Audi Philippines is strengthening its product range with the introduction of the all-new, third-generation Q3. The premium compact SUV brings technologies, specifically an electrified combustion engine technology first introduced in the full-size class range, to the compact segment while upping its digitalization, comfort, and driver engagement.
Compared to the previous Q3, the new Audi Q3 has a more emotional and expressive design. The compound headlights feature LED daytime running lights at the upper edge of the hood, while the widened Singleframe grille now integrate the headlights. The front 2D Audi ring logo is finished in Polar White. The rear echoes the front’s clean design. The rear lights are made up of two parts with a narrow strip that cuts across the entire width. The rear four rings logo is now illuminated, while the diffuser is integrated into the raised bumper. At the side, the powerfully emerging fender blisters are filled in with cast alloy 18-inch wheels.
With a focus on improving efficiency and occupant comfort, the Q3’s aerodynamics has been significantly improved. Not only does it boast a 0.30 co-efficient of drag, it’s the first Audi model in the compact segment to offer acoustic glazing for the front side windows. In combination with optimized sealing and insulation in the vehicle, this results in a noticeable improvement in driving comfort.
In total, six colors are on offer for the local market: Sage Green, Tambora Gray, Arrow Gray, Glacier White, Malpelo Blue, and Mythos Black.
Inside, the Q3 has a new steering wheel design concept. It integrates two new steering column levers for the first time, thus creating more storage space in the center console, a new user experience, and a better sense of space. The lever on the right serves as a gear selector, the one on the left controls the light functions and windshield wipers. The elimination of the gear selector in the center console results in more space in the console with two cup holders.
There’s an extended soft wrap that extends from the doors across the entire width of the dashboard which, coupled with the matte cross-brushed aluminum inlays, create an undeniably modern and premium vibe. The so-called “Digital Stage” made up of the panoramic 11.9-inch instrument cluster and 12.8-inch MMI touch display creates a driver-oriented cockpit. Key features inside include leather seats with power adjustment and heating for the front seats, ambient LED interior lighting, 15-watt wireless charger, and a three-zone climate control.
Opening the power tailgate, the Q3 shows off a 488-liter cargo space. The rear seat bench can be moved lengthwise and its angle can be adjusted for flexibility. If the rear bench is slid all the way forward and placed in an upright position, it grows slightly to 575 liters. With the seat bench folded down, it’s boosted to 1,386 liters.
Improvements to the Q3 continue under the hood and underneath. The revised suspension further improves the overall dynamics of this well-rounded SUV, while an electrified turbocharged 1.5-liter and 7-speed S tronic dual clutch automatic increases responsiveness. With 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, it’s suitable for the urban confines, yet it remains highly capable with a 209 km/h top speed.
Safety equipment includes a full complement of airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control with hill hold control and hill start assist, tire pressure monitoring, parking sensors with a reverse camera.
With more than two million sold worldwide since the launch of the first-generation model, the Audi Q3 enjoys a high status in the carmaker’s portfolio. The advent of the third-generation model brings forth a renewal that combines efficiency, driving dynamics, and comfort. In addition, it brings Audi’s “Digital Stage” from the full-size class to the compact segment making it the ideal companion for everyday life.
The all-new Audi Q3 is available for orders at all authorized Audi dealerships nationwide with customer deliveries to start in last week of May to June.
