Debut of the new generation Audi Q3: branded design, micro-LED headlights, powerful PHEV hybrid
The appearance of the new third-generation Audi Q 3 crossover is very important news, because over 10 years of the model's existence, more than 2 million copies have been sold - it is one of the bestsellers for the company and one of the sales leaders within its C- class - SUV Premium. But the demands of buyers in this competitive class are constantly growing. What did the new Audi Q 3 crossover come with and what will it offer to maintain its high positions? Let's take a closer look.
Classic proportions, cutting-edge optics
A recently written phrase about the Cupra Terramar – that this body could be the basis for the Audi Q 3 – turned out to be correct: we see similar proportions, a similar slope of the front roof pillar, a wide rear pillar with a separate window and a roof “cut-off” line. And the dimensions are similar: length about 4.5 meters, wheelbase 2.68 meters.
With the change of generations, the car exchanged corners and straight lines for smoother and softer lines. Although the brand's huge Singleframe radiator grille is still in place, and to the right and left of it are two-story headlights: this has already become a tradition for most new Audi models.
However, the latest Audi Q 3 crossover still found an opportunity to stand out among other models of the company: it is the first to install micro - LED headlights. This technology uses a DMD module (small mirror particles) for such flexible light control that it is even possible to “draw” information with light on the road in the driver’s field of vision: for example, information about possible ice on the road or a warning about reckless lane changes.
In the cabin – new switches under the steering wheel and door lighting
The interior of the Audi Q 3 is also made in a style that is gaining popularity among the company's new models. It is a pair of connected displays that seem to surround the driver: an 11.9-inch screen is used as the instrument panel, and a 12.8-inch touchscreen is installed in the center. Below are ventilation deflectors, a row of buttons-switches, a center console with cup holders. But there is no transmission selector; where is it?!
The transmission control joystick is installed under the steering wheel on the right, as we have already seen on several of the latest VAG models. At the same time, this layout means combining the light switches and the wipers on the left switch. The latter is also made in an unusual shape – oh, so that it does not become an ergonomic problem…
But otherwise , the Audi Q 3 promises a well-thought-out and practical interior. For example, there is wireless charging with cooling (because a smartphone can heat up during charging), and the rear seats can move back and forth. And thanks to this, it is possible to win in the volume of the trunk - we have from 488 liters to 575 liters if the second-row sofa is moved forward. Interestingly, while working on practicality, interior specialists still did not forget about emotions. Proof of this is the door panels with internal color lighting, which shines through 300 small holes: it looks good!
Gasoline, diesel, hybrid
The Audi Q 3 crossover has been ready to offer a wide range of engines and two drive types since the beginning of its market career. The car starts with a 1.5 TFSI petrol turbo engine with a capacity of 110 kW or 150 hp, which works in tandem with a 7-speed S Tronic robotic transmission and front-wheel drive. A step above is the version with a 2.0 TFSI engine with a capacity of 195 kW or 265 hp, also in tandem with a 7-speed S Tronic robotic transmission, but with all-wheel drive - and this is currently the only version of the new product that offers the iconic quattro designation.
Of course, there was a turbodiesel. This is a 2.0 TDI engine with a capacity of 110 kW or 150 hp; plus again the S Tronic robotic gearbox and front-wheel drive. Although personally I do not rule out the appearance of other engine/transmission combinations for the Audi Q 3 in the future; for example, a combination of a turbodiesel and all-wheel drive.
Finally, the most technologically advanced and powerful version of the Audi Q 3 is the PHEV hybrid with its own designation e - hybrid. The combination of a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and an electric motor provides a total output of 200 kW or 272 hp, and a large battery with a nominal capacity of 25.7 kWh (actually 19.7 kWh is used) should provide up to 119 km of range exclusively on electric power.
Among other interesting technical achievements of the novelty, in addition to the latest super headlights and the aforementioned PHEV hybrid, several chassis options can be noted: a standard suspension, a stiffer sports suspension, as well as a suspension with two-valve shock absorbers. The latter allow for individual adjustment of stiffness during compression and rebound: this is not yet “pneumatic”, but it is already a rather interesting option for influencing driving performance.
Sales of the new generation Audi Q 3 crossover will start in Europe by the end of this summer. The cost is already known - for example, in Germany the price starts from 44,600 euros. A lot! And we are talking about the Audi Q 3 1.5 TFSI version , and the Audi Q 3 e - hybrid version will generally cost from 49,300 euros. Well, what can you say: at first glance, everything about the Audi Q 3 looks attractive, except for its price.