Some big steps in the right direction
Audi adds a much-improved interior and, most importantly, more power
BOLZANO, ITALY The secondgeneration Audi Q3 has been completely reworked to give it a stronger look, better driving dynamics and a needed infusion of power. At launch, there will be two special-edition models — the Chronos Gray edition is sedate and classy; the Pulse Orange model sets things on fire — sold along with the regular models. Not only is the paint iridescent, these special-edition Q3s get piano-black trim in lieu of the usual chrome, including on the four rings that front the grille.
Inside, special-edition models also get contrasting orange stitching on the seats and a swath of orange Alcantara on the crash pad. They really are sharp lookers, and the optional Matrix LED headlights cap things off nicely.
The Q3’s cabin has been reworked to great effect. It’s classy, comfortable and chock full of the latest technology. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit infotainment becomes standard equipment in the Q3; base models use a 10.25inch screen; however, the up-level version puts a larger 12.3-inch screen behind the steering wheel. It can be configured to give different views, but putting the navigation front-and-centre is destined to be the most popular.
It also gets Audi’s 10.1-inch MMI touch-screen display. The layout replaces the old knob-based interface and now allows the driver to scribe letters on the touch screen when inputting an address into the navigation system. It’s easier to use and a better way to do infotainment.
Naturally, you’ll find all the active safety features demanded. Along with adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, parking assist and a 360-degree camera comes Audi Pre- Sense with pedestrian and cyclist detection and lane-keep assist. The latter proved to be somewhat unnerving, as it takes over the steering to keep the Q3 in the lane.
Riding on Volkswagen’s MQB modular platform, the second-gen Q3 is longer, wider and arrives with a stretched wheelbase. The increase sees it rise 77 millimetres to a total of 2,680 mm — the upshot being more rearseat room and better flexibility. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seats now slide fore and aft by 150 mm, which either maximizes legroom or ups the cargo space.
When enjoying the best leg room, the cargo space measures 530 litres (up 57). Slide the seat fully forward and the capacity grows to 675 L. Folding the seats down then opens up 1,525 Land a flat floor. Another improvement: the privacy cover now stows under the load floor, meaning it won’t gather dust in the garage.
The latest Q3 will be offered with two versions of a reworked 2.0-L turbocharged four-cylinder. In base form, it makes 186 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. It has less horsepower than the outgoing engine but more torque, and it’s mated to a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The new Q3 takes 7.4 seconds to reach 100 km/ h from a standstill with the base engine, compared to the 8.6 seconds for the outgoing model.
The up-level turbo-four produces 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque and is mated to the same seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, but the 41 hp and new gearbox make a world of difference. The zero-to-100 km/ h run takes 6.3 seconds with this tune, a solid 1.1 seconds faster than the base version. It also sounds the part when the gas is matted.
It drives all four wheels through the Haldex version of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. Under normal driving conditions, the system powers the front wheels. The instant slippage is detected, an electronically controlled clutch sends up to 50 per cent of the power to the rear wheels. It proved to be seamless in operation on the serpentine test route.
To improve ride quality, the suspension has been massaged and will now be offered three ways: base form, S -Line with a tauter setup, and an adaptive option, which proved to be comfortable on the highway and very good at controlling unwanted body roll. Throw in the largest P255/40R20 wheel/tire package and a serious steering system with near-perfect feedback, and the Q3 rides out an alpine switchback as if on rails.
There are now six drive modes: Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual and a new Off-road setting. For the most part, Auto is best for everyday driving, as it strives for the best efficiency whenever possible but is quick to respond to a deep prod at the gas pedal. However, when doing some serious driving, Dynamic wins out by sharpening the engine and transmission, putting more weight in the steering and firming up the damping when the optional adaptive dampers are in place. In this mode, it is as sporty when pushed toward the limit as any of its peers. In spite of its size increase, the Q3 feels lighter and more alive.
The latest Audi Q3 takes some big steps in the right direction. It has more road presence, a benchmark interior, the power it has cried out for, and from a dynamic perspective, sorted handling thanks to the stiffer chassis, slick steering and adaptive suspension — insert smile here.
The Audi Q3’s final specifications and pricing will be announced closer to its secondquarter launch next year.