2020 Audi Q3 test drive

The 2020 Audi Q3 represents Audi’s entry level SUV in the Canadian market. The funny thing about these entry level models, size might be the only indicator of its entry level status.

The second generation Q3 is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB Global platform, also shared with Audi’s A3 and a multitude of other Volkswagen group models.

This newer Q3 is longer, wider and sits atop a 2,680mm wheelbase, 77mm longer than the first generation Q3. The extra length has resulted in more interior room. That room can be utilized according to occupants needs as the rear seats in the Q3 slide back and forth, allowing for increased legroom or extra storage, depending on the situation. With the rear seats slid back, the Q3 offers 530 litres of storage, vs 672 L with the seats forward. The rear seats also fold flat for the ultimate storage solution with 1,525L available. Another interesting feature of the rear seat back, is the 40/20/40 split. This allows long items to be carried down the centre, with two passengers comfortably seated in back.

The Q3 is sold in Canada with one engine option at present, a 228HP four cylinder TFSI unit. This is the top level gasoline engine offered Globally. As such, its sold under the model name Audi Q3 45 TFSI Quattro. The Q3 comes in three trim packages, Komfort, Progressiv and Technik, all come with Quattro all wheel drive.

The Komfort package comes standard in one colour, white. It includes leather interior, 18 inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof, power adjustable drivers seat with lumbar adjustment, heated front seats, LED front and rear lights, 10 speaker audio system with an 8.8 inch colour LCD touch screen, Audi’s basic MMI system, a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster as well as a basic safety suite that includes ABS, pre-sense collision protocol, rear view camera, rain sensing wipers and cruise control. Audi’s Drive select customization menu is standard on all trim levels.

The Progressiv trim adds parking assist technology, rear cross traffic sensors, lane departure warning, a power tailgate, heated, power adjustable front seats (2), auto dimming rear view mirror, heated rear bench seats, S-line exterior trim and 19 inch alloy wheels.

The top of range Technik, layers on Audi’s top view camera system, heated , auto-dimming and power folding side mirrors, Audi’s 12.3 inch Virtual Cockpit plus, a Bang and Olufsen 12 speaker stereo and a slew of connectivity features including wireless Apple Carplay.

Our tester was the Technik, with two notable exterior options, 20 inch wheels and the eye catching Turbo Blue paint scheme.

Stepping into the Q3, brings you back to my original thought. This is really only an entry level model in size alone. The interior is bathed in luxury and comes standard with Audi’s Teutonic ergonomic brilliance. Controls are logically laid out and fall easily to hand. The optional sports seats are not only comfortable but quite supportive.

The power-train features the tried and true 2.0 litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. When we originally drove the newest Q3 in Europe, it was paired with Audi’s seven-speed dual clutch S-tronic transmission. The S-tronic transmission occasionally leaves me disappointed. This technology was developed for racing on a track. The public craved it for the performance heritage and the now omnipresent paddle shifter controls. Manufacturers adopted the technology for the fuel efficiency. Truth is, the weakest part of the technology is starting from a stop. Try using one parked on a hill or incline. The on/off nature of the gear engagement, leads to lurching and sometimes unwanted contact with cars parked around you. Bear that in mind when you park.

However, the Canadian spec 2020 Q3 has an eight-speed Tiptronic (automatic) transmission mated to the engine. Buyers should be pleased with choice as the Tiptronic transmission is remarkably smoother than the S-Tronic. Also as a matter of comparison, Audi also fits Tiptronic transmissions on the range topping RS models such as the RS6, RS7 and RS Q8.

The powertrain is quiet, powerful and delivers its 228 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque in a linear and smooth fashion.

Acceleration is brisk, with 0-100 kms/hr rolling by in 7 seconds. Top speed is 210 kms/hr.

The new chassis pays dividends beyond the additional room it affords. The extra rigidity of the MQB platform translates into better handling and a quieter ride.

Audi rates fuel economy at 10.6 l/100 kms, which was pretty close to the 11.8 l/100kms we measured in normal driving as opposed to the hypothetical cycle all car companies use.

Compared to the previous model, the new 2020 Audi Q3 is a much better vehicle. Better handling, sharp performance, class leading ergonomic cabin, increased interior room and enhanced creature comforts, all for a similar price to the earlier 1^st generation model. The 2020 Audi Q3 Komfort starts at $38,900 and packages can be compared at Audi Canada‘s website.