NealcpLA

I am VERY strongly considering a new 2016 Q3...I have been an Audi/VW guy for many years but got a 2014 X1 in 2013 when it was time to move from my 2007 A3. That was before the Q3 was out and the new model A3 left me flat (still does)...I have actually really enjoyed my X1 s28i but need AWD now. I should mention I have the Berger SW module which adds maybe 20-25hp to the stock 240 in my X1. It is very refined and "chill" in my everyday driving (around the urban streets of LA) but will kick it when need be...I got my hands on one of the last X1 x35i's around before the new my X1s come out and was not as blown away by it as I had hoped I would be. Even with the 300hp, it did not "feel" that much faster and responsive than mine. I am trying to decide between waiting 2-3 months for the brand new X1 (FWD/X-drive) or a new 2016 Q3 or the GLA. I am (finally) going to drive a Q3 this weekend. Having a hell of a time finding any kind of responsive MB dealer to get a GLA drive but the GLA seems to me, it may be a bit underpowered. First thing I'd do when I get a Q3, if I do, is add the APR software (software only) which should add a good 30hp and 35 lb ft of torque...Any opinions on my choices? It is just my wife and I so don't need a ton of room but like being a bit more "up" as in my X1 so a small crossover is ideal...Also must have the AWD as we have a cabin in the mountains now...

LavaGrau_A3

If you like BMW's, as you seem to, I'd wait for the X1. Looks like at least a generation ahead of the current Q3. Exterior and interior look wonderful. We like our Q3 a lot, but the new X1 looks worth the wait.

NealcpLA

Hmmm...Tough decision...I will be driving a Q3 Saturday which, obviously will help...I have been an Audi guy for so long before the X1 but it's been a good car for me...good point on the newer technology...be nice to have actually seen the new X1 up close...thanks for your honest feedback.

irenesbob

I had been considering a Q3, but the X1 seems a better vehicle to me (so far just based on specs).

Consider:

Q3 Quattro: 0-60 8.3 seconds; highway 28 mpg; transmission – 6 speeds
BMW X1 XDrive: 0-60 6.3 seconds; highway 32 mpg: transmission – 8 speeds

I had hoped that the US 2016 Q3 incorporated the drive train/performance advancements they got in Europe, but no.

I just don’t like the looks of the GLA, so for me it is not in the running.

NealcpLA

Which X1 is that you quoting specs for? the new 2016 X1 x28i? Or? Not sure my 2014 s28i is quite that fast, is it?

irenesbob

Yes, I was comparing two entry level 2016 SUV's - Audi Q3 and BMW X1, both with 4WD/AWD. I don't think it makes sense to compare a current model year car with an older one.

NealcpLA

I agree...didn't know those were the performance specs for the new X1...HP actually went down from mine just a little...

irenesbob

I think (not sure, but I heard it on TV) that the switch from a rear drive to a front drive underlying chassis led to weight and drive line friction reductions, plus more interior room.

NealcpLA

The weight savings and decreased inflection makes sense… It felt like more friction driving the six-cylinder X1 and driving my current four-cylinder if that makes any sense

wms004

I find that the Q3 is actually priced high vs the competition when taking into account the avg. transaction prices.

For ex, for my minimalist build requirements of awd and xenon headlights, trueCar gives me the following prices:

'15 Q3 Quattro Prem Plus - $34,955
'15 GLA 4matic - $32,700
'15 X1 xdrive28i - $32,025

While I like the size and looks of the Q3, it's up to 9% more than the competition when building at a more base level looking at actual transaction prices.

If it had the newest 2.0T and an 8-speed, that would be a different story.