The new Audi Q3

MANILA, Philippines - Since its launch in fall 2011, the Q3 has been a successful model for the Audi brand. But Audi is also constantly improving good and successful models. The new Audi Q3 not only features a refreshed design, it also sports a number of technical innovations.

Engine

The TFSI four cylinder engine boasts higher output combined with reduced fuel consumption. CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 17 percent. It displaces 1.4 liters and produces 150 hp. The consumption and CO2 reductions are made possible in part by the Audi cylinder-on-demand (COD) technology. Thanks to its efficiency, the 1.4 TFSI COD bear the “Audi ultra” badge. COD technology is utilized when the car’s engine is performing at a relaxed pace, such as driving around town in light traffic, where the engine will shut off two of its four cylinders to decrease fuel consumption.

Chassis

The chassis of the redesigned Audi Q3 combines agile handling with supreme safety, and comprehensive fine-tuning has enhanced comfort even further. Audi drive select enables the driver to adjust key technology modules, including the optional active dampers, to suit his or her personal preferences. Wheels range in size from 16 to 20 inches in diameter, and the suspension has been tuned for high rolling comfort. Hill descent assist is available as an option.

Design

The premium character of the redesigned Audi Q3 is apparent at first glance. The Audi designers have honed the details of the coupe like lines with the characteristic wrap-around tailgate. Dominating horizontal lines up front and in the rear underscore the width and give the Q3 an expressive design.

The sculpted Singleframe grille is the defining element at the front of the car. At the top of the two new Q3 trim lines design and sport are the S line sport package, the S line exterior package, the Audi exclusive design package and the Audi exclusive exterior design package.

The redesigned headlights come standard with xenon plus technology and LED daytime running lights. The optional LED headlights are particularly bright and energy efficient. Audi offers them in combination with the dynamic turn signals integrated into the likewise redesigned LED taillights. These intuitive turn signals illuminate sequentially within two-tenths of a second from the inside out in the direction the driver intends to turn.

The base model of the new Audi Q3 has a curb weight of 1,385 kgs. The dimensions of the compact SUV are virtually unchanged. It measures 4.39 meters long, 1.83 meters wide, and 1.59 meters high. The wheelbase is unchanged at 2,600 mm.

Versatile

The Audi Q3 offers plenty of space at all five seating positions. Its clear ergonomics and the superior workmanship underscore the premium claim. In its base configuration, the cargo compartment of the Audi Q3 has a capacity of 460 liters (16.2 cu ft); by folding down the split rear seatbacks, this can be increased to 1,365 liters (48.2 cu ft). Many clever options make the SUV even more versatile and easier to use. These include the luggage compartment package, a pass-through and the power tailgate. Roof rails and a new, extensible luggage compartment cover are standard.

Equipment and trim

The new Audi Q3 features a generous list of standard equipment. This can be supplemented with features taken directly from the luxury class, such as the LED interior lighting package and the power-adjustable front seats. With respect to driver assistance systems, the secondary collision brake assist is standard. MMI navigation plus is the high end infotainment solution from Audi.

The seven speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, which transfers the power to the quattro drivetrain via a new hydraulic multi plate clutch (5th generation), has also been refined for even faster gear changes. The lower gears are closely spaced for sporty response while the seventh gear is tall to save fuel.