Audi Q3

• Rating:
• For : Premium badge, classy interior, capable chassis
• Against : Conservative styling, pricy options, small model range

Styling

If you’re familiar with the Audi Q5 and Q7 you’ll know exactly what to expect from the Audi Q3. It looks like a smaller version of its larger stablemates, with short overhangs and a rounded roofline. It’s comparable in size to a mainstream family hatchback like the Ford Focus but the trademark Audi grille and badge provide premium appeal. Beware, though, as the signature LED lights don’t come as standard across the range - SE models do without the distinctive designs unless you tick the box for the costly Xenon headlamp option.

Driving and Performance

We recommend the SE models, as they strike the best compromise between comfort, agility and refinement. Top spec S line trim adds larger alloy wheels and firmer suspension, which is bad news for ride comfort. Diesel engines will account for the lion’s share of sales, and it’s easy to see why. There’s nothing especially wrong with the 168bhp and 208bhp 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engines - both are smooth and torquey - but they’re also thirsty and polluting compared to the diesels. Dynamic handling is not a traditional Audi trait, but the Q3 is one of its best efforts yet. It’s not as engaging as the Ford Kuga, but it’s incredibly capable and easy to drive; the twin clutch S tronic gearboxes are brilliant.

MPG and running costs

Private buyers can always rely on strong resale values from Audi and the Q3 is no exception - it will hold onto its value more effectively than most of its rivals. If economy is your major concern, the 138bhp diesel Q3 is for you. It only comes in front-wheel-drive form and with a manual gearbox, and this results in CO2 emissions of 138g/km. The S tronic gearboxes also come with a new ‘coast’ function when you add Audi Drive Select as an option. It disengages drive when you lift off the throttle to boost economy. Audi Q3 prices are reasonable compared to premium rivals, but its options are costly. Still, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity come as standard across the range.

Practicality

The Q3 isn’t especially innovative or spacious, but neither are the BMW X1 or Ford Kuga, so it’s comparable to most of its rivals. Rear passenger space is average for the class, but the 460-litre boot is generous. The split rear seats don’t lay completely flat, but folding them liberates up to 1,365 litres of space. There’s a large transmission tunnel in the floor between the back seats, so rear foot space is crowded when travelling five-up, but that’s also a problem in the BMW. Novel touches include the option of a flat folding front passenger seat, which makes it possible to accommodate extra-long loads inside.

Safety and reliability

A five-star Euro NCAP rating makes the Audi Q3 a confidence-inspiring choice. It comes with six airbags and electronic stability control as standard, and there’s a host of hi-tech safety kit on the options list. This includes everything from a Speed Limit Display, to keep you informed of the limit, to Active Lane Assist, which helps to maintain the vehicle’s position in its lane. High spec S line models feature Xenon headlamps as standard. Audi is famed for the solid build quality of its cars so the Q3 should prove to be reliable. It comes with a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty and three years' RAC breakdown cover.