Q3 Sportback added to the Audi Q3 model range

This makes it the first compact crossover of the Audi brand. The all-new Q3 Sportback enters the Q3 model range as the halo and design vehicle, emphasising a sporty, practical and elegant positioning in the A-CUV segment of the premium passenger car market.

Low roofline and a muscular body: the design

The Audi Q3 Sportback is a car for customers who appreciate a sporty character as much as an expressive design.
The coupé-like passenger cabin acts as a contrast to the distinctive attachments, which are painted in contrasting silver and thus emphasise the SUV character.

The low roofline gives way to flat D-pillars and ends in a roof edge spoiler. As a result, the Audi Q3 Sportback appears much longer than its sister model Q3. In addition, the SUV-coupé is almost three centimetres flatter and thus has a sportier appearance.

Above the wheels, strong contours hint at the quattro drive, which is available on the Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI model. Audi supplies lighting options in two versions on this model. LED headlights and rear lights are standard on the vehicle with an option to upgrade to Matrix LED technology, whose adaptive high beam intelligently illuminates the road as best suits the driving situation.

The standard wheel size is 18 inch with an option to upgrade to a larger 19 inch for a further advanced look. Audi also offers the optional Black Styling Package which ensures an even more dynamic appearance as it makes the body appear even sportier thanks to the inclusion of dark surfaces on the bumpers.

Sporty on and off the road: the suspension

The Audi Q3 Sportback offers driving fun on various terrains. In the urban city, on long-haul road trips, or on easy off-road terrain – the compact crossover is a dynamic all-around performer. It features progressive steering as standard and a sport suspension (also standard).

Depending on the driving situation, road condition and personal preferences, the driver can vary the car’s characteristics via the standard dynamic handling system, Audi drive select. In six profiles, from markedly comfortable, highly efficient through to sporty and off-road mode.

TFSI engines, S tronic, quattro: the drive

For the Audi Q3 Sportback, two petrol engines are available on offer in South Africa. These two engine options are also offered across the Audi Q3 model range.

The 1.4 TFSI in the Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI delivers 110kW and 250Nm of torque from a four-cylinder direct injection unit with turbocharging. It uses a six speed S tronic transmission and produces a 0-100km claim of 9.3 seconds.

The Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI quattro S line is fitted with a 2.0 TFSI engine producing 132kW, 320Nm of torque and a seven speed S tronic transmission which allows it to sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds. In this model, the quattro all-wheel drive takes on the job of force transmission as standard and thereby makes for a more dynamic and stable drive.

Variable comfort: Interior and space concept

The Audi Q3 Sportback is one of the most spacious models in its segment.

The accentuated horizontal lines make the interior appear spacious and roomy. The Audi Q3 Sportback has been designed as a fully-fledged five seater. It offers comfortable entry, a good overview and a sporty seat position for the driver and front passenger.

The volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 530 litres to 1 400 litres. The loading floor can be adjusted to two levels, and the rear shelf is located beneath it. The storage and luggage compartment package is a further available option.

As part of the optionally selected Comfort Package, Audi will deliver an electric tailgate that can also be opened and closed with a foot motion. Included in this package, the front seats – electrically adjustable and heated – offer a sporty position and a high level of comfort.

A further attractive optional piece of equipment includes the two-piece panoramic glass sunroof when added to the vehicle, creates an advanced sportier appearance. The standard two-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning offers separate temperature distribution for the driver and front-passenger sides and for the rear.

Digital world: Displays and operation

The control and display concept of the Audi Q3 Sportback is progressive, logical and easy to understand. It also shows how Audi is pushing ahead with the digitalisation of its new models:

A digital instrument cluster (digital cockpit) with an 8.8-inch screen diagonal, which the driver operates via the multifunction steering wheel, comes with the integrated MMI touch radio plus as standard.

Customers have the option of replacing the digital instrument cluster with the Audi virtual cockpit, which allows them to switch between many information levels and multiple views. In the top-of-the-line system which part of the Technology Package, the Audi virtual cockpit plus comes with a 12.3-inch screen diagonal along with MMI Navigation Plus.

The standard Audi smartphone interface ensures interconnectivity between the car and smartphone. This integrates Android and iOS cellphones into the on-board infotainment system. The optional Audi phone box and the Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound complete this comprehensive offer.

Outstanding in any situation: the assist systems

In the Audi Q3 Sportback, a few systems are used for safety. These include the lane departure warning and the lane change warning. In an emergency, it causes full braking and initiates the Audi pre-sense basic safety measures.

Ultra-modern optional extra systems such as the 360-degree cameras offer assistance with parking and manoeuvring. The park assist automatically guides the car into and out of parking spaces.

Local packages: offering simplicity

The Audi Q3 Sportback will offer the package concept as introduced on other new models launched in South Africa. The concept aims to reduce complexity when ordering a new vehicle.

Pricing: 

Audi Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic R693 000
Audi Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI quattro S tronic R737 000
Both models come standard with the 5 year / 100 000km Audi Freeway plan, inclusive of all taxes.

Source: MotorPress