The second-generation Audi Q3 has just made its international debut, boasting bigger dimensions, better comfort and a high-tech cabin. The new premium compact SUV is expected to go on sale in Europe in November 2018 once production commences at the Gyor plant in Hungary.
The new Q3 has grown in all dimensions, now measuring 4,485 mm in length (+97 mm), 1,856 mm in width (+25 mm) and 1,585 mm in height (-5 mm) with a wheelbase of 2,680 mm (+77 mm). As a result, the cabin will now fit passengers more comfortably with more knee room, headroom and elbow room.
The designers have given the Q3 a more expressive look with the main highlight being the new Singleframe front grille that now spots eight vertical bars to divide the front opening. There are three versions of LED headlamps available on the Q3 including Matrix LED technology for the range-topping model.
Like any Audi models, the optional S Line package dresses the SUV with a more angular bumper, side sills and diffuser to achieve that sportier looks. A total of 11 paint colours are available along with the option for a contrasting paint finish for the lower body sections.
Audi’s high-tech cabin design from its higher tier models is also found in this baby SUV such as Audi Virtual Cockpit (10.25-inch or 12.3-inch), 8.8-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment display, MMI navigation plus with natural-language voice control, Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 15 speakers, 30 colour ambient lighting and panoramic glass sunroof.
Thanks to the increased interior space, the rear seats can now be moved fore/aft by up to 150 mm and can be tilted in seven stages for better rear seat comfort. Hence, boot space is now rated between 530 to 675 litres depending on the position of the rear seats.
Three petrol and one diesel engine are available with the Q3, with power outputs ranging from 150 hp to 230 hp. A six-speed manual is standard fitment while the seven-speed S Tronic dual clutch can be had as an option. Power is sent to either the front wheels or all four wheels via the Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Advanced driver assists systems that made its debut on the Q3 include Adaptive Cruise Assist which allows the Q3 to operate semi-autonomous by keeping the car at the desired speed while following the road contours. Other functions such as Park Assist, Cross Traffic Assist and Audi Pre Sense Front Safety System AEB are also available on the Q3.
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