensors come as standard on all trims to make parking easier and a rear-view camera is also found in the optional comfort pack.

On the road, for a tall vehicle, body lean is well controlled, even in entry-level Sport models, although the sport-suspension-equipped versions, improve handling still more and are a popular choice.

There’s also lots of grip and overall the Q3 is an agile car thanks in part also to the progressive steering, which gets gradually faster the more the more the steering wheel is turned making low speed manoeuvrability and parking easy.

Should I Buy One?

Owners of the first generation model report no major problems; the formula is a tried and tested one that is improved in the latest iteration. It’s a small family SUV that can be purchased with confidence through MHH International.