Audi Q3 2019: reviews, rivals, pricing and UK release date
Can the new compact crosser rival the BMW X2 and the Range Rover Evoque?
A new version of Audi’s Q3 is about to go on sale. The new car is the second-generation model of the company’s compact SUV.
The first Q3 arrived in 2011 at a time when the crossover market was sparsely populated, says Autocar. In recent years, however, the segment has “exploded” and this means the new Q3 faces tough competition.
The main rivals are the new BMW X2 and Volvo XC40, the magazine says, but Land Rover is expected to launch an updated version of its Evoque in the near future that will no doubt spice up the competition.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
So can the new Q3 give its rivals a run for their money?
Here’s what the critics have to say:
Reviews
Autocar calls the Q3 a “mixed bag” and says the new car has a few issues that Audi should have “nailed” before its launch.
The magazine objects to the car’s “disappointing” turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. While the new Q3 “moves along happily” on urban roads, the engine sounds as if it’s being worked hard at low speeds and revs in a “deeply unhappy fashion” above 4,000rpm.
But things start to improve when you head inside the new SUV.
That’s because the Q3 comes with extensive equipment, even in the entry-level models, says Top Gear. Standard kit includes Audi’s Virtual Cockpit display, which swaps the conventional analogue dashboard for a digital version, as well as a 10in high-resolution touchscreen integrated into the centre console.
In addition, base-spec cars are equipped with LED headlights, a blind-spot warning system and lane-keep assistance thrown in for free, the car site says. Even a powered tailgate, which electronically closes the boot lid, is included in standard models.
On the road, Auto Express says the Q3 boasts “keen turn-in, strong grip and decent adjustability.” Ride comfort, which was a problem for the previous generation Q3, is much improved in the new model.
The Q3’s gearbox options, however, do let the side down “ever so slightly”, the magazine says. That’s because the manual option is “a little clunky”, while the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic can be slow at changing gear.
“If practicality and desirability are at the top of your agenda, the new Q3 will carry all of your stuff/family/friends and look good in a modern yet reserved way while doing it”, Car magazine concludes.
Despite the large amount of standard equipment, the motoring magazine says the SUV is “vanilla” compared to its rivals. The BMW X2 and Volvo XC40 are “better to drive” and more comfortable than Audi’s “dull” compact crossover.
Price and release date
Official pricing has yet to be announced, but entry-level Q3 35 TDI models are expected to go on sale for around £31,000 when the car hits showrooms in November.
Create an account with the same email registered to your subscription to unlock access.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
5 sleeper hit cartoons about Trump's struggles to stay awake in court
Cartoons Artists take on courtroom tranquility, war on wokeness, and more
By The Week US Published
-
The true story of Feud: Capote vs. The Swans
In depth The writer's fall from grace with his high-flying socialite friends in 1960s Manhattan is captured in a new Disney+ series
By Adrienne Wyper, The Week UK Published
-
Scottie Scheffler: victory for the 'pre-eminent golfer of this era'
Why Everyone's Talking About Masters victory is Scheffler's second in three years
By The Week Staff Published
-
The Westbury Hotel review: stunning suites in charming Dublin
The Week Recommends This hotel is the perfect spot to while away a weekend in Ireland's capital
By Kaye O'Doherty Published
-
Drama movies 2024: new films out this year
In Depth Latest reviews include The Boys in the Boat, One Life and Tchaikovsky's Wife
By The Week UK Last updated
-
Best new hotels and places to stay in 2024
The Week Recommends Featuring stylish island resorts, historical properties and wilderness retreats
By The Week UK Last updated
-
Albums of the year: best music of 2023
The Week Recommends A look back at the best pop, rap, jazz, dance, classical and rock releases
By The Week UK Published
-
Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay review: an institution reinvented
The Week Recommends Traditions are maintained and the tweaks are clever and modern
By Neil Davey Published
-
Tulum: a Mexican beach town of 'two halves'
The Week Recommends With the 'pueblo' and 'Zona Hotelera', Tulum is home to great hotels, restaurants and beach clubs
By William Leigh Published
-
La Zebra review: beach chic, perfect tacos and secret cenotes
The Week Recommends Enjoy a stylish stay in Mexico at this family-friendly beach hotel and restaurant
By William Leigh Published
-
Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas review: a mythical beachside resort
The Week Recommends Combine the classically simple pleasures of sun, sea and sand with upmarket fun and food
By Adrienne Wyper Published