New 2013 Audi Q3 S review, test drive

Entry into the luxury segment is becoming more affordable. But while most are launching premium hatches, Audi answers with a pared down Q3 SUV.

Published on Aug 08, 2013 04:49:00 PM

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That means this two-wheel-drive Q3 gets to 100kph in 9.9sec as against the Quattro’s 8.3sec – not too bad a disadvantage, and in the real world, has more than enough performance. Compare it to rivals like the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz A 180, and you’ll see that it is pretty much par for the course.

Like we’ve come to expect of recent Audi diesels, this four-cylinder, 2.0-litre TDI is smooth and very refined, and Audi’s ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure is a decent 17.3kpl.

As for the way it drives, this Q3, in the dry conditions we drove it, had plenty of grip and we really didn’t miss the all-wheel-drive traction of its sibling. The handling is secure, if uninspiring, and the Q3’s stability at speed is rock solid. It rides well too – the suspension is pliant and handles broken surfaces well.

As for the insides, even on this test mule, fit and finish are as good as you would find on any Audi, and there’s really no difference in the way the dashboard looks in the Q3 S. The dials are the same, the steering wheel and gear lever are leather wrapped, and there’s even an MMI system. Sure, there is some lightness to build quality, but even in this trim, the dashboard feels a lot more interesting than say the BMW X1’s.