Third time the charm in the Audi Q3
Since the original Q7 arrived on the scene, Audi's Q vehicles have seen steady growth in popularity and with good reason.
Autodealer editor Sean Nurse attended the international launch and local launch of the new model so with I quickly grabbed the keys when the blue Q3 35TFSI S line arrived at our office.
Exterior
First things first, the new Matrix LED headlights and the angular blacked-out front grille does provide for a dramatic and aggressive look up-front. The S line also features an aggressively sculpted front bumper to match. This theme continues to the rear of the vehicle with the combination of lamps and dynamic turn signals. I prefer the straight cut lines within the design when compared to the more rounded themes seen models of the past. Our test vehicle came with aggressive-looking 18-inch wheels which complimented the sporty nature of the vehicle.
Interior
While I can go on about the exterior styling, it is on the interior where you will be spending most of your time. One of the first elements you notice as you get into the driver seat is the digital instrument cluster. The 10.25-inch display now comes as standard equipment on the Q3 and provides the driver with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. Utilizing the multifunction steering wheel you can scroll through a variety of screens displaying your music library, navigation map or useful information about your fuel consumption.
The modern facia is also adorned with an 8.8-inch touchscreen installed with the MMI operating system. The rest of the interior is also not a bad place to be either with the full leather seat and Alcantara like inserts on the door panels. Although the vehicle is sporty it feels as though the interior wants you to sit back, set your dual-zone climate control system, choose your favourite track on the Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, activate the cruise control system and just let the kilometres roll by.
Under the bonnet
Powering the new offering from Audi is a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a six-speed S tronic transmission. This combination results in 110 kW and 250 N.m of torque being at your disposal and proved more than adequate even when taking on steep inclines. The Q3 returned an impressive combined fuel consumption figure of 6.8L/100km.
Verdict
Although some might say the R612 000 price tag of the Audi Q3 35TFSI S line is a bit steep, because of the S line package, the product does come with a lot of tech and personality. Although the motor is not whiplash-inducing fast, it does pack just enough punch to get things done, whether you are overtaking on a national route or tackling a dirt road incline in the countryside. Above all the Q3 will provide for a compliant and entertaining drive and that is enough for me.
