When it first came onto the local market in 2012, the Audi Q3 managed to pull off a clever trick - it looked huge but was actually compact in reality.
Based on the Volkswagen Group's PQ35 platform that is also shared with the Mk6 Golf and the Tiguan, it faced strong competition from rivals such as the BMW X1, the Range Rover Evoque and more recently, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.
After four years, Audi has given the Q3 an update but has decided not to mess too much with its original formula.
Up close and Personal
Dimensions and the overall profile remain unchanged, and the main visual update is reserved for the Q3's nose. There's a revised and imposing 3D-effect Singleframe grille, complete with extra chrome trim that blends with new LED headlamps, giving Audi's baby SUV a look that's similar to the forthcoming Q7.
At the same time, the rear bumpers have been reprofiled and the LED taillight clusters now get dynamic 'scrolling' turn signals.
It's the same story inside, as the layout is largely unchanged. With minor tweaks to the controls, the cabin remains a beautifully built one with sound ergonomics and high-quality plastic, leather and chrome materials.
The Q3 treads a fine line between usability and practicality. In the front or back, it's no roomier than a normal A3 but that does mean there's enough space for four to sit in decent comfort, coupled with a boot that expands out from 460 to 1,365 litres.
The compact SUV is easy to live with everyday too, with a flat floor, low loading lip and rear seats that lie close to flat when folded down. The previous hard luggage or tonneau cover has been upgraded to a retractable one too and keeps the valuables well hidden from view.
Last but not least, the standard power tailgate makes loading and unloading a walk in the park.
The Drive
The car you see here is fitted with Audi's 1.4-litre TFSI engine that is mated to a six-speed S-tronic transmission.
The good news is that the entry level motor has enough gusto to propel the Q3 at a reasonable pace, getting it from 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and revving sweetly through the low and mid range. The engine and gearbox work perfectly well together, providing a smooth delivery of power and overtaking capability.
Thanks to its strong grip and decent body control, the car-like Audi Q3 feels agile and composed. Better still, its combination of compact size and well-weighted controls helps inspire confidence. It combines this agility with a comfortable ride, too, dealing well with bumps and potholes.
With this update, Audi has also fitted Drive Mode Select as standard across the range, so drivers can choose to tailor the steering weight and throttle response.
The car you see here is fitted with Audi's 1.4-litre TFSI engine that is mated to a six-speed S-tronic transmission.
The good news is that the entry level motor has enough gusto to propel the Q3 at a reasonable pace, getting it from 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and revving sweetly through the low and mid range. The engine and gearbox work perfectly well together, providing a smooth delivery of power and overtaking capability.
Thanks to its strong grip and decent body control, the car-like Audi Q3 feels agile and composed. Better still, its combination of compact size and well-weighted controls helps inspire confidence. It combines this agility with a comfortable ride, too, dealing well with bumps and potholes.
With this update, Audi has also fitted Drive Mode Select as standard across the range, so drivers can choose to tailor the steering weight and throttle response.
The car's neither particularly exciting nor particularly inspiring, but it is perfectly pleasant because it serves up a refined ride and has that elevated driving position enjoyed by SUV drivers, making it relaxing and easy to get along with on highways or around town.
Conclusion
In many ways, this update only sweetens an already appealing package. By possessing high-quality engineering, a handsome design, a punchy yet efficient powertrain, and decent dynamics, the clever Audi Q3 would make a satisfying ownership proposition.
