New Audi Q3 rethinks major drive controls

You’re looking at one of the most important models for Audi, its all-new third-generation Q3. This key model is a big seller, with over two million retailed since 2011. The latest offering shows off new styling and a premium interior that includes indicator buttons.  

Following the Edition 1 release, expect a range of different trim levels. A Sportback variant will also join the range soon. As to SQ3 or a RS Q3 variants, Audi is staying mum for the moment. But with the five-cylinder RS Q3 engine retired because of emissions regulations, expect something electrified in its place.

What powers Q3?

The Q3 utilises VW’s MQB platform, as before, giving it a transverse engine layout and front-wheel drive on many models. Despite resembling the Q5, there’s little in common between them. Q3 utilises many of the A3’s powertrain options, including a PHEV unit. That comprises a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine matched with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The engine utilises the Miller combustion cycle for improved efficiency and power and torque delivery that’s better suited to working alongside an electric motor. 

Said motor is mounted between the engine and transmission, feeding power through the gearbox. It is juiced by a 25.7kWh battery, so expect  around 120km of EV-only running. System output is an even 200kW with 400Nm. 

Read our review of Audi S5 Avant here.

Expect also base mild hybrid variant, and a 2.0 turbodiesel. A pair of 2.0-litre petrols will feature quattro AWD as standard. The others are front-wheel drive and use a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Design and interior 

For design, think shrunken Q5. There’s a new single frame grille while slimline lights incorporate DRLs and indicators. The main lights are hidden below and have optional matrix beams.

The rear takes cues from the new A6 Avant, with complex upper elements and a slim light bar. There’s an illuminated four-ringed badge. 

Wheel sizes range from 17- to 20-inches, with aero-optimised options available. There are Sport and S-Line body styles too. 

Cabin a marked change 

It’s an all-new arrangement inside. A dual-screen display reminds of the Q5’s only here it’s smaller, featuring an 11.9-inch display for the driver, and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the centre.

There’s a new and simplified menu structure, the shortcut panel no longer offered. There’s a collection of menus, and a set of climate functions at the base of the screen. 

Below the screen are key switches for the drive modes and the volume knob. Gone is the old gear selector, replaced by a stalk behind the wheel on the right. In the place of the gear lever is a pair of cupholders and a Qi charge pad. 

Indicators and wipers are on the left, on a wraparound panel that sits behind the steering wheel. Indicators now operate on a rocker panel, while the wipers are activated by a scroll wheel. Audi calls the panel the ‘steering wheel control unit’. 

The stereo option is a Sonus system rather than Bang & Olufsen. 

Boot space is a generous 575L, expanding to 1386L with the second row compacted. The rear bench is also on sliders.