Pros: Nimble handling with excellent close-quarters maneuverability; classy, high-quality cabin materials; decent fuel economy; peppy acceleration
Cons: Rear seat is very cramped; cargo room is limited; ride is rather stiff; some controls are complicated
CG Says: For 2017, Audi Q3 adds a new base model. The price of the new Q3 Premium is almost $2000 less than last year’s entry level Premium Plus model. A power tailgate is newly standard on Premium Plus models. The Q3 is a premium compact crossover SUV that slots below Audi’s Q5 in size and price. The Q3’s overall length is 10 inches shorter than a Q5, and it’s shorter than most mainstream compact SUVs as well. The diminutive dimensions naturally take a toll on passenger and cargo room, but the upside is that the Q3 is one of the more agile SUVs around. The lone engine is a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that provides decently peppy acceleration. Unlike the Q5, the Q3 is available with front-wheel drive in addition to all-wheel drive. Available features include blind-spot alert, panoramic sunroof, and LED headlights. The Q3 is not without its compromises, but its relatively affordable pricing makes it worth checking out if luxury-brand panache and an athletic driving personality are more important to you than passenger and cargo room.
| Class | Premium Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Audi |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | Premium: $31,800 AWD Premium: $33,900 Premium Plus: $34,500 AWD Premium Plus: $36,600 Prestige: $39,200 AWD Prestige: $41,300 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 200 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 28 |
Road Tests and Additional Info
