The design of the Q3 is classic Audi: its coupe-like styling
is one-of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity. Distinctive
lights add a striking touch and the very flat-set rear window emphasize the
sporty nature of the Audi Q3. Thanks to systematic lightweight design, the
basic version of the Audi Q3 weighs less than 1,500 kilograms (3,307 lb).
Its engine hood and wraparound tailgate, which houses the taillights, are
made of aluminum; the safe and solid passenger compartment features a great
many ultra-high-strength steels. Its low drag coefficient of just 0.32 also
enhances fuel efficiency considerably. The interior of Audi s latest
mod el is very roomy; its ergonomics and its workmanship are exemplary. Just
as for the exterior, customers have many opportunities to express their very
own style in the interior: Audi offers a wide selection of materials and
colors. The luggage compartment offers 460 to 1,365 liters (16.24 to 48.2
cu ft) of capacity ideal for sports and leisure. Customers can opt
to supplement the standard specification with numerous options straight from
the luxury class. Examples include adaptive light technology for the xenon
plus headlights, which ideally illuminates the road ahead even around
corners. And an enhanced parking assistant alerts the driver to obstacles,
even if they are off to the side.
Furthermore, Audi offers an entire set of infotainment components,
spearheaded by the large MMI navigation plus a hard drive navigation
system and the Bose surround sound system, with handsomely illuminated
woofers up front. In the near future, an online Bluetooth car phone will
follow, paired with a WLAN hotspot to provide the Q3 with full Internet
connectivity. This compact premium SUV by Audi will roll off the assembly
line with three different four-cylinder engines: one TDI and two TFSI units.
All three will combine direct injection with turbocharging, and will feature
not only an energy recovery system but also a start-stop system. With power
outputs ranging from 103 kW (140 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), these engines will
be as efficient as they are powerful. The basic version, the Q3 2.0 TDI,
is scheduled to appear a little later and with 103 kW (140 hp) and
front-wheel drive will average less than 5.2 liters of fuel per 100
kilometers (45.23 US mpg). The most powerful gasoline engine and diesel engine,
respectively, will be paired with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and a
seven-speed S tronic, which switches gears at lightning speed. And the S
tronic features an innovation: during coasting, the dual-clutch transmission
disengages the clutch and allows the Q3 to roll freely provided that
the driver has selected efficiency mode in the optional Audi drive select
system. This measure also boosts fuel efficiency. Drivers can use the four
modes of Audi drive select to have various systems adjust to their individual
driving style; these include engine management and the optional adaptive
dampers. The chassis of the Q3 featuring a four-link rear suspension,
electromechanical power steering, and robust wheel brakes is the fruit
of great design labor. The hold assist function is an available option; down
the road, the hill hold assist system will be made available. The Audi Q3
will go on sale in June. Its basic price in Germany will be 29,900 euros. |