The updated Audi Q3 – success story continues

As Audi’s most compact Q model, the Audi Q3 offers all the inherent Q-DNA, but in a more exciting and dynamic package. Since introduction in 2012, the Q3 has sold in excess of 5,000 units locally, making it a top performer in the compact premium SUV segment. With the introduction of the refreshed Audi Q3 range, greater performance, more equipment and a more aggressive design is offered.

A new 1.4-litre 110kW entry model is now available for the Q3 with a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed S tronic transmission. Both models offer front wheel drive. As the first Audi model to feature the new Q-inspired design cues which will be rolled out to future Q models, the new Audi Q3 features a more imposing 3D-design front grille, revised bumpers and headlights. The rear features new bumpers and taillight design.

Full LED headlights are offered as an option for the first time on this model and are particularly bright and energy-efficient. Audi offers them in combination with the dynamic turn signals integrated into the likewise redesigned LED taillights. These intuitive turn signals illuminate sequentially within two-tenths of a second from the inside out in the direction the driver intends to turn.

The base model of the new Audi Q3 has a curb weight of just 1,385 kilograms, with the dimensions relatively unchanged from the previous model. It measures 4.39 metres long, 1.83 metres wide and 1.59 metres high while the wheelbase remains unchanged at 2.60 metres.

The Audi Q3 offers plenty of space at all five seating positions. In its base configuration, the cargo compartment of the Audi Q3 has a capacity of 460 litres; by folding down the split rear seatbacks, this can be increased to 1,365 litres. Roof rails and a new, extensible luggage compartment cover are standard.

The two TFSI and one TDI engine boast higher output combined with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 17 percent. The first of the petrol engines is a new 1.4T FSI now available for the first time in the Audi Q3. It produces 110 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque and will be available locally in both manual and S tronic guise.

The second petrol engine on offer is a 2.0T four-cylinder unit producing 132 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque. This model features Audi’s legendary quattro system and will only be available in S tronic transmission.

On the diesel front, there will be a 2.0 TDI engine offering 135 kW of power and 380Nm of torque. It will be available in July 2015 and will feature the quattro system and S tronic transmission as standard. A 2.0 TDI 110 kW front wheel drive S tronic model will be available in 2016.

The chassis of the redesigned Audi Q3 combines agile handling with supreme safety, and comprehensive fine-tuning has enhanced comfort even further. Audi drive select enables the driver to adjust key technology modules to suit his or her personal preferences. Wheels range in size from 16 to 19 inches in diameter, and the suspension has been tuned for high rolling comfort.

The new Audi Q3 features a generous list of standard equipment. With respect to driver assistance systems, the secondary collision brake assist is standard and a host of other systems available as options. With Audi side assist, a yellow LED indicator illuminates in the housing of the outside mirror if another vehicle is in the blind spot or is approaching rapidly from the rear. Audi active lane assist works with video cameras that detect the lane markings. It gently intervenes in the steering to help the driver return to the lane if he or she comes too close to a line without indicating.

The Audi RSQ3

The Audi RS Q3 has also been updated with the rest of the range. The compact performance SUV is now more dynamic than ever. Its 2.5 litre, five-cylinder engine now produces 250 kW (22 kW more than the previous model) and 450 Nm of torque. The top model in the series now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. An RS exhaust system with a switchable flap adds even more volume to the unmistakable sound of the five-cylinder engine.

The seven-speed S tronic, which transfers the power to the quattro drivetrain via a new hydraulic multi-plate clutch (5th generation), has also been refined for even faster gear changes. The lower gears are closely spaced for sporty response while the seventh gear is tall to save fuel.

Numerous design details illustrate the special status of the dynamic top-of-the-line model. On the exterior, the distinctive bumpers are particularly eye-catching. Sport seats are optionally available in Fine Nappa leather with diamond quilting; red needles sweep across gray dials in the instrument cluster; and the driver information system offers a special RS menu with lap timer and displays for both oil temperature and boost pressure.

The improved Audi RS Q3 will be introduced locally in August 2015.

Standard equipment

Audi Q3 1.4T FSI manual and S tronic

Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and halogen rear lights
3-spoke multi-function leather covered sports steering wheel
Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming
Voice control
Concert radio with pop-up LCD colour screen
Audi music interface
Driver information system with efficiency programme
New-design 16-inch alloy wheels
Cruise control
Standard seats in cloth
Front centre armrest
Passive speakers
Manual air-conditioning
Front passenger airbag deactivation
Automatic interior dimming mirror

Audi Q3 2.0T FSI 132 kW S tronic quattro and 2.0 TDI 135 kW quattro S tronic:

Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and halogen rear lights
3-spoke multi-function leather covered sports steering wheel
Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming
Voice control
Concert radio with pop-up LCD colour screen
Audi music interface
Driver information system in colour with efficiency programme
New-design 17-inch alloy wheels
Cruise control
LED interior lighting package
Standard seats in cloth
Front centre armrest
Audi sound system
Automatic air-conditioning
Front passenger airbag deactivation
Automatic interior dimming mirror

Pricing:

The Audi Q3 will be priced as per below:

• Audi Q3 1.4T FSI 110 kW manual: R 402,500
• Audi Q3 1.4T FSI 110 kW S tronic: R 419,500
• Audi Q3 2.0T FSI 132 kW quattro S tronic: R 499,000
• Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 135 kW quattro S tronic: R 515,000
• Audi RSQ3 2.5T FSI 250 kW quattro S tronic: R 769,500* (August 2015)

* Indicative pricing

All prices are inclusive of VAT and the standard Audi Freeway Plan (5 year/100 000km).