The Audi Q3 is the brand’s second best-selling vehicle in the United States, so it’s redesign is big news. However, the stylish new look is just the tip of the iceberg as the third-generation model is also more luxurious and efficient.
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Starting outside, designers gave the entry-level crossover a more expressive and emotional design. The front end is dominated by wide Singleframe grille that is flanked by split lighting units.
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Digital daytime running lights reside up top and feature a pixelated design that has 23 segments per side. Customers can select between four different digital light signatures as well as customized approach/departure animations.
Digital Matrix LED headlights are located before and they have a micro-LED module, which promises to significantly improves illumination. Audi also mentioned some new safety features such as warning light when you signal your intention to switch into a lane that is currently occupied by another vehicle.
Moving further back, we can see curvaceous bodywork and pronounced wheel arches. The latter opening house 17- to 20-inch wheels, which are now 0.8 inches (20 mm) wider than before.
Elsewhere, there’s a gently sloping roof and an upward sweeping beltline. The latter meets a sporty rear pillar, which resides above muscular rear haunches.
The expressive design continues out at the rear with an illuminated Audi logo and available digital OLED taillights. We can also see an illuminated LED light bar and an angular rear window.
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Audi didn’t go into many specifics, but confirmed the crossover’s aerodynamic makeover results a lower drag coefficient of 0.30. The company also noted the model will be offered with an S line design, which has unique bumpers as well as selenite silver accents.
Interior
The interior has undergone a significant transformation, which as the eschews buttons and a traditional shifter. The latter has been replaced by a new lever on the right side of the new steering wheel.
More notably, the Q3 has supersized displays as the drivers sit behind a 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.8-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a revamped center console and a 15w wireless smartphone charger.
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Audi didn’t provide many details, but noted the model will be offered with an assortment of light packages that add ‘marker lights’ on the dashboard and center console. Customers can also get illuminated door panels, which feature 300 laser cut holes that are separated into five segments to show a “dynamic lighting progression.”
Other highlights include a 12-speaker Sonos premium audio system and an AI-infused Audi assistant, which appears as an avatar on the infotainment system. Customers can also get newly available acoustic glazing for the front side windows for a quieter driving experience.
In nod to the green movement, the Q3 incorporates a number of eco-friendly materials. This includes Impressum cloth made from 100% recycled polyester as well as velvet velour floor mats constructed out of Econyl, which is a “completely recycled nylon fiber made from old fishing nets, carpet remnants, and industrial waste.”
Rear passengers haven’t been forgotten as they’ll find a sliding seat with an adjustable backrest. However, it cargo is more important, there’s 17.2 cubic feet (488 liters) of room behind the second-row. However, it can be folded down to provide up to 48.9 cubic feet (1,386 liters) of cargo space.
Engines
An assortment of powertrains will be available as there are gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options. Starting with the petrol variants, there’s an entry-level 1.5-liter four-cylinder TSFI that produces 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). Customers can also get a 2.0-liter TSFI four-cylinder developing 261 hp (195 kW / 265 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque.
On the diesel side, there’s the Q3 TDI with 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to a seven-speed S tronic transmission and front-wheel drive.
The most interesting of the bunch is the Q3 e-hybrid, which features a 25.7 kWh battery pack as well as a combined output of 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). Audi didn’t go many details, but confirmed the model will have a WLTP electric-only range of up to 74 miles (119 km). The model also has a 50 kW DC fast charging capability, which can take the battery from 10% to 80% in less than half an hour.
Developing …