Bigger, sleeker, smarter
Say hello to the long overdue second-generation Audi Q3, a follow-up to the original model launched in 2011.
The 2019 Q3 offers not only a completely different look inside and out, but also more space and technology than its predecessor, as well as new powertrains.
More visual muscle
Styling-wise, the new Audi Q3 is not a surprise, particularly if you have seen spy shots and our artist’s surprisingly accurate rendering. It looks more muscular than the previous Q3 and it reminds of the bigger Q8 in that respect thanks to details such as the octagon design of the Singleframe grille flanked by large air inlets, the flared wheel arches, and the sleek headlights and taillights.
There are three different headlights on offer, all with LED technology, with the high-end versions offering the Matrix LED headlamps with adaptive high beam. Customizing options for the exterior include a contrasting paint finish for the attachments in the lower body section, the S line exterior package that brings sporty-looking bumpers, sill trims and diffuser, and the three packages that can be combined freely with three interior equipment lines.
Fully digital dashboard
Speaking of the interior, the 2019 Q3 adopts a fully digital dashboard with a driver-oriented design, with the highlights being the Audi virtual cockpit and the new MMI touch display infotainment system. The dash is split into two levels: the top part which includes the air vents, and the bottom section that incorporates the large octagonal area with a black panel look. As with other new Audis, the pushbutton module for the lighting functions replaces the rotary control of the previous Q3.
[NativeAd]There are three equipment lines available: the basic version, the Audi design selection and the S line interior package. Both optional packages include sport seats with available leather and Alcantara upholstery, and optional Alcantara surfaces on the instrument panel and on the door armrests. A contour/ambient lighting package (standard with Audi design selection) is also available.
Bigger on the outside and (especially) on the inside
While it looks cool, chances are customers will appreciate the cabin more for the space it offers than for its design. Thanks to the MQB platform it uses, the 2019 Q3 is now larger than before. It’s 4,485-mm (14.7-ft) long (+97 mm/3.8 in), 1,856-mm (6.1-ft) wide (+25 mm/1.0 in), and it has a wheelbase 77-mm (3.0-in) longer than before at 2,680 mm (8.8 ft). The increases result in a more spacious cabin that offers larger knee room, headroom (despite the 5-mm/0.2-in lower body), and elbowroom than before.
The luggage compartment offers between 530 and 670 liters of loading capacity, depending on the position of the rear seats — which can be moved fore/aft by 150 mm (5.9 in). Furthermore, the three-way split backrests (40:20:40) can be tilted in seven stages, which means finding a compromise between passenger comfort and cargo volume should be much easier than before. The adjustable loading floor (in three levels) with a lower loading sill that the previous Q3 certainly helps too. In total, the 2019 Audi Q3 can swallow 1,525 liters of cargo with the rear seats folded down.
Four engines, three suspension choices
At launch, the all-new Q3 will offer four engines (three gasoline and one diesel unit) in combination with front-wheel or quattro drive. All are turbocharged four-cylinder units and deliver between 150 to 230 metric horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed S tronic double-clutch gearbox are on the menu.
Audi drive select is optional, and it offers up to six driving modes for the throttle response, steering and shift characteristics of the S tronic, as well as the optional suspension with damper control. Customers can also opt for the sport suspension (standard with the S line exterior package) that brings firmer spring/damper tuning and progressive steering. The standard suspension has a McPherson setup at the front and a four-link design at the rear. Wheel options range from 17- to 20-inch aluminum rims.
Safety-wise, the highlight is the optional adaptive cruise assist which incorporates the functions of adaptive speed assist, traffic jam assist and active lane assist for semi-autonomous driving on motorways. Other available systems include park assist as well as four 360-degree cameras.
The 2019 Audi Q3 will be built at the Győr plant in Hungary and will arrive in European dealerships from November 2018.
READ MORE: Our in-depth review of the 2018 Audi A7 Sportback 50 TDI quattro