WeeklySA_AdminTHIRD GENERATION: The updated Q3 arrives with SUV and Sportback body styles packed with loads of tech goodies previously reserved for larger Audi models…
By Ali Mphaki
It’s offered with a system that can learn and store up to five parking manoeuvres and once stored the vehicle can automatically steer, accelerate and brake to guide itself into a pre-defined parking space.
If this has hints of some 007 James Bond Hollywood movie think again for Audi SA just welcomed the third-generation Audi Q3 which embodies this standout feature called Trained Parking designed for drivers who park in the same locations making everyday parking more convenient and effortless – a first for Audi.
Another first for the Audi brand is that the updated Audi Q3 features both digital Matrix LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights (a first in the segment) featuring up to four selectable light signatures complemented by a continuous LED light strip and illuminated Audi rings
Together, these elements create a distinctive lighting signature both day and night – bringing some of Audi’s most advanced lighting technologies to the luxury compact SUV segment and a delight to the eyes!
The South African Audi Q3 range is available with a choice of TFSI and TDI powertrains across both SUV and Sportback body styles:
• Audi Q3 TFSI 110 kW
• Audi Q3 TDI 110 kW
Both powertrains are available in Advanced, S line and S line Black trim levels.
Obvious to the eye the all-new Audi Q3 is the most expressive design yet seen on the model, characterised by stronger proportions, sharper surfaces and a more assertive stance.
A wider Singleframe grille and sleekly tapered headlights create a more focused front-end appearance and when viewed from the side, a distinctive horizontal shoulder line running between the front and rear lights creates a striking interplay between light and shadow, visually dividing the vehicle into upper and lower sections.
Pronounced wheel arches further reinforces the Q3’s SUV character.
At the rear, a cleaner design emphasises the vehicle’s width and planted stance.
Standard equipment across the Audi Q3 SUV and Sportback range includes an electric luggage compartment lid, 18-inch alloy wheels, lane departure warning, seven airbags including an interaction airbag for the front seats, front and rear parking sensors, automatic air conditioning and Audi’s digital stage comprising the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus and 12.8-inch MMI touch display. Standard specification also includes MMI navigation plus with Audi connect services, the Audi Application Store, ambient lighting and leather/artificial leather upholstery.
As if to prove that everyday practicality remains central to the Q3 experience a sliding second row allows luggage capacity behind the rear seats to increase from 488 litres to as much as 575 litres. With the rear seats folded, capacity expands to 1,386 litres in the SUV and 1,289 litres in the Sportback.
A closer look at the top of the range S line Black it amplifies the Q3’s visual presence through 19-inch Audi Sport twin-spoke peak Black Metallic alloy wheels and a Black Optics package that includes black mirror housings, black roof rails, black exterior detailing, black window surrounds and Audi rings finished in Anthracite Grey.
The Advanced trim line introduces additional features focused on comfort, technology and everyday usability. Highlights include LED headlights with digital light signatures, high-beam assist, illuminated rear Audi rings with a continuous light strip, a panoramic sunroof, heated front sport seats with four-way lumbar support, three-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, convenience key and adaptive cruise control. Intelligent park assist with reverse camera and reverse assistant.
Building on the Advanced trim, S line introduces distinctive S line exterior styling, body-coloured lower exterior detailing, 19-inch five-arm Platinum Grey alloy wheels and a flattened multifunction twin-spoke leather sport steering wheel.
One of Audi’s most successful models globally and a cornerstone of Audi South Africa’s SUV portfolio, the all-new Q3 combines premium design, advanced digitalisation and everyday versatility Prices for the Q3 start at R814,200 for the SUV, and R849,200 for the Sportback.
