Audi gives new Q3 chunkier looks
The premium compact SUV has bigger external dimensions in a bid to upstage the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
That front grille looks familiar … That’s probably because you first saw it on the all- new Q8 flagship SUV officially revealed earlier this year.
The octagonal front grille and big air vents on the front bumper are new design elements for Audi’s family of SUVs. Which is why the Q3 has become the second SUV to get such a design treatment in its second-generation form, as seen here in official pictures.
In a bid to create more distance from the smaller Q2 and get on a par with its competition, the Q3 is 97mm longer and 25mm wider than the first- gen model.
The 2,680mm wheelbase is 77mm longer than ever to fractionally outwit the BMW X1 and Mercedes- Benz GLA.
The Q3’ s cabin has been redesigned to accommodate the brand’s latest digital instrument panel and MMI infotainment. Depending on markets, there are three screen sizes available, as well as wheel rims measuring from 17 to 20 inches.
Has it shunned diesel?
No, it hasn’t. But only one diesel engine has been announced so far: a 190hp 2.0litre for the 45 TDI version.
There are three petrol motors available initially, including a 150hp 1.5-litre (35 TFSI), a 190hp 2.0- litre (40 TFSI) and a 230hp 2.0- litre ( 45 TFSI).
A dual- clutch automatic transmission will naturally be chosen for the Thai market, though it’s not yet known whether the Thai Audi importer will go for front- or all- wheel drive.
When is it coming?
The new Q3 is most likely to come early next year after the Q8 is officially launched later this year.
The outgoing Q3 came in 35 TFSI form sporting a 180hp 2.0-litre petrol- turbo and Quattro all- wheel drive. It was priced at 2,549,000 baht. Since diesel is more expensive than petrol engines to develop, expect the Thai- spec Q3 to maintain that kind of fuel.
Due to the imminent arrival of the Lexus UX and Volvo XC40, the Q3 will face tough competition; both of them are expected to come with tax- friendly petrol- electric hybrid drivetrains.
It all means that Audi could opt for the entry- level petrol with front- wheel drive. In fact, the X1 is being sold in sDrive 18i form featuring a 136hp 1.5- litre three- pot petrol for 2,229,000 baht.
Pitching the Q3 in that price range, however, could harm the sales prospects of the Q2.