The compact crossover market is big business at the moment, and no fashionable luxury manufacturer’s going to be caught dead without one. Audi is no different; enter the 2015 Q3.
Joining the Q5 and Q7 in the lineup, the Q3 takes a more carlike approach than its bigger brothers, combining Audi’s signature styling with a more dramatically raked greenhouse and flared fenders. A panoramic sunroof is available, and aluminum is used for the hood and tailgate to keep overall weight and the center of gravity down. Audi’s familiar LED headlight elements ensure that the Q3 looks like a member of the family.
Under the hood, a 2.0 liter direct-injection four-cylinder is standard equipment, and produces 200 horsepower. A six-speed Tiptronic transmission delivers power to the front or all four wheels. Electronic power steering combined with a fully independent suspension should provide a ride that’s worthy of the four-ring badge on the hood. Though it’s a soft-roader at best, the electronic stability control includes an off-road mode to keep the Q3 stable should it be called upon to tackle a trail or two.
Putting the “luxury” in “luxury crossover” is an available-equipment list that includes a navigation system with Audi’s MMI controls, a park-assist system and blind spot monitor, BOSE surround sound and the Audi connect infotainment system which includes wi-fi connectivity, Google Earth mapping and Google Voice Local Search connectivity.
The Q3 goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2014.
