New Audi Q3: the second generation of the compact SUV arrives

The new Audi Q3 is the next model in the SUV offensive that Audi is developing, sharing the spotlight with the just-presented Audi Q8. It arrives after the summer.

The second generation of the Audi Q3 is already here. While last Monday Audi released a teaser revealing the presentation of the long-awaited compact SUV, we can now see it in photos and video, and analyse what changes and what to expect from the new Q3 when it reaches dealerships after the summer. Audi continues its SUV offensive this way, having started these days the pricing and the opening of orders for the Audi Q8, which also launches in November.

What changes on the outside of the new Audi Q3

The last update that Audi made to the Q3 in 2016 already linked this SUV with the brand’s latest models. But this new generation is clearly sportier, with an octagonal grille design and large air intakes at the front, which recall the very Audi Q8. Following the current trend, Audi offers numerous customisation options, with a dark colour contrast for the lower part of the bodywork, which comes in 11 different colours. And the S line exterior package is not missing, further accentuating the sporty image.

With a new platform – the modular transverse platform of the Volkswagen Group Volkswagen – the new Audi Q3 grows in every dimension. Logical, especially now that the range also includes the Audi Q2 below it. The length increases by 10 cm, to 4.48 metres. The width grows by 2 cm, to 1.85 m. However, it is 5 mm lower, which helps give it that sporty and powerful look. The wheelbase is 2.68 m, an increase of 8 cm.

The interior of the new Audi Q3: digitised

Once inside, no surprises, given what any of Audi’s latest models offers. We find what we expected: a clean and well-organised dashboard design, divided into two levels, with lines that continue those of the bodywork, and a design that even reminds us of the higher-end Audis.

Screens are once again the stars, integrating the Audi Q3 into the digital world. The standard screen is 10.25 inches, and as an option the digital instrument cluster Audi virtual cockpit can be fitted, with two available sizes: 10.25 or 12.3 inches. With the highest-end infotainment system in the range, MMI Navigation plus, the Audi Q3 offers all the possible connectivity functions already common in the four-ring brand, through Audi connect services.

Thus, the navigation recognises the driver’s preferences based on previous routes. And the permanently installed SIM card in the car provides real-time traffic information, parking locations or petrol stations. With the myAudi app, routes from the navigator can be imported directly to the phone, or the calendar from the phone transferred to the car’s MMI system, in addition to using the phone to remotely lock or unlock the Q3, or to memorise where the car was parked, among many other functions.

The cabin benefits from the increase in exterior size. And the arrival of features the Q3 did not have, but other models in the range such as the Audi Q5 did, improve everyday versatility. The most interesting is the possibility of longitudinally adjusting the rear seats, with a travel of 15 cm. This allows gaining legroom when no luggage is carried, or modifying the cargo space in the boot to go from 530 to 676 litres. By folding down the seatbacks, split in 40:20:40 sections, a boot capacity of up to 1,525 litres is reached. The tailgate is electrically operated, and can optionally be fitted with the gesture-controlled opening system, by passing a foot under the rear bumper.

Latest in driver assistance

The new Audi Q3 is also up to date in terms of safety and driver assistance systems. Nothing is missing from the latest assistants Audi has implemented in its new models, notably the adaptive driving assistant – only with S tronic gearbox – which noticeably improves comfort on long journeys. It includes adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist and lane keeping assistance, thus controlling the car both longitudinally and laterally.

The Audi pre sense front system is standard. It initiates an emergency brake in critical situations that could cause a collision with a pedestrian, a cyclist or another vehicle, if the driver does not react to the visual and acoustic warning signals. And the various parking assistance systems can make manoeuvring so easy that the driver would only need to worry about the pedals and selecting the gear.

With the MQB platform chassis from Volkswagen, the new Audi Q3 uses McPherson struts at the front and a four-link rear axle. The optional sport suspension (standard with the S line exterior package) has firmer spring and damper settings, and optionally an electronically controlled damping suspension can be fitted. Progressive steering with variable ratio is also offered, and among the options for improving dynamic behaviour is the Audi drive select system, with six driving modes. Off the tarmac, the Audi Q3 has the help of the hill descent control, activated by a button.

Audi will detail the engine range and its performance and consumption characteristics later. For now, it is announced that at launch four options will be offered, three TFSI and one TDI, with power outputs ranging from 150 CV to 230 CV. Transmission options include the S tronic dual-clutch gearbox with seven speeds as an alternative to the 6-speed manual, and quattro all-wheel drive.

Audi Q3 2019 image gallery

Technical specifications of this car

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