The luxury crossover segment is hot these days and the all-new 2019 Audi Q3 has arrived at the perfect time. Audi has unveiled its second generation compact crossover featuring more aggressive styling and larger overall dimensions.
Let’s start with the styling. One look and you’ll notice direct design cues taken from the also-new Q8 flagship, specifically the flared fenders that offer a more muscular look. Audi’s new corporate front end is also on display with its crisp Teutonic lines. The headlight design with LEDs is narrower than before, as is the case with all new Audis. The rear end styling is also very Audi with LED taillights and integrated exhaust tips.
In general, we like the new sheet metal, especially the character line above the fenders. Perhaps one of the most important things to know about the new Q3 is its larger dimensions. It’s grown in length by an extra 3.8 inches, nearly an inch wider, and a 3-inch longer wheelbase. Interior dimensions are also roomier but, strangely, Audi has not released those specific numbers. Along with increased leg, head, and shoulder room, the rear seat slides almost 6 inches and receives a 40/20/40 split. Cargo space has also been increased. The outgoing model offered 16.7 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats up, and 50.3 folded flat. The new Q3 increases those dimension to 18.7 and 53.9, respectively.
As with any Audi past, present and future, the interior quality is impeccable. The new styling is very attractive, highlighted by Audi’s now standard digital instrument cluster. Buyers can upgrade to the outstanding Virtual Cockpit system which sports a large 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. The center console is comprised of an 8.8-inch touchscreen that controls the infotainment system, with an optional 10.1-inch touchscreen on top-of-the-line Q3s. Like the exterior, the interior borrows a lot of styling from the Q8, which is no bad thing.
And like the Q8, the new Q3 comes packed with futuristic technologies. One interesting example is called natural-language voice control that’s said to be a big improvement over past voice control systems thanks to cloud connectivity. Other tech bits include traffic and parking information, better internet search capabilities, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available, as is adaptive cruise and lane keep assist.
Under the hood are a few engine options, but not all of them will make it to the US. European buyers will receive the entry-level 1.5-liter gasoline engine. There’s also a diesel option that will surely remain in Europe. More than likely, Americans will be offered the familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with either 190 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque or 230 hp with 258 lb-ft.
A seven-speed dual-clutch will be the sole transmission option. All-wheel drive will be standard in Europe, but chances are Audi will offer a FWD version for the US. Sales will commence in Europe this November. A launch date for the US and official pricing was not announced, though we expect a base price in the mid-$30,000 range.
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