TODAY 24 MAY Exclusive Audi News

...immediately recognisable as the newest member of the successful Audi ‘Q family’. Like its bigger brothers, the Q3’s coupe-like lines are a visual expression of its sporty character. Sharp edges frame elegantly arched sheet metal surfaces, and the optional bi-xenon headlights give the Q3 a distinctive and formidable presence on the road.

The Q3 is being launched in Australia with a choice of four highly efficient engines (two TDI and two TFSI engines) that also deliver the kind of sporty performance expected from Audi. All engines are 2.0-litres in capacity, and are turbocharged with direct fuel-injection. Start/stop technology saves fuel while the car is sitting still, and the electromechanical steering yields fuel economy savings of up to 0.3 l/100km. The handsome Q3 also leads its class in aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of just 0.32Cd – a remarkable figure for an SUV.

The 103kW 2.0 TDI manual Q3 delivers outstanding fuel economy figures of just 5.2 l/100km, and with a full 64-litre tank of fuel, it has a range of over 1000 kilometres. The vigorous 130kW 2.0 TDI quattro provides an even more impressive driving experience, with a substantial 380Nm of torque arriving between 1750-2500rpm. Paired with the seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, it will reach 100km/h from rest in 8.2 seconds.

The 125kW and 155kW TFSI petrol drivetrains also deliver impressive fuel efficiency, with figures of 7.3 and 7.7 l/100km respectively. The 155kW model offers drivers the sportiest performance, reaching 100km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h.

Australian buyers will find the Audi Q3 is very generously equipped, with features like Bluetooth interface with audio streaming, Audi parking system rear, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, driver information system and multifunction leather steering wheel standard on all models.

The Audi Q3 will naturally attract young professionals (30-39) who are successful in their chosen field, middle-aged couples and families who want an urban SUV that can be used for recreational activities, along with empty-nesters who lead an active lifestyle and want the versatility of a premium SUV. Audi has dubbed this overall group as ‘Urban Navigators’.

The Audi Q3 officially went on-sale nationally on 31 March 2012.

Audi Q3 range – Australian pricing

Audi Q3 2.0 TDI manual 103 kW $44,800
*

Audi Q3 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic 130 kW $54,500*

Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro manual 125 kW $47,000
*

Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic 125 kW $48,950
*

Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro manua 155 kW $56,000*

*Manufacturer’s List Pricing MLP (excluding on-road costs)