Excerpt from CR Q3 Test
02-24-2015, 11:10 AM
#1
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Excerpt from CR Q3 Test
Audi is following BMW, Buick, and Mercedes-Benz with its own compact luxury SUV. Slotted below the Q5, the new Q3 is primarily based on the Volkswagen Tiguan platform. Overall the Q3 manages to deliver a similarly premium driving experience as in the Q5 but in a 10-inch shorter package. The standard engine is the energetic 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, mated to a conventional six-speed automatic. This is a quiet and attractively finished SUV, with a firm ride and responsive handling. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions are available. A 140-hp, 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder will be offered at a later date, and a next-generation version based on the new Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 arrives soon.
02-26-2015, 06:05 AM
#4
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More from CR Q3 Test
Bantam-sized luxury SUVs are a trendy and growing niche. Tight European streets and high fuel prices explain their popularity there, but here they promise posh brand cachet and SUV attributes for a more attainable price. Unlike some direct competitors, namely the Mercedes GLA, the little Audi Q3 actually delivers a premium experience in a small package. Just don't expect a bargain price, most Q3s on dealers' lot scratch $40,000. (Still, that's $7,000 less than a comparably equipped Audi Q5.)
Based on the Volkswagen Tiguan, itself not too plebeian the Q3 is quiet, rides comfortably and has a well-finished interior with comfortable seats and high feature content. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine supplies the goods with smooth, effortless acceleration. This doesn't make the Q3 a rocket ship, and its 22 mpg overall is somewhat disappointing given the minute size.
The cabin looks simplistic but gives a sense of quality. The Q3's generous standard features -- similar as in other Audi models -- includes dual leather and heated power seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Audi's comprehensive infotainment system.
Access is easy thanks to the car's height. Unfortunately, the driving position is cramped and asymmetrical which might get tiring on a long drive. Inside, the Q3 feels narrow, putting driver and passenger shoulder-to-shoulder. The rear seat is snug but livable, cargo area is modest.
Shortcomings notwithstanding, overall, the Q3 hits the mark as a compact premium SUV that's suitable for the empty nester household or the fashionable urbanite. Since the Q3 has been available in Europe for a few years, a newer version is in the offing.
Why buy one:
•Possesses premium qualities in compact size
•Rides comfortably
•Has a quiet interior
•Comes with a long list of standard features
Why not buy one: •Expensive for size
•Modest rear seat and cargo area
•Narrow driver space with too-close foot rest that skews seated position
•Rear visibility is tight, and a backup camera is optional
•Given the small dimensions, you'd expect better than 22 mpg overall
Viable alternatives: •BMW X1
•Audi Q5
•Volkswagen Tiguan
•Ford Escape
•Acura RDX
Navigating the trim lines: The Q3 comes pretty well equipped. Even the basic Premium Plus model has standard leather, power and heated front seats, HID headlights, and a panoramic sunroof.
Many of the available options on the Premium Plus model come standard on the top-level Prestige version, including navigation, a rear camera, blind-spot monitoring, and a power rear tailgate. It also adds an up-level Bose stereo. The only options available are metallic paint and a Sports package with sports seats, shift paddles, and Audi Drive Select's adjustable steering and throttle settings.
Both trim levels are available with either front- or all-wheel drive.
Best version/options to get: Given the Q3's tight rear visibility, we think the $1,400 Driver Assistance package is a good idea, since the Premium Plus model lacks a standard backup camera. We also like the blind-spot monitoring that comes with that package.
Want a loaded Q3 with a lot of options, like our Premium Plus test car with navigation, power tailgate, and the driver assistance package? Just skip right to the top Prestige trim. It costs the same as a loaded-up Premium Plus model, with a Bose stereo thrown in for good measure.
Changes from the previous version: The Q3 SUV is new for 2015.
The Driving Experience
Handling: While you're aware you're driving a small SUV by virtue of its height, the Q3's handling is taut and agile. Turn-in response is prompt and the body doesn't lean much. The steering effort is well judged but there isn't a whole lot of true feedback. While the Q3 has standard front-wheel drive, we found the optional AWD system is unobtrusive and very effective in snow.
