Second-generation Audi Q3 gets bigger and smarter
Audi has introduced the second-generation Q3 compact crossover, and the little cute-ute has grown up in more ways than one.
Larger in every dimension, the Q3’s wheelbase has been stretched by 77 millimetres to an overall 4,485 mm, while the width is now 1,856 mm. Cargo space has grown to a generous 1,525 litres with the rear seats folded, from 1,365 L, and those rear seats can be moved fore and aft by 150 mm for any long-legged passengers.
The Q3 is also more mature, technologically speaking. There are no analog instruments anymore, replaced with Audi’s virtual cockpit, along with a 10.1-inch touch screen for the infotainment system on the centre console.
But what’s more interesting is that you can actually have a conversation with the car — well, sort of. The voice control now understands freely structured wording, and can ask questions, allow corrections, offer choices and defer to whomever is speaking to it when interrupted.
The infotainment system offers the same features as other, more expensive cars from Audi, while the crossover also features added safety and comfort features, such as parking assist, which steers the car automatically into a parking spot, and adaptive cruise assist, which not only controls speed relative to objects in front, but also incorporates traffic jam assist and active lane assist.
Power will come from four engines, though it’s unlikely we’ll see the diesel version. There is no information yet as to what exactly we will see in Canada.
Prices have also not been released, but the vehicle will launch sometime in 2019.