Audi’s baby Q model – the Q3 (including the RS Q3) – has received an update with minor cosmetic changes, the introduction of a new 1.4-litre 110kW entry level model and increased engine performance for the range topping RS Q3.
Audi has managed sell over 5000 Q3’s locally since 2012 meaning the compact premium SUV segment is a lucrative and hotly contested segment for the German brand.
The Q3 is the first Audi model to feature the new Q-inspired design cues which will be rolled out to future Q models, featuring a more imposing 3D-design front grille, revised bumpers and headlights, as well as a revised rear bumper and taillight design.
Full LED headlights are offered as an option for the first time on this model and are particularly bright while managing to be more energy-efficient.
The two TFSI and one TDI engine boast higher output combined with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 17 percent. The first of the petrol engines is a new 1.4T FSI now available for the first time in the Audi Q3. It produces 110 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque and will be available locally in both manual and S-Tronic guise.
The second petrol engine on offer is a 2.0T four-cylinder unit producing 132 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque. This model features Audi’s legendary Quattro system and will only be available in S-Tronic transmission.
On the diesel front, there will be a 2.0 TDI engine offering 135 kW of power and 380Nm of torque. It will be available in July 2015 and will feature the Quattro system and S-Tronic transmission as standard. A 2.0 TDI 110 kW front wheel drive S-Tronic model will be available in 2016.
The Audi RS Q3 has also been updated with the rest of the range. The compact performance SUV is now more dynamic than ever. Its 2.5 litre, five-cylinder engine now produces 250 kW (22 kW more than the previous model) and 450 Nm of torque. The top model in the series now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. An RS exhaust system with a switchable flap adds even more volume to the unmistakable sound of the five-cylinder engine.
The new Audi Q3 features a generous list of standard equipment. Secondary collision brake assist is standard and a host of other systems available as options. Audi side assist features a yellow LED indicator which illuminates in the housing of the outside mirror if another vehicle is in the blind spot or is approaching rapidly from the rear. Audi active lane assist works with video cameras that detect the lane markings. It gently intervenes in the steering to help the driver return to the lane if he or she comes too close to a line without indicating.
Pricing:
1.4T FSI 110kW manual
| R402,500.00 |
1.4T FSI 110kW S-Tronic
| R419,500.00 |
2.0T FSI 132kW Quattro S-Tronic
| R499,000.00 |
2.0 TDI 135kW Quattro S-Tronic
| R515,000.00 |
| RSQ3 2.5T FSI 250kW Quattro S-Tronic (Indicated August 2015) | R769,500.00 |
