New Audi Q3 45 TFSI e plug-in hybrid joins the range

Audi has pulled the wraps off a new plug-in hybrid Q3. Badged the 45 TFSI e, it goes on sale in spring next year acting as a direct competitor for the Range Rover Evoque PHEV and Volvo XC40 Recharge T5.

Powered by the Volkswagen Group’s tried-and-testing plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Q3 has a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, a 114bhp electric motor and a 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Together, they deliver a total output of 242bhp with a maximum of 400Nm of torque.

The powertrain gives the Q3 a claimed 0–62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. Audi also says that the plug-in model can cover 31 miles on electric power alone, at a maximum speed of 87mph. Official fuel economy and emissions figures are yet to be confirmed.

Audi will throw-in a free Type 2 charging cable with every model sold – and, when it’s connected to a domestic AC wallbox charger, the Q3 45 TFSI e will recover a full charge in three hours and 45 minutes. Audi also offers access to its public charging network, which provides buyers with an RFID tag and a monthly invoice for the electricity consumed.

Buyers can have the powertrain on either the standard Q3 or the Q3 Sportback coupe-SUV – and both options will be available with a choice of four trim-levels. The entry-level Technik variant comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen – both featuring unique graphics to reference the new powertrain.

Audi’s sporty S line model features 19-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and piano black trim inlays for the dashboard. Buyers will also get a more aggressive styling package that features a new front bumper, deeper side skirts and a fresh rear diffuser.

Rather unsurprisingly, the Black Edition model features black replacements for the Q3’s radiator grille, roof rails, window brightwork and door mirror caps. Inside, buyers get a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The range-topping Vorsprung variant builds on this specification with 20-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, a panoramic glass sunroof and adaptive dampers. There are a few more upgrades inside, such as a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, electric seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad and a larger 12.3-inch display mounted ahead of the driver.

What do you make of the new Audi Q3 TFSI e PHEV? Let us know in the comments section below…