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The Audi Q3 is a premium mid-size SUV that has smart styling and a wonderfully easy-to-use interior featuring impressive technology. The current version (sold new since 2018) is very practical, with lots of interior space and a big boot. Any Q3 is easy to drive and gives a comfortable, relaxing ride. You also get lots of equipment and most versions don’t cost much more to run than the average hatchback.
The current Q3 has been sold since 2018 when it replaced an older version sold new from 2011 to 2018. The newer version is a bit larger and more practical, and features the latest gadgets. The older version isn’t as sharp-looking inside or out, or as spacious, but it’s family friendly and has a high-quality feel throughout. If you prefer SUVs with sleeker, more coupe-like styling, you may like the Q3 Sportback (sold new since 2019) – a sportier version of the latest model with a lower roof and different styling at the back.
All versions of the Q3 are available with an extensive range of ‘TFSI’ petrol and ‘TDI’ diesel engines with a choice of manual or automatic gearbox. Some models also have ‘Quattro’ four-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid option was added to the range in 2021 and there’s also the very fast RS Q3.
A number of well-equipped trim levels are available, including the sporty-looking S Line and the luxurious Vorsprung.
All versions of the current Q3 have a long list of standard features including sat nav, smartphone connectivity, climate control, cruise control and a digital driver’s display. High-spec models get extra features including heated leather seats and a sunroof. Older versions have many of the same features, although the infotainment systems aren’t as comprehensive.
According to official figures, the current Q3 gives average fuel economy of 28-44mpg with a petrol engine and 37-56mpg with a diesel engine. On paper, older models are actually more efficient, but that reflects a change in how fuel economy is calculated. Official figures for older petrol models give an average of 32-47mpg, with 50-62mpg for diesels. Vehicle Excise Duty (car tax) and insurance costs are reasonable for this type of car. The plug-in hybrid has a zero-emission electric-only range of up to 31 miles.
Q3 rivals include premium-badge cars such as the BMW X1 and Jaguar E-Pace and more cost-effective options such as the Nissan Qashqai. The current Q3 is a match for any of those, with a spacious, practical and beautifully made interior and reasonable running costs. Older Q3 models have less space in the back but they still give you a great premium family car experience.
The latest Q3 is a very practical car with plenty of space for four adults to be comfortable on a long journey, so most families should have all the room they need. The middle back seat is only suitable for occasional use, though. The boot is generous, with space for a few large suitcases, although the plug-in hybrid model has a smaller boot because of the space taken up by its batteries – you may have to ditch one of the suitcases. The older Q3 isn’t as spacious as the newer model, and its boot is about the same size as that of a small family hatchback.
The Q3 is the second model in Audi’s range of seven SUVs. It sits between the smaller Q2 and the Q4 E-tron electric car. The next biggest Audi SUV available with petrol and diesel engines is the Q5. At the top of the range are the seven-seat Q7, the sleek Q8 and the electric E-tron (not to be confused with the Q4 E-tron). The Q3 is also roughly the same size as the Audi A3 hatchback.
Both versions of the Q3 have a full five-star safety rating from safety organisation Euro NCAP. The latest version has a comprehensive set of driver safety features including blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist. The older version has some similar features as well.
Since 2021, the latest version of the Q3 is available with ‘TFSI e’ plug-in hybrid power featuring a petrol engine and electric motor. According to official figures, it has a zero-emission range of up to 31 miles and can give a fuel economy of up to 176mpg.