Audi Q3 - a great compact SUV

Created Date: 10/06/2011

Audi have just unveiled their newest Q series compact SUV and it comes in the form of the Q3 – their third Q model. Sitting behind the larger Q5 and Q7, this is aimed at those who still need the benefits of a people carrier but may not necessarily have the space to accommodate one. It will be sharing its platform structure with the VW Tiguan, which means a Transverse mounted engine and gearbox combination are the order of the day. Another thing to note is that unlike the Torsen-based full-time four-wheel drive system of Audi’s existing SUVs — the Q5 and Q7 —Q3 will be relying on a simpler and lighter Haldex multi-plate clutch arrangement. While this won’t mean much to most people, you should be happy as it’s a cheap and very effective alternative to Haldex.

Being a completely new addition to the range means there is no back- catalogue to compare it to in terms of the exterior; however it can safely be said that it follows the 2011 stylings relatively predictably. At 4390mm long, 1830mm wide and 1600mm tall (roof rail included), the Q3 is 239mm shorter, 50mm narrower and 53mm lower than the Q5, but it still manages to look pretty menacing parked in your drive. Their trademark 2011 grille is in place along with the angular lights designed to give it that mean edge. It’s all very reminiscent of the other Audi’s in their line-up and manages to carry this year’s theme across nicely. Inside the Q3, you can expect an all leather interior as standard along with dual-zone climate control, a 6.5-inch retractable screen for the rear seats, Bluetooth, iPod connection and auto lights and wipers. It’s all suitably lavish and premium feeling, which helps to maintain its class.

As is typical with Audi the Q3 will come in various levels of luxury, starting with the SE and moving onto the more premium S line for an extra £2750. The extra cash will buy you larger 18-inch wheels, 20mm lower sports suspension, part-leather upholstery, xenon headlights with LED running lights and some extra chrome finishing outside and brushed aluminium details inside.

The Q3 will be going on sale with a choice of three engine options and a further fourth expected by the end of the year. Of the three available at launch, two will be petrol and one will be a diesel variant aimed at the more economical driver. For the petrol engines there will be a choice of either 168bhp or 208bhp, with both offering a four wheel drive system to boot. The 138bhp TDI diesel version will operate on front wheel drive only but should be expected to produce much better fuel economy figures. The elusive fourth engine scheduled to launch slightly later in November will be another slightly more powerful 175bhp diesel but with a mighty impressive party piece – a gigantic proposed fuel economy rating of 54.3mpg.

The Audi Q3 will be going on sale at a starting price of £24,560, which places it in the firing line of the BMW X3 and Range Rover Evoque. So, Audi have some stiff competition on their hands. Orders for the Q3 will be starting anytime from now and deliveries are expected to be arriving around November time. You can also opt for a business or personal lease from Car Leasing Made Simple. This is a fantastically equipped people carrier that has many of its luxuries as standard, something which the competition does not. If you’re looking for an affordable quality SUV from day one without having to plough through a list of optional extras, this is definitely worth considering.

Article written by: Tom Wellburn

Sources:
http://www.whatcar.com/car-news/audi-q3-priced-from-24-560/257043
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/articles/2011/04/cars/audi/q3/audi-q3-full-details
http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/AllCars/257048/
http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/AllCars/256488/

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