Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI Quattro manual 2012 review

BMW's X1 isn't going to have the compact, premium SUV segment all to itself with the imminent arrival of Audi's striking new Q3, a stablemate to Q5 and Q7. Not forgetting the stunning Range Rover Evoque that arrives this week. While the BMW has met with some success despite awkward styling, the new Audi (and Evoque) could ignite buyers passions for smaller, higher quality soft roaders. 

CREDENTIALS

STYLING

It features appealing Audi family styling and looks like an A3 on stilts or a scaled down Q5. When it arrives in the second quarter of 2012, add-on parts will be available in a number of variants.There is also a choice of two exterior packages.

BODY/CHASSIS

The entry-level Audi Q3 weighs 1,445 kilograms and features a rigid, safe and quiet occupant cell that integrates a number of ultra-high-strength steels. Both the bonnet and the tailgate are aluminium. Following on from the other Q models, Q3 has tail lights integrated into the tailgate, which wraps around the pillars.

The body aerodynamics rate a creditable 0.32Cd. It's a five seater and according to Audi "sets new standards for ergonomics and workmanship." The luggage compartment is 460 litres, expandable to 1,365 litres by folding the rear seats. Roof rails are standard and options are numerous allowing buyers to virtually customise their Q3 — if they are prepared to wait. Q3 comes generously equipped with goodies like the chorus audio system, air conditioning and a comprehensive package of restraint systems.

The chassis features a four-link rear suspension, electromechanical power steering and wheels measuring between 16 and 19 inches in diameter. An electromechanical parking brake and hill hold assist are standard, with hill-descent assist available later. Audi drive select enables the driver to adjust various technology modules, including the optional active dampers, in four stages to suit his or her individual driving style.

DRIVER ASSISTANCE

The range of driver assistance systems includes park assist that manoeuvres the vehicle into tight parking spots autonomously. All the driver has to do is apply the throttle and the brakes. Audi side assist employs radar to help change lanes, and Audi active lane assist makes slight steering corrections as necessary to help stay in the lane.

Infotainment components include an optional hard-drive navigation system (MMI navigation plus), which displays high-resolution 3D graphics on a fold-out 7.0-inch colour monitor. The Bose surround sound system delivers 465 watts of power to 14 speakers. Coming soon under the heading of Audi connect is the Bluetooth online car phone paired with a WLAN hotspot to provide the Q3 with Internet connectivity. The new Audi online traffic information service provides the driver with precise, current information about how heavy traffic is on the selected route.

LINEUP

One TDI turbodiesel and two TFSI turbo petrol engines from the Audi inventory. All are four-cylinders with direct injection with turbocharging, and will feature energy recovery system and start-stop. Power outputs range from 125 kW to 155 kW. A front drive turbodiesel is scheduled later.

The first models to arrive all get quattro permanent all-wheel drive and seven speed S-tronic dual clutch auto transmission. When coasting, it allows the Q3 to free-wheel when the "Efficiency" mode is operable. Local pricing and specification will be announced closer to the launch date.

AUDI Q3

Price: TBA
Body: 5-door, 5-seater sub-compact SUV
Engines: 2.0-litre turbo direct-injection petrol (125kW and 155kW), 2.0-litre turbo diesel (103kW and 130kW)
Models: 103kW TDI manual; 130kW TDI quattro S tronic; 125kW TFSI quattro S tronic and manual; 155kW TFSI quattro manual
Transmissions: 7-speed S tronic auto, 6-speed manual
Drive: Front or quattro all-wheel drive
Dimensions: 4385mm (L), 1831mm (W), 1590mm (H), 2603mm (WB)
Safety: 6 airbags (optional 8), ABS, ESP with electronic LSD, Drive Select, active lane assistance, side assistance, parking assistance, cornering headlights
Economy: 5.2L/100km (103kW TDI)

RIVALS

BMW X1 - compare this car
Star rating: Four stars out of 5
Price: from $46,100-$60,564
Engines: 130kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder,
Transmission: Six-speed manual, six-speed auto, rear-wheel and AWD
Body: Five-door wagon
Thirst: 5.3L/100km, 139g/km CO2 (130kW diesel)
 

Range Rover Evoque - compare this car
Star rating: Three and a half stars out of 5
Price: from $49,995-$75,895
Engines: 110kW/400Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder, 140kW/420Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel
Transmission: Six-speed manual, six-speed auto, AWD
Thirst: 5.0L/100km, 133g/km CO2 (110kW diesel), 6.5L/100km, 174g/km CO2 (140kW diesel)

Volkswagen Tiguan - compare this car
Star rating: Four stars out of 5
Price: From $28,490-$42,990
Engines: 118kW/240Nm 1.4-litre twin-charge petrol four-cylinder, 132kW/280Nm 2.0-litre turbo petrol, 103kW/320Nm 2.-litre turbodiesel, 147kW/280Nm 2.0-litre turbo petrol
Transmission: Six-speed manual, seven-speed auto, front and all-wheel drive