AUDI HAS PULLED the covers off the second-generation Q3 crossover, and this one is bigger than before.
This means there is a bigger difference between it and the Q2. With the use of the Volkswagen Group’s flexible MQB architecture, the Audi SUV line-up now follows a more logical size progression; Q2 to Q3 to Q5.
Compared with its predecessor, the new Audi Q3 has grown in virtually all dimensions, and is now 97mm longer, 25mm wider and 23mm higher. Its wheelbase has been stretched by 77 millimetres, creating more knee room, headroom and elbow room all around. Boot space has also increased by 70 litres and now totals 530 or 675 litres depending on the position of the rear seats and backrests – with the backrests completely folded down the capacity rises to 1,525 litres.
This new Q3 looks sportier and is more aggressively styled than its predecessor. The face has a large Singleframe grill in octagon design, which is divided by vertical bars, along with large air inlets. The sculpted, wedge-like lights can be had with Matrix LED tech and intelligent lighting for an added premium.
The cabin is high on tech and touchscreens. There are plenty of black gloss finishes and the all-new operating concept with MMI touch display is set against a high-gloss, glass-like black surround. Underneath this are the air conditioning controls and the whole area is tilted towards the driver, with all displays, buttons and controls said to be within easy reach.
The Q3 also allows you to stay even more connected to your phone offering via the myAudi app. This allows users to transfer navigation routes and smartphone calendar details to the MMI, as well as locate where the Q3 is parked.
Buyers will have a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel. The engines range from 1.5 litres to 2.0 litres, and power outputs go from 150hp to 230hp. Quattro four-wheel drive is an option, as is the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Sports suspension and adaptive dampers are also available as options. There’s also hill descent control and Dynamic Select with six driving profiles, which, Audi says, can vary the characteristics of the Q3 depending on the driving situation, road conditions or personal needs.
The new Audi Q3 will be available to order in Ireland from late 2018.
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