Summary
Composed and smooth, the Audi Q3 is a luxury compact SUV that exceeds almost all expectations. The stylish vehicle feels quick, handles well and offers a healthy list of standard and additional features for drivers to consider. It's worth noting that the Audi Q3 might feel less athletic than some of the competitors in this class, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA. However, the SUV easily makes up for this with its above-average overall consistency, luxurious look and affordable price tag.
Safety
Although the original 2015 model didn't come standard with any driver assistance features, newer iterations of the Audi Q3 now include:
- Audi pre sense basic – to protect passengers from an oncoming collision
- Blind-spot monitoring – used to detect when other vehicles and objects are located to the driver's side and rear
- Pedestrian detection system – which automatically activates the vehicle's brakes if it detects a pedestrian in front of the vehicle
Thanks to these robust safety features, the Audi Q3 has regularly scored exemplary ratings from the IIHS in just about every category.
Interior
Staying true to the brand's luxurious spirit, the Audi Q3 offers drivers an impressively sleek interior. A wealth of high-quality materials and components, such as premium leather upholstery and 12-way power-adjustable front seats, show off an attention-to-detail that's hard to ignore. Similar to the Porsche Macan, this SUV has a cockpit-style front-seat layout, and the Audi Q3 doesn't sacrifice the comfort of other passengers to do so. In fact, many drivers have been surprised to discover that this vehicle's interior is even larger than it appears from the outside.
Technology
No matter the specific year or trim, the Audi Q3 comes standard with a wide array of technological features, including:
- Audi's MMI infotainment system with touchscreen
- Bose 10-speaker audio system
- Satellite radio (HD Radio on newer versions)
Despite the infotainment system's simple interface with vibrant graphics, some drivers have found that it's located in an awkward position on the dash. Regardless, the system itself is user-friendly and comes with Audi's proprietary digital music interface for a custom experience.
Space
Lucky for drivers, the Audi Q3's interior is as functional as it is stylish. While earlier models of the vehicle offer up to 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, the Audi Q3 2020 upgrades this to 23.7 cubic feet for a spacious experience. Whether you're just commuting within the city or going on a road trip, two rows of leather-wrapped seats easily seat up to five people for a comfortable ride. The back seats are LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) compatible to make driving with your family an easy task.
Comfort
You will be able to enjoy a composed and smooth ride while driving the Audi Q3. Some drivers have found that the SUV isn't as nimble as its competitors, but it certainly makes up for it with an engaging performance that handles responsively. Drivers aren't likely to be completely blown away by the power of the Audi Q3, but that isn't always a bad thing thanks to the SUV's balanced ride.
