New Sportback added to Audi Q3 range
The new Audi Q3 Sportback will be available to order next month, complementing the second generation Q3 range.
In the first launch phase two engines will power the new Audi Q3 Sportback – one TFSI and one TDI – both of which have been certified to the Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard. The four-cylinder direct injection units use turbocharging and are fitted with a particulate filter. The 2.0 TDI provides 150hp in the Q3 Sportback 35 TDI while the 2.0 TFSI in the Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI quattro offers 230hp. Soon after launch a 190hp version of the 2.0 TDI will join the range exclusively in conjunction with quattro drive in the Q3 Sportback 40 TDI quattro.
Joining post launch will be a 1.5-litre TFSI engine in the Audi Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI. This engine offers 150hp and has cylinder-on-demand technology to reduce consumption. And, for the first time, when combined with S tronic automatic transmission, it will also feature a 48V mild-hybrid drivetrain (MHEV).
Fuel consumption ranges from 7.7-4.7l/100 km, while emissions range from 174-123g/km CO2 on the WLTP test cycle.
Four driver assist systems are included as standard in the new Audi Q3 Sportback: Audi pre sense basic; Audi pre sense front; lane departure warning; and Audi side assist. Vorsprung versions additionally get a 360º camera. Adaptive cruise assist is optional.
The SUV coupé is 16mm longer, 49mm lower and 6mm slimmer than the standard Audi Q3, although both share the same 2,680mm wheelbase.
As well as 11 colour options, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and dynamic rear indicators are standard Sport features.
S line trim adds larger 19-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass and a new bumper design, sill trims and diffuser, as well as S line-specific interior detailing. Range-topping Edition 1 and Vorsprung models enlarge the alloys to 20-inch and add a black styling pack, such as the grille surround and window cappings. They also upgrade to Matrix LED lighting.
Pricing is yet to be announced, but we suspect it will start at around €1,000 more than the standard Q3, with prices expected to start from around €39,500.
Jonathan Musk
Jonathan turned to motoring journalism in 2013 having founded, edited and produced Autovolt - one of the UK's leading electric car publications. He has also written and produced books on both Ferrari and Hispano-Suiza, while working as an international graphic designer for the past 15 years. As the automotive industry moves towards electrification, Jonathan brings a near-unrivalled knowledge of EVs and hybrids to Fleet World Group.
