Audi Q3 (2014)

Audi has finally launched the Q3 mini SUV at the Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi. It was launched by none other than Katrina Kaif on 5th January, 2012 (Media Day). Audi Q3 will compete with the likes of BMW X1, the base variant is priced at Rs. 26.21 lakhs and top variant is priced at Rs. 31.49 lakhs. In terms of looks and styling it has typical Audi styling featuring huge front grille, LEDs in headlamps and tail lights. It looks much better and proportionate in comparison to BMW X1 and other SUVs in this segment. Mr. Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India says: “Going by the initial excitement that the Audi Q3 has raked up it is clear that it is not only the high-flying jetsetters who are driving the Audi Luxury but it is also a hot favourite with the young go-getters that want a slice of the Q-Life.

Exterior

Tough, influential, active these are distinctive qualities that Audi Q3 has to offer. Its advanced design is strongly integrated into the Audi's design language. The brand is known for collaborating many ideas and developments from its demo cars to production vehicles. Audi Q3 takes up the concept of the Cross Coupé Quattro show car presented in 2007. Its dimensions express the energetic lines in numbers. The coupe-like rooftop line and the sharply inclined D-pillars give Audi Q3 a thoroughly athletic silhouette. The upper curves of the single-frame radiator grille are oblique, and the frame is dominated by perpendicular elements and two lines going up on the side over into the engine hood. The large air inlets and the parallel bars emphasize the powerful appearance of the compact SUV and typical fog lights.

Like the Q5 and the Q7 which are both considered as Q3’s bigger brothers, Audi Q3’s headlights are pointed and are deeply set into the body. The turn signals are placed behind an intricate front vapour layered with aluminium. Just like almost all Audi vehicle models, daytime running lights are standard with the typical halogen headlights. There is an optional exception with xenon plus units, wherein the daytime active lights are applied as two light-emitting diodes that together consume only 10 watts and whose light is emitted via a light guide. The light guide forms a flat, U-shaped hook that is open outside. The headlights can be combined with an optional high-beam assistant which is an innovation in the compact SUV segment. It uses a tiny camera to sense other vehicles and mechanically changes between high and low beams. It has other high-end options which are the adaptive light and the vibrant cornering light. As the society continually changes its demands, Audi is putting forward a new market segment.

The Audi Q3 is a premium SUV that comes in a compact-class form. It is athletic, yet well-organized and useful. It is a vehicle that is so comfortable whether on or off the road. Every feature of the Q3 displays Audi technology through its sleek body, exceptional drivetrain, quality chassis and multimedia systems. Many of its features used to be found only in luxury class cars. The Audi Q3 is the newest member of the big and growing Audi family. The coupe-like lines are an expression of its sporty charm. Sharp edges elegantly surround the arched sheet metal exteriors, and distinctive lights emphasize the front and back. The pointed headlights are also available with xenon plus units and LED daytime active lights, which Audi can also mix with LED tail lights. The low roof line and the very flat D-pillars highlight the dynamics of the Audi Q3. It is safe and quiet occupant cell combines a quantity of ultra-high-strength steels. Both the machine hood and the tailgate are made of aluminium. Just like typical Q models from Audi, the undivided tail lights are combined into the tailgate, which is knotted around the pillars. With just 0.32, the coefficient of grind is unusually low.

Interior

The Audi Q3 offers enough space for five adult passengers and has set new standards for workmanship and ergonomics. A wide range of colors and materials for the inner part offers customers many possibilities for customizing the car according to their own style. The wrap-around is a large arc spreading from one front door to the other which is a design feature borrowed from larger Audi models in this series. The baggage compartment of this compact SUV has a volume of 460 litres or 16.24 cubic feet, which can be expanded up to 1,365 litres or 48.20 cubic feet by folding down the split back seats. The roof rail has many useful options, including a luggage compartment and a pass-through hatch which makes Audi Q3 even more multipurpose and convenient for travel and everyday use.

Comfort and Convenience

The Audi Q3 comes with a long list of standard equipment, including the air conditioning, chorus audio system and a complete package of restraint systems. Audi Q3 also offers a choice of elective equipment which is usually available from luxury class cars, including the high-beam assistant, the panoramic glass roof, the LED interior lighting package, power-adjustable front seats and the adaptive light system for the xenon plus headlights. The variety of driver assistance systems made Q3 redefine the compact SUV class. The park assist system assists the vehicle into tight parking spots independently so there drivers can have peace of mind even if they have a limited view of the side mirror.

It also detects and cautions the driver if there are any obstacles to the sides. Audi side assist works like a radar to help the car easily change lanes, while the Audi active lane assist makes slight steering corrections to keep drivers within the lane. The speed limit display identifies and presents important traffic signs so drivers can avoid violations and accidents. For added convenience, Audi is working on installing Bluetooth online car phones into Q3 models. These phones can be paired with a WLAN hotspot for Internet connectivity. This will help drivers navigate directions easily through the new Audi online traffic information service which provides the driver with detailed and current information about heavy traffic on selected routes.

Engine

The petrol model is powered by a 2.0 litre TFSiq engine which generates maximum power of 211 bhp. The diesel model is powered by a 2.0 litre TDi engine generates maximum power of 177 bhp with maximum torque of 380 nm. The engine is mated to a 7 speed dual clutch DSG automatic gearbox.

Variants

Audi Q3 is available in three variants: Petrol, Diesel Base Grade and Diesel High Grade. Base grade comes with 16-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels, halogen headlamps, manual AC, rear parking sensors and cruise control. The High grade comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail lamps and xenon headlamps, automatic climate control and a panoramic glass-sunroof.

Shades

Audi Q3 is available in eight shades: Brilliant Black, Phantom Black (Pearl Effect), Cobalt Blue (Metallic), Amalfi White, Glacier White (Metallic) and Ice Silver (Metallic).

Main Features

Electrically adjustable, foldable and heated outside rear-view mirrors, Front centre armrest, Additional front under body guard, Rear parking system, cruise control, Voice control, Front fog light, roof rails, space saving spare wheel, Driver information system, Audi music interface, Concert radio with single CD, 4-spoke leather wrapped multifunctional steering wheel and Anti-theft protection wheel bolts

Verdict

Audi Q3 can be a good choice if you are looking for a car that is more compact that bigger Audi models. On the other hand, you may try to look at options first before deciding to purchase since there are new features to be added on the next Audi models.