The Q3's sports package comes with "comfort," "dynamic," and "auto" modes. These selections tweak throttle and steering settings accordingly.
On the track the Q3 was tight and responsive. It demonstrated strong tire grip and a secure, balanced behavior as it approaches the limits. During our avoidance maneuver, the Q3 was ultimately secure even though it tended to lift its rear inside tire at times. It posted a speed of 51.5 mph and earned high marks for confidence by our drivers.
Powertrain: Audi/VW's ubiquitous 2.0-liter turbo works well for the Q3. It supplies a healthy dose of propulsion for most situations and power delivery is well-rounded and even. While 8.4 seconds from 0-60 mph is nothing to write home about, the small Audi feels more responsive in everyday drives than that figure suggests.
For a zippier feel one can toggle the shifter to the Sport mode, which sharpens things up.
Unlike the larger Q5, the Q3 has a six-speed automatic, not the excellent eight-speed unit. Most of the time this transmission proves smooth and responsive, but it can't quite match the standards of that eight-speed. We were a little disappointed with the Audi's 22 mpg overall on premium, but that's not too far away from the related VW Tiguan.
Off-road: Even though it has a hill-descent function for slow, slippery off-road downhills, the Q3 is not intended for off-roading except for the occasional snowy driveway.
Towing capacity: The Q3 can tow up to 2,200 pounds with electric trailer brakes and an installed hitch.
Ride comfort: Spend some time in the Q3 and you realize that it absorbs bumps and ruts quite well with good isolation and controlled body motions. The highway ride is a smooth cruise. Overall, the Q3 rides very comfortably, but the underlying firmness, especially at low speeds, may suggest otherwise.
Noise: The Q3 is very quiet and in similar company to many other luxury SUVs (Acura RDX, BMW X1), with suppressed levels of wind and road noise, and engine hum thrumming in the background. Here the Q3 shines over one of its direct competitors, the significantly louder Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Braking: The Q3 performed very well with short stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces. Pedal modulation was flawless with reassuring feedback and feel.
Headlights: Like our previously-tested A3, standard Xenon headlights in the Q3 provide a very bright and white light but lack forward seeing distance -- despite a higher mounting height over the A3. This will prompt you to opt for high beams as early and often as you can to give you some security in night driving.
Based on the Volkswagen Tiguan, itself not too plebeian the Q3 is quiet, rides comfortably and has a well-finished interior with comfortable seats and high feature content. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine supplies the goods with smooth, effortless acceleration. This doesn't make the Q3 a rocket ship, and its 22 mpg overall is somewhat disappointing given the minute size.
The cabin looks simplistic but gives a sense of quality. The Q3's generous standard features -- similar as in other Audi models -- includes dual leather and heated power seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Audi's comprehensive infotainment system.
Access is easy thanks to the car's height. Unfortunately, the driving position is cramped and asymmetrical which might get tiring on a long drive. Inside, the Q3 feels narrow, putting driver and passenger shoulder-to-shoulder. The rear seat is snug but livable, cargo area is modest.
Shortcomings notwithstanding, overall, the Q3 hits the mark as a compact premium SUV that's suitable for the empty nester household or the fashionable urbanite. Since the Q3 has been available in Europe for a few years, a newer version is in the offing.
Why buy one:
•Possesses premium qualities in compact size
•Rides comfortably
•Has a quiet interior
•Comes with a long list of standard features
Why not buy one: •Expensive for size
•Modest rear seat and cargo area
•Narrow driver space with too-close foot rest that skews seated position
•Rear visibility is tight, and a backup camera is optional
•Given the small dimensions, you'd expect better than 22 mpg overall
Viable alternatives: •BMW X1
•Audi Q5
•Volkswagen Tiguan
•Ford Escape
•Acura RDX
Navigating the trim lines: The Q3 comes pretty well equipped. Even the basic Premium Plus model has standard leather, power and heated front seats, HID headlights, and a panoramic sunroof.
