Details emerge on all-new Audi Q3

AUDI has released fresh details of its all-new Q3 SUV range ahead of the model’s European launch in September.

Offering a more spacious passenger cabin than before – and introducing the latest plug-in hybrid and internal combustion driveline technologies – the third-generation Audi Q3 also sports revised driver assistance technologies, updated LED and OLED lighting packages, and a heavily revised driver’s cockpit.

Audi says that when compared against its predecessor, the new Q3 is more muscular and emotional in its design, the body defined by “the perfect combination of rounded sections and precise lines”.

Much of that design has centred around improving the Q3’s aerodynamic performance, the front end reshaped to efficiently control airflow with minimal losses to drag (now 0.30 Cd). The Singleframe grille again dominates the vehicle’s frontal mask, sitting above a reshaped bumper that differentiate standard and ‘S’ model lines.

In profile, the Q3’s horizontal shoulder line, stretching from head- to tail-lights, creates an interplay of light and shadow, essentially dividing the car into two parts, says Audi. The rear haunches are intended to recall the original (Ur) quattro. Multiple alloy wheel designs are available in sizes ranging from 17- to 20 inches in diameter.

The rear of the vehicle is offered with optional OLED lighting complemented by a continuous LED Light strip between the tail-lights, and an illuminated Audi logo. The rear bumper is again offered in two designs, one for regular Q3 variants, and another for the sportier ‘S’.

Exterior trim garnishing in Selenite Silver or Black is available in addition to 11 paint colours. Arkona White is offered as the only solid hue, joining Glacier White, Mythos Black, Arrow Grey, Tambora Grey, Progressive Red, and Navarra Blue metallic finishes, and new colours Sage Green and Madeira Brown (matte). Daytona Grey is offered exclusively on S line variants.

Audi claims the lighting technology offered in the Q3 is the first in its segment, the package joined by digital Matrix LED lights with light guidance functions liked to the vehicle’s driver assistance technologies. LED daytime running lights are also offered, creating what Audi says are distinctive light signatures that make the Q3 “easily recognisable”.

Inside, and in addition to being more spacious than before, we find a new steering wheel control unit Audi says frees up more storage space on the centre console for cupholders and a wireless device charging pad.

Coupled with an all-new user experience, the design aims to provide a greater sense of space, the steering column wands providing control over gear selection, light functions, windscreen wiper controls, and the vehicle’s indicators.

Instrumentation and infotainment duties are performed by 11.9- and 12.8-inch screens, as well as a head-up display for “important information that supplements the digital displays”.

Indirect 30-colour ambient lighting adds a sense of occasion to the cabin at night, the space filled with optional Sonos premium sound offering 12 speakers and 420 watts of power.

As another segment first, Audi will now offer the Q3 with optional front side window acoustic glazing it says offers better acoustics (by reducing wind and road noise).

Audi will offer the Q3 with nine interior packages, including various trim garnishing and upholstery options in cloth, leather and microfibre.

Cargo space ranges from 488 to 575 litres, depending on the position of the reclining and sliding rear seat (from 530 litres previously), and to a total of 1386 litres all told, down from 1525 litres previously.

Braked towing capacity is listed at 2100kg across the range.

The latest generation Q3 range will open with the mild-hybrid TFSI 110kW combining an electric motor with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Featuring cylinder-on-demand technology, the unit is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive.

To be introduced “somewhat later”, the TFSI 110 will be joined by a TFSI quattro 150kW variant, again with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, but this time with all-wheel drive. It will be topped by a TFSI quattro 195kW variant at an unconfirmed date.

Additionally, Audi will offer a TDI 110kW front-wheel drive model with turbocharged diesel power and a standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It is understood this model will be offered from launch (in Europe).

Finally, and perhaps most interestingly, is the plug-in hybrid variant dubbed e-hybrid 200kW. Combining an 85kW electric motor with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the offering features a 19.7kWh (net) battery that allows 120km (WLTP) of all-electric driving range.

The variant can be charged from 10-80 per cent in less than 30 minutes when connected to a compatible 50kW DC fast charger.

Underneath, the new Q3 is suspended by the latest adaptive damping technology, the Q3 range offered in both Standard and Sports suspension tunes, depending on variant. Progressive rate steering is also offered as standard.

It will also offer Adaptive Driving Assistant Plus for the first time, adding greater autonomous driving capabilities to the range, including a driver monitoring camera, trained parking system, and reverse assistant to help drivers back out of tight spaces.

These features join an extensive list of active and passive safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assistance, 360-degree camera technology, and much more.

While local launch timing, specification, and pricing is still to be confirmed, Audi has advised that the new Q3 will be priced from €44,600 ($A73,190) when it goes on sale in Europe this September.

The current Audi Q3 range is available from $57,500 plus on-road costs.