THE Audi Q3, the youngest member of the successful SUV family from Audi, is a practical companion for everyday – an urban model that feels at home anywhere. Its versatile character makes it attractive to a wide range of customers. The redesigned Audi Q3 has now arrived in the Middle East market. Since its market introduction in early 2012, the Q3 model series has been a successful model for the Audi brand. Over 1,920 models have been sold in the region since introduction. Audi is constantly improving good and successful models, therefore the new Audi Q3 model not only features a refreshed design, it also boasts a number of technical innovations. Engine The three TFSI four cylinder engines boast higher output combined with reduced fuel consumption. CO2 emissions have been reduced as well. They displace 1.4 or 2.0 liters and produce between 150 hp and 220 hp. All are turbocharged, direct-injection units and comply with the limits of the Euro 6 emission standard. Chassis The chassis of the redesigned Audi Q3 combines agile handling with supreme safety, and comprehensive fine-tuning has enhanced comfort even further. Audi drive select enables the driver to adjust key technology modules, including the optional active dampers, to suit his or her personal preferences. Wheels range in size from 17 to 20 inches in diameter, and the suspension has been tuned for high rolling comfort. Hill descent assist is available as an option. Design The premium character of the redesigned Audi Q3 is apparent at first glance. The Audi designers have honed the details of the coupe like lines with the characteristic wrap-around tailgate. Dominating horizontal lines up front and in the rear underscore the width and give the Q3 an expressive design. The sculpted Singleframe grille is the defining element at the front of the car. At the top of the two new Q3 trim lines design and sport are the S line sport package, the S line exterior package, the Audi exclusive design package and the Audi exclusive exterior design package. The redesigned headlights come standard with xenon plus technology and LED daytime running lights. The optional LED headlights are particularly bright and energy efficient. Audi offers them in combination with the dynamic turn signals integrated into the likewise redesigned LED taillights. These intuitive turn signals illuminate sequentially within two-tenths of a second from the inside out in the direction the driver intends to turn. The base model of the new Audi Q3 has a curb weight (without driver) of 1,394 kilograms. The dimensions of the compact SUV are virtually unchanged. It measures 4.39 meters long, 1.83 meters wide and 1.59 meters high. The wheelbase is unchanged at 2.60 meters. Versatile The Audi Q3 offers plenty of space at all five seating positions. Its clear ergonomics and the superior workmanship underscore the premium claim. In its base configuration, the cargo compartment of the Audi Q3 has a capacity of 460 liters; by folding down the split rear seatbacks, this can be increased to 1,365 liters. Many clever options make the SUV even more versatile and easier to use. These include the luggage compartment package, a pass-through and the power tailgate. Roof rails and a new, extensible luggage compartment cover are standard. Equipment and trim The new Audi Q3 features a generous list of standard equipment. This can be supplemented with features taken directly from the luxury class, such as the LED interior lighting package and the power-adjustable front seats. With respect to driver assistance systems, the secondary collision brake assist is standard. Customers can order the assistance systems described below as options. With Audi side assist, a yellow LED indicator illuminates in the housing of the outside mirror if another vehicle is in the blind spot or is approaching rapidly from the rear. Audi active lane assist works with video cameras that detect the lane markings. It gently intervenes in the steering to help the driver return to the lane if he or she comes too close to a line without indicating. MMI navigation plus is the high-end infotainment solution from Audi. The ideal complement to MMI navigation plus is Audi connect, which connects the Audi Q3 to the Internet. Passengers can use the integrated Wi-Fi hotspot to surf or e mail. The starting price of the redesigned Audi Q3, which Audi builds at its Martorell plant outside Barcelona, Spain, is $ 33,400. — SG
