Audi Q3

Inside the Q3 is a spacious cabin that seats 5 passengers comfortably without feeling constricted. What is more, it has an impressive cargo space that can be further expanded when the rear seats are folded flat. The soft-touch surface and modern styling of the cabin are nice but not up to par, in terms of the base options, with what you’d expect in most of Audi’s portfolio. Nonetheless, the sense of exclusivity and luxury is still there with a minimal amount of plasticky feel.

The layout of the dashboard is very user-friendly with just the ample amount of tech that will not overwhelm the driver. The instrument cluster with color display is very straightforward. The optional virtual cockpit, heads up display, MMI navigation, and connectivity package can further amp up the driving experience with its tons of vehicle information delivered in an organized layout with audio and visual cues to make the driving experience more engaging. Add to that is the LED ambient interior lighting that sets the mood of your drive for that perfect road trip.

The Q3 design is “modern mobility confidently interpreted.” This Audi SUV shows an athletic appearance beginning with its massive front grille with horizontal slits to make the vehicle look more powerful. This is flanked by angular LED headlights and large low-set inlets in the bottom bumper. The pair of creases on the hood adds to its sporty appeal. Aerodynamic curves and lines mark the sides while the rear gets exhaust tailpipe with chrome-plated trims and massive rear spoiler. Up top are roof rails, shark fin antenna, and a glass sunroof. This Audi vehicle measures 4,388 mm long, 1,831 mm wide, 1,608 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,603 mm. It rides on a set of 16-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in 215/65 R 16 tires.

The Audi Q3, just like the other Audis, is fun to drive. The steering is light and responsive while the brakes have a strong grip. Top-of-the-line Quattro variants deliver impressive performance whether it be navigating through congested, uneven city roads, or rough terrain for outdoor adventures. The suspension can be a bit stiff which gives a firm ride than most of the usual SUV in the same segment. Nonetheless, there’s still that quiet, smooth ride that you’d expect on an Audi luxury SUV. Most of all, the comfort level of this SUV is high. The roomy cabin has enough knee, shoulder, and headroom even for rear passengers which is a great selling point since most Filipinos like taking long family trips.

The Q3 comes in two engine options: (1) TFSI 4-cylinder inline petrol engine with direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and Audi cylinder on-demand technology and the (2) TDI 4-cylinder inline diesel engine with common rail injection system and turbocharging. Both engines come in different displacements, drive type, and tranny combination. It also uses premium, sulfur-free diesel or RON 95 gasoline and are all Euro 6 standard compliant.

The Audi Q3 TFSI with 1.4-L engines provides 148 Hp of output and 250 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual for the Ultra and 6-speed S tronic for the base model. Both are available in front-wheel drive. The Q3 TFSI with 2.0-L engines delivers 177 Hp of power and 320 Nm of torque. It’s available paired to 6-speed manual tranny and two-wheel drivetrain. The Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro versions come in permanent all-wheel drive option and provides 177 Hp of power and 320 Nm of torque available in 6-speed manual transmission with the option of a 7-speed S tronic. A more powerful, top-of-the-line 2.0 TFSI quattro delivers 217 Hp of output and 350 Nm of torque paired with a 7-speed S tronic. This powerful petrol engine can accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 233 km/h.

For the TDI diesel options, all have 1,968cc, 2.0-L capacity engines that provide varying output. There’s the 88 hp of output and 290 Nm of torque; 148 hp of power and 340 Nm of torque; and 181 hp of power and 380 Nm of torque. All three TDI engines are paired with 6-speed manual gearbox which sends power to the two front wheels. For the TDI quattro edition, there’s the 148 hp of output and 340 Nm of torque and the more powerful 181 hp of output and 380 Nm of torque. Both are paired to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed S Tronic and has a permanent all-wheel drive type. The top-of-the-line Quattro diesel engine can go from a standstill to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds and has a top speed of 219 kmph.

Audi takes pride in providing tons of safety features in all its vehicles. And just like most vehicles in its portfolio, the Q3 gets a perfect 5-star rating for safety from the Euro NCAP. This subcompact-luxury crossover comes standard with antilock brake system (ABS), anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic differential lock (EDL), electronic stabilization control (ESC), start-stop system, complete airbag system, and ISOFIX child seat mounting and top tether. For quattro systems, there’s an added wheel-selective torque control. However, the assistance system that usually comes standard like hold assist, hill descent control, cruise control, reverse camera, and parking assist system are optional packages that come with its wide range of driver-assistance technology.

The Audi Q3 is a relatively agile and is a compelling choice for a luxury subcompact SUV. It delivers well-balanced performance, riding comfort, and safety features fit for a family SUV. And despite some of its downsides, which are relatively minor compared to its strengths, the Q3 still delivers exactly what you’d expect from a tech-loving German automaker.