The Audi Q3 is a compact 4×4 which follows AudiEUR(TM)s Q5 and Q7. Its main rivals are BMW X1, Ford Kuga and VW Tiguan. Q3 comes with high interior quality, aggressive looks and reliable Audi engines making it stand out. The entry level model is front wheel driven keeping the running costs low, for the customers who donEUR(TM)t want to have off road ability. Audi Q3 has the same looks of its elder siblings Q5 and Q7 just smaller in size. In comparison it has the same size of Ford Focus family hatchback.
The S line models come with LED lights as a standard, while SE comes with normal halogen lights with an optional upgrade for distinguishing Xenon design. The SE line models are more comfortable to drive, S line comes with alloy wheels and a firmer suspension compromising the comfort. Q3 comes in three Audi engine choices, 2.0-litre TFSI with 168bhp and 208bhp in petrols and the 2.0 litre TDI in diesel. Diesel engines are expected to take the most of the share of sales due to its efficiency and less carbon emissions than the petrols. Audi has never been famous for its dynamic handling but Q3 is the best effort yet when it comes to handling. Q3 is very engaging and easy to drive and equipped with twin clutch S tronic gear boxes.
Audi Q3 has a 5 star Euro NCAP rating, all the trims are equipped with six airbags and electronic stability control. There is large choice of optional safety kit like Speed Limit Display, Active Lane Assist, tyre pressure monitor and many more. Audi also offers many high tech features like rain and light sensors that automatically turn on the lights and wipers when required and a system that dims the back view mirror when it senses a high beam of light from a vehicle coming from behind. Cruise Control is also available as an extra. Though Audi cars are famous for their reliability, Q3 comes with a three year or 60,000 miles warranty for that extra piece of mind.
Like its other rivals- BMW X1 or Ford Kuga- THE Q3EUR(TM)s design isnEUR(TM)t really innovative or spacious. The room at the back is normal for a compact SUV, however the boot has a generous capacity of 460- litres which rockets to 1,365- litres once the rear seats are folded. Like BMW, there is a large transmission tunnel in the floor at the back, which does not allow much leg space for the passengers when travelling five up. Audi cars enjoy a strong resale value and this is the same with Q3, a big plus for private buyers. Q3 can achieve an average of 54mpg with 137 g/km of carbon emissions (front wheel driven with 138bhp diesel engine and manual gear box). Prices of Q3 are reasonable as compared to its rivals but if extras are chosen they turn out to be bit expensive.
