The New Audi Q3 Will Be Your Dynamic Driving Partner and Digital Companion

[Source: Audi]

The third-generation Audi Q3 is here, and it is setting new standards in design, technology and driving dynamics. The Q3 is available in both SUV and Sportback configurations. Highlights include revamped suspensions, digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LED technology, a new steering wheel control unit and more. The new Q3 promises improved efficiency, driving dynamics, and comfort.

The Q3 is one of the best-selling models in the Audi lineup so getting the new generation right is critical for the brand. Audi is moving the Q3 forward with powerful and efficient engines and improved driving dynamics while also blessing it with the driving assistance and lighting technology from their more expensive models.

Efficient Engines

The new Audi Q3 will feature a partially electrified combustion engine with mild-hybrid technology and a plug-in hybrid model. In the German and European markets the base engine will be the 1.5 TFSI four-cylinder gasoline engine with mild hybrid technology and standard seven-speed S tronic transmission. It is good for about 148 horsepower. Above that is the 2.0 TFSI with 201 horsepower that is routed through quattro all-wheel drive. The top combustion engine is another 2.0 TFSI but tuned for 261 horsepower. A diesel Q3 is also available in these markets.

The plug-in hybrid combines the 1.5 TFSI engine with an electric motor. The result is a combined output of 268 horsepower. This setup will be good for a range of up to 119 kilometers (74 miles) of purely electric driving.

Lighting the Way

Audi has long been known for their lighting technology and they are bringing a helping of it over to the new Q3. The new Q3 is the first Audi to use the micro-LED module. There are 25,600 micro-LEDs on the module, which is approximately 13 millimeters wide. Each individual micro-LED is around 40 micrometers in size, which is about half the thickness of a human hair. Illumination is significantly improved, and the light guidance functions are now much more closely linked to the driver assistance functions. The digital daytime running lights with LED technology, consisting of 23 segments per side, create distinctive light signatures that make the vehicle easily recognizable on the road.

The rear is adorned with optional digital OLED rear lights, complemented by a continuous LED light strip and the illuminated rings. A total of 36 different segments are divided into six digital OLED panels, which enable digital rear light signatures.

On the Inside

The new steering wheel control unit integrates two new steering column levers for the first time. The lever on the right serves as a gear selector, the one on the left as a control element for the light functions and windshield wipers. This frees up space in the center console. Also, for the first time in the compact segment at Audi, it is possible to order acoustic glazing for the front side windows, which makes for better interior acoustics, particularly at high speeds. 

Trunk volume is 17.2 cubic feet. Fold the rear seats down and that expands to 48.9 cubic feet. The Sportback is slightly smaller with a total storage size of 45.5 cubic feet. The interior design and functionality have been significantly improved overall in the new Q3.

Underneath the New Audi Q3

Audi has made some changes to the suspension of the new Q3 models to ensure the driving dynamics are better than ever. The suspension systems available are the steel-spring suspension, the sports suspension, and the suspension with two-valve damper control. The suspension with damper control continuously reacts to the characteristics of the road surface and the current driving situation, while taking into account parameters such as steering, braking, and acceleration.

The refined progressive steering also contributes to the agility of the new Audi Q3. It doesn’t work too directly, but very precisely from the center. Towards the end of the steering travel, the steering ratio decreases significantly for greater maneuverability. The steering inputs are transmitted more directly to the wheels. What’s more, the steering response behind the wheel can be experienced more clearly, and feedback from the road is better. Reduced friction provides better steering feel.

Launch and Pricing

The third-generation Audi Q3 will be launched in October of this year on the German and European markets. Orders can be placed now. The entry-level price is starting at 44,600 euros for the SUV and 46,450 for the Sportback. The plug-in hybrid model starts at 49,300 euros with the Sportback costing 51,150 euros.

The new Audi Q3 is thoroughly reworked. To find all of the detailed information on the new model click HERE. As we learn more information about the U.S. launch we will be sure to share it with you.