Audi chasing sporting success

Audi’s sleek Q3 Sportback packs style without compromise. Ryan Hirons tests it out.

With the SUV market seeing ever-more niche segments spouted within, it’s no surprise that the coupeesque crossover market is beginning to boom. Audi has been noticeably absent from this seemingly lucrative market until fairly recently, though that changed with its A8 and now this - the Q3 Sportback. This compact machine is effectively a Q3 that signed up for a gym membership as it’s looking leaner, sleeker and more aggressive than before.

WHAT’S NEW?

Though mechanically nearenough identical to the regular Q3, the Sportback has seen a fairly comprehensive overhaul to its bodywork. It’s been cut down 6mm in width and 29mm in height, while growing in length by 16mm. Changes elsewhere are minimal, with the only major introduction being Amazon’s Alexa assistant integrated into the infotainment system. This allows for control of both the car’s media functions and Alexaenabled devices elsewhere. HOW DOES IT LOOK? Undoubtedly the largest selling point of the Q3 Sportback over its boxier stablemate is its styling, and we think the sharper and more aggressive look is one that’s bound to tempt buyers.

Its more imposing front end certainly has a presence on the road, while the sloping rear could easily fool a few people into thinking this car hides more performance than it really offers. WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? There’s little to differentiate the Q3 Sportback from any Audi made in recent years and this isn’t a bad thing as there’s not much to be found in the way of cheaper feel items. Practicality hasn’t been compromised with the introduction of the sloping design, either. Headroom is still at a good level, while boot space comes in at 530 litres - the same as the regular car. WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Full pricing isn’t available, so we can’t make a judgement on value for money, though Audi expects things to kick off at £32,240. Standard additions across the range include 18-inch alloys, electrically-folding door mirrors and LED head and rear lights, while inside the Virtual Cockpit system replaces traditional dials/ gauges and is flanked by a 10.1inch infotainment display. THE VERDICT

Bringing a sleeker look to the Audi Q3 has proven a good move with the Sportback, with no drawbacks on the practicality front yet all the benefits of a better-looking car. It’s an overall decent package, with a good and easy driving experience with bags of tech - albeit a car that’s probably never going to set the pulse racing while behind the wheel.