Many of the available options on the Premium Plus model come standard on the top-level Prestige version, including navigation, a rear camera, blind-spot monitoring, and a power rear tailgate. It also adds an up-level Bose stereo. The only options available are metallic paint and a Sports package with sports seats, shift paddles, and Audi Drive Select's adjustable steering and throttle settings.
Both trim levels are available with either front- or all-wheel drive.
Best version/options to get: Given the Q3's tight rear visibility, we think the $1,400 Driver Assistance package is a good idea, since the Premium Plus model lacks a standard backup camera. We also like the blind-spot monitoring that comes with that package.
Want a loaded Q3 with a lot of options, like our Premium Plus test car with navigation, power tailgate, and the driver assistance package? Just skip right to the top Prestige trim. It costs the same as a loaded-up Premium Plus model, with a Bose stereo thrown in for good measure.
Changes from the previous version: The Q3 SUV is new for 2015.
The Driving Experience
Handling: While you're aware you're driving a small SUV by virtue of its height, the Q3's handling is taut and agile. Turn-in response is prompt and the body doesn't lean much. The steering effort is well judged but there isn't a whole lot of true feedback. While the Q3 has standard front-wheel drive, we found the optional AWD system is unobtrusive and very effective in snow.
The Q3's sports package comes with "comfort," "dynamic," and "auto" modes. These selections tweak throttle and steering settings accordingly.
On the track the Q3 was tight and responsive. It demonstrated strong tire grip and a secure, balanced behavior as it approaches the limits. During our avoidance maneuver, the Q3 was ultimately secure even though it tended to lift its rear inside tire at times. It posted a speed of 51.5 mph and earned high marks for confidence by our drivers.
Powertrain: Audi/VW's ubiquitous 2.0-liter turbo works well for the Q3. It supplies a healthy dose of propulsion for most situations and power delivery is well-rounded and even. While 8.4 seconds from 0-60 mph is nothing to write home about, the small Audi feels more responsive in everyday drives than that figure suggests.
For a zippier feel one can toggle the shifter to the Sport mode, which sharpens things up.
Unlike the larger Q5, the Q3 has a six-speed automatic, not the excellent eight-speed unit. Most of the time this transmission proves smooth and responsive, but it can't quite match the standards of that eight-speed. We were a little disappointed with the Audi's 22 mpg overall on premium, but that's not too far away from the related VW Tiguan.
Off-road: Even though it has a hill-descent function for slow, slippery off-road downhills, the Q3 is not intended for off-roading except for the occasional snowy driveway.
Towing capacity: The Q3 can tow up to 2,200 pounds with electric trailer brakes and an installed hitch.
Ride comfort: Spend some time in the Q3 and you realize that it absorbs bumps and ruts quite well with good isolation and controlled body motions. The highway ride is a smooth cruise. Overall, the Q3 rides very comfortably, but the underlying firmness, especially at low speeds, may suggest otherwise.
Noise: The Q3 is very quiet and in similar company to many other luxury SUVs (Acura RDX, BMW X1), with suppressed levels of wind and road noise, and engine hum thrumming in the background. Here the Q3 shines over one of its direct competitors, the significantly louder Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Braking: The Q3 performed very well with short stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces. Pedal modulation was flawless with reassuring feedback and feel.
Headlights: Like our previously-tested A3, standard Xenon headlights in the Q3 provide a very bright and white light but lack forward seeing distance -- despite a higher mounting height over the A3. This will prompt you to opt for high beams as early and often as you can to give you some security in night driving.
02-28-2015, 11:12 AM
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I get an average of 22.9mpg after 3k of driving. The best I got with 200 miles on of pure freeway (75mph) was 27.9. I track with an app, writing mileage on my receipt.
I have a heavy foot.
I have a heavy foot.
Last edited by miTTch; 02-28-2015 at 01:08 PM.
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