New quattro model joins Q3 range

Since its arrival in Australia last year, the second-generation Audi Q3 models have taken the legacy of the original Q3 to new heights, and the the arrival of the benchmark Q3 40 TFSI quattro adds even more power and Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel drive to an already compelling mix.

The new Audi Q3 and the completely new Q3 Sportback models have struck a chord with customers looking for a true luxury vehicle with the versatility of an SUV and an engaging driving experience.

As we reported when the new Q3 first arrived in Australia, calling it a ‘compact’ luxury SUV is somewhat misleading, as the second-generation of this hugely successful model has grown significantly both in its exterior and interior dimensions. 

Now 97mm longer and18mm wider than the first Q3 model and with a wheelbase stretched a considerable 77mm over the original, the second-generation Q3 is not just bigger but has considerably more presence.

It is now a more robust, muscular design and internally the cabin and storage space is even more generous than before. Five people are accommodated in absolute comfort and the multi-adjustable rear seats allow for the considerable stage room in the boot (530 litres) To be expanded to 675 litres or even a cavernous 1525 litres with the rear seats slid forward and laid flat.

This new Q3 model boasts all of these attributes and adds the surefooted feel of Audi quattro as well as a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine to the mix. It also sports a wealth of new equipment and is priced at $53,900* or $59,400* for the S line model, which adds exterior styling elements as well as special S line trim internally – but we’ll get to that shortly.

In terms of its performance, the 2.0 TFSI produces 132kW and 320Nm of torque for a 0 to 100km/h time of just 7.8 seconds. With its seven-speed S tronic and quattro all-wheel drive, it delivers superb grip in all conditions and manages to use just 8.3 litres of fuel per 100km.

The Q3 40 TFSI quattro rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, while the S line version gets 20-inch alloys as well as its distinctive S line exterior package, rear privacy glass and progressive steering to further enhance the driving experience.

There’s no denying the appeal of the Audi Q3 as a lifestyle choice. A beautifully appointed and fully connected luxury vehicle for the everyday, but with the size, performance and handling to take off for weekends or longer trips, carrying plenty of gear and five adults if needs be.

As impressive as the ride and handling though is the long list of standard equipment, which builds on the class-leading Q3 35 TFSI launched last year.

Inside the styling and layout is straight from the larger Q classes, and the fit and finish is as you would expect from Audi. 

Luxurious leather upholstery abounds and the front seats are also electric and feature lumbar support. Dual-zone climate control is of course standard, as is auto dimming interior mirror, multi-function leather steering wheel with shift paddles and Audi drive select. 

Infotainment and connectivity are real highlights of the Audi Q3 40 TFSI quattro, with features like the virtual cockpit, MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple Carplay technology and the innovative convenience of Audi connect plus. 

Keyless entry and start is also standard and the electrically-operated tailgate, complete with gesture control – literally just move your foot under the rear bumper to open – is something you’ll wonder how you ever survived without.

The Q3 40 TFSI S line quattro ups the ante even further, adding an Alcantara interior in steel grey with heated front seats that feature contrasting stitching and S embossing. The Audi virtual cockpit plus (12.3-inch screen) is also standard, as is a 180 watt Audi sound system with 10 speakers and subwoofer.

Beautiful little touches abound that make all the difference. Pedals are in stainless steel and inlays are in matt brushed aluminium and the door sills are illuminated. The leather multi-function wheel features the sporty flat-bottom design with shift paddles and perforated leather finish.

Top levels of safety and driver assistance are a given with the Q3 40 TFSI with its 5-star ANCAP safety rating and standard features including, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane change warning, rear cross-traffic assist, tyre pressure monitors, hill descent control, as well as a comprehensive suite of parking sensors and rear view camera. 

Once again the S line version adds even more features, with a 360-degree camera, high beam assist and park assist, as well as exterior mirrors with auto dimming functions and adaptive cruise assist (includes active lane assist and emergency assist). 

If that isn’t enough to satisfy though, there is also a Premium equipment package option available for the Audi Q3 40 TFSI quattro and a Premium plus package is available for the premium S line model. 

Customers can also elect the comprehensive Audi service plan for $1,610 for three years or $2,630 for five years, and as is now the case with all Audi models, the new Q3 models are available through Audi’s new online reservation system or of course in Audi dealer showrooms for those who have had enough of the great indoors. 

Learn more about the Audi Q3 models at audi.com.au

(*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges)