Q3 Sportback arriving in March

Hot on the heels of the Australian launch of the new Audi Q3, comes the confirmation that its all-new sibling, the Q3 Sportback will touch down in March and add a new dimension to the compact, luxury SUV ranks.

While the second generation Q3 is quite a departure from its hugely successful predecessor, the Q3 Sportback represents a completely new model within the range, combining all of the attributes of its Q3 sibling with its own unique, coupé-like styling. This marriage of elements – arresting design, luxury appointment and advanced technology – make for a vehicle that build on tremendous legacy of the Audi Q3 and gives customers in this segment even greater choice.

“In a single generation, the Audi Q3 established itself as the benchmark in its class, underlined by its enduring popularity throughout its lifetime,” says Paul Sansom, Managing Director of Audi Australia.

“The new model is stronger in every conceivable area, and the very first Q3 Sportback offers an even more expressive alternative for buyers. The growing share of the premium compact SUV segment shows no sign of slowing down and so the Q3 Sportback is absolutely the right car at the right time for the Australian market.”

Audi first developed its now famous ‘Sportback’ design in vehicles such as the Audi A5 and A7 Sportback model ranges, but the Q3 Sportback represents the first time the Sportback design – that sweeping coupé line racing down to the C-pillar – has been used in the Audi Q range. The result speaks for itself, in a vehicle that is both longer and slightly lower than its Q3 sibling, giving it an unmistakable presence on the road. Large wheel arches add to the impression of solidity as well as accommodating the huge 19-inch alloy wheels, and the S line exterior styling which will be standard on Australian vehicles add further, subtle refinements to the styling that in true Audi style, enhance the overall impression without screaming for attention.

The sporty bias is unmistakable, and despite the coupe-like design, this is still a luxury conveyance for up to five adults. Its 530 litres of luggage space (like the Q3), which can be increased up to 1400 litres by manipulating the rear seats which can be moved fore and aft thanks to their split fold 40:20:40, giving it tremendous versatility for the active modern lifestyle.

Arriving in March, the Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI S line model will represent the entry model, at $49,900* with its 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine producing 110kW and 250Nm. Working with the silky smooth six-speed S tronic transmission with power down through the front wheels, it dispatches the 0 to 100km/h dash in 9.3 seconds and returns 7.3 litres per 100km (CO2 emissions are 167 grams per km).

This model will be joined soon after initial launch by the 40 TFSI quattro S line model, which produces 132kW of power and 320Nm of torque with its 2.0-litre TFSI powerplant. Mated to a seven-speed S tronic transmission, it will also add quattro all-wheel drive to the equation which further enhances the vehicle’s driving dynamics.

There will also be a special Launch Edition is available at market launch priced at $56,450*, which will include additional equipment highlights like metallic paint, privacy glass, black exterior styling package, folding/heated exterior mirrors, high-output Audi sound system, auto dimming interior mirror, colour interior lighting package, electric front seats with electric lumbar support, heated front seats, a 360-degree parking camera, as well as Adaptive cruise assist, with active lane assist and emergency assist.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves in terms of the impressive equipment that will be offered with the Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI S line model from launch. Quite aside from its distinctive styling, the Q3 Sportback boasts the finest in luxury finish and appointment and of course state-of-the-art infotainment and connectivity.

Audi’s virtual cockpit takes centre stage in the beautifully appointed cabin, while technology highlights such as MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, DAB+ digital radio, natural language voice control gives the driver complete control over all vehicle and entertainment functions.

A combination of USB-A and USB-C charging points allow for any number of scenarios for passengers, while Apple Carplay, Audi phone box light with wireless smartphone charging and dual simultaneous Bluetooth phone connection essential make the Q3 Sportback a mobile communications centre.

Indeed the level of convenience possible through high-speed internet is even further enhanced through Audi connect plus, which offers a suite of features which literally connect the vehicle to its environment. These are too many and varied to list, but think real-time traffic information and avoidance options, local fuel prices, weather updates, parking space availability and even local restaurant recommendations.

It goes without saying that the Q3 Sportback has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating and boasts an impressive array of driver assistance safety systems. Amongst the standard inclusions are 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.

Impressive across the board, the Q3 Sportback offers myriad options to those with a busy and active lifestyle, but without giving anything away in terms of its luxury appointment or presence. This is a vehicle that is as comfortable in the forecourt of a fine hotel as it is heading into the country for a remote weekend away – and everything in between. A perfect marriage of style and substance.

Learn more about the Audi Q3 Sportback

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

(Overseas model shown)