Audi Q3 — Entry-Level And More

THE Audi Q3 seems to have shaken off that uncertainty about where it lies in the scheme of things.

After putting on some weight and gaining some presence, the entry level SUV has rolled up in a good size that is practical and with a look about it that is less tentative and more assured.

The contemporary Audi family lines are more evident with its beefier form, and the Q3 is filled with features to make this a tantalising option for anyone looking for a well-stacked small SUV.

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You feel its sense of worth with the heavy doors, which require some force to shut, and the solid feel of the Hungary-built car. Once on the move, the shockingly loud auto locking mechanism does assure you that the doors are locked.

The importance of going digital cannot be emphasised enough, especially post-COVID-19 and lockdowns. The digital connections helped keep many sane and kept businesses running. So, there should be greater appreciation of how Audi Connect lets you keep in touch with your phone, podcasts, messages and all things deemed digitally vital these days.

The Q3 is the first model in Audi’s premium compact class to be loaded with Audi Connect and the 12.3″ virtual cockpit plus, which gives you a wider playing field to enjoy, especially when it comes to navigation maps. With the instruments tilted towards the driver, it provides an abundance of information, which can be configured to your desired set up.

The appealing factor of the Q3 is its size. Not too big, not too small, it has dimensions that are logical for a family of 5. A good-sized boot — accessible by kicking your foot under the bumper — lets you load gear in. And the back seats can be lowered if you need to put yet more stuff in.

The storage spaces are to be found throughout the car so you can’t complain about not having your cables, connectors, chargers, devices within easy reach. And if you’re in front, the displays will keep you occupied for a while at least.

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The electric seats and mirrors allow you to find a comfortable sitting position with a good view of the road ahead. A 360° camera lets you know what’s behind, along with the prerequisite alarms when you approach an obstacle.

The six-speed is quick to change in normal mode, and holds the gears in sport, with some appreciable difference in performance. Nothing exhilarating, just efficient; as much as a 1.4L engine can deliver. With one significant plus — you don’t have that annoying start/stop feature that keeps intruding on your driving experience.