2018 Audi Q3

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: The 2018 Audi Q3 is essentially unchanged. The base model has some revised exterior trim and gains standard heated front seats. The Prestige trim has been replaced by an option package for the Premium Plus model. 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.