WE’VE SAID IT BEFORE, and we’ll say it again: we don’t understand why you’d buy an SUV that wants to look like a coupe. But what would we know?
Audi has proven us wrong, time after time, and they’ll probably do it again with the new Audi Q3 Sportback, and we have to admit, it’s a stylish looking thing.
The all-new Audi Q3 Sportback offers a progressive new exterior design, combining the sleek attributes of a coupe with the modern compact SUV. It’s both longer and lower than the Q3 SUV, with pronounced wheel arch blisters, offering a subtle nod to the iconic ‘quattro’ motorsport heritage that Audi is renowned for. Its striking design is enhanced on all Australian vehicles, which come standard with S line exterior styling, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels in dynamic designs.
The Q3 Sportback has been engineered to provide a dynamic driving experience. Its progressive steering offers a more direct response for winding roads or when turning sharp corners. Audi drive select allows driving characteristics to be altered with a selection of various modes through its intuitive MMI controls.
The intelligent, contemporary interior design of the Audi Q3 Sportback offers class-leading versatility, with 530 litres of luggage space – the same as its Q3 sibling. This can be increased up to 1400 litres, thanks to rear seats that slide fore/aft and split fold 40/20/40.
“The very first Q3 Sportback expands Audi’s presence in the premium compact SUV segment,” said Paul Sansom, Managing Director of Audi Australia.
“In a single generation, the Audi Q3 established itself as the benchmark in its class, underlined by its enduring popularity throughout its lifetime. The new model is stronger in every conceivable area, and the very first Q3 Sportback offers an even more expressive alternative for buyers. The growing share of the premium compact SUV segment shows no sign of slowing down, and so the Q3 Sportback is absolutely the right car at the right time for the Australian market,” said Mr Sansom.
Like the Q3, infotainment and connectivity are features of the Q3 Sportback, with several innovations that set it apart in the segment. Prominent Audi features like the virtual cockpit, MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, DAB+ digital radio, natural language voice control and a combination of USB-A and USB-C charging points in the front and rear are just the start.
The new Q3 Sportback is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay technology (but still no Android Auto) as standard, as well as Audi phone box light with wireless smartphone charging, dual simultaneous Bluetooth phone connection and also the innovative convenience of Audi connect plus.
Through high-speed internet access, Audi connect plus offers a suite of features including real-time traffic information and avoidance options, check petrol station fuel prices, weather updates and availability of spaces at a parking station.
The interior of the Q3 Sportback is of the usual high Audi standard, with leather-appointed upholstery, multi-function leather steering wheel, two-zone climate control and ambient interior coloured lighting, all accessed via convenient keyless entry.
The all-new Audi Q3 Sportback has been awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating, and comes equipped with an extensive array of driver assistance safety systems, like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with cyclist and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane change warning, rear cross-traffic assist, tyre pressure monitors, hill descent control, as well as a comprehensive suite of parking sensors and rear view camera. The Q3 Sportback is equipped with six airbags.
The 35 TFSI S line model is the entry point into the Q3 Sportback range, powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged TFSI petrol engine that produces 110kW and 250Nm. Mated to a six-speed S tronic transmission that delivers to the front wheels, strong performance is a given. The Q3 Sportback reaches 100km/h from rest in 9.3 seconds, returning 7.3L/100km. CO2 emissions are 167 grams per km.
The 40 TFSI quattro S line model will join the line-up soon after, powered by a 132kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged TFSI petrol engine. It will be matched to a seven-speed S tronic transmission, driving all four wheels.
In addition, a special Launch Edition is available at market launch, including additional equipment highlights like metallic paint, privacy glass, black exterior styling package, folding/heated exterior mirrors, high-output Audi sound system, auto dimming interior mirror, colour interior lighting package, electric front seats with electric lumbar support, heated front seats, a 360-degree parking camera, as well as Adaptive cruise assist, with active lane assist and emergency assist.
Comfort and Style option packages are also available.
The all-new Audi Q3 Sportback is expected to arrive in March, when first customer deliveries will take place.
Pricing (plus on road costs)
| Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI S line | 110kW | $49,900 |
| Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI Launch Edition | 110kW | $56,450 |
Once we have tested and assessed the new Audi Q3 Sportback, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.