- For: Space, technology, image
- Against: Expensive, dull to drive
- Verdict: The archetypal premium compact SUV
The Audi Q3 is a car for our times. Blessed with a premium badge, yet with virtually no off-road talent, it’s exactly the kind of crossover SUV many buyers in 2022 aspire to own.
Prices start from around £30,000 for the standard (SUV-shaped) model, or £33,000 for the Q3 Sportback. Audi positions the Sportback as a coupe, but in reality it’s a Q3 with marginally sleeker styling and less rear headroom. Save yourself the added expense.
The core Q3 engine range consists of the 148hp 1.5-litre petrol and 150hp 2.0 diesel. Things get more interesting with the 245hp petrol (badged ’45 TFSI’) before culminating with the flagship RS Q3 – powered by a 400hp five-cylinder engine.
Our RS Q3 review said: ‘This is an easy and reassuring car to drive quickly, but what’s missing is that final frisson of driver engagement. Its steering feels aloof and the brittle suspension, instead of breathing with the road, does battle with it. The Porsche Macan still leads the pack here’.
All Q3 models boast a quality-rich cabin, the latest tech and Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit driver display. There’s also space for five adults, a large boot and a long list of options.
Sadly, the Q3 doesn’t drive with much panache, although the RS does offer a lot of bang for your bucks.
KEY INFO
- Launched: 2018
- Facelifted: TBC
- Due for replacement: TBC
Rivals: BMW X1, Volvo XC40, Mazda CX-5 2.5 AWD GT Sport Auto