Review: Audi Q3

It’s hard to believe the Audi Q3 has been around for more than 10 years, with over two million sold since its launch.

Now in its third generation, the premium compact SUV remains roomy enough to carry five adults comfortably, with generous luggage space.

Styling has evolved little from the previous generation, if anything becoming more understated, with black trim replacing silver around the windows and front grille.

Audi faces growing competition from cheaper Chinese brands and must demonstrate its premium models still offer value.

The Q3 starts at £38,300, but extras quickly push up the price. Our S line TDI test car cost £45,790 before adding £695 for metallic paint, a £1,300 sound and vision pack and a £925 towbar, taking the total to £48,710.

Two body styles are available: the conventional SUV tested here and the sportier-looking Sportback. Buyers can choose Sport, S line or Edition 1 trim, with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Manual gearboxes are no longer offered. Petrol and diesel engines use a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the plug-in hybrid has a six-speed automatic.

Most models drive through the front wheels, although Quattro four-wheel drive is available on more powerful versions.

We tested the frugal lower-powered diesel, increasingly unusual in an era dominated by petrol hybrids and electric vehicles. Producing 148bhp and 265lb ft of torque, it proved more than adequate, reaching 62mph from rest in 9.2 seconds and with a potential top speed of 129mph.

It delivers a comfortable, relaxing drive, with the elevated seating position providing a good view of the road. Parking sensors and a reversing camera make manoeuvring straightforward.

The suspension absorbs bumps effectively without compromising the steering, which provides reassuring feedback.

Inside, however, there are a few quirks. The column-mounted gear selector on the right is familiar enough, but having the indicators and wipers on the opposite side occasionally led to accidental selections of neutral.

The left-hand control is more switch than stalk, with the wipers operated by a small knurled wheel. We repeatedly caught it by mistake, switching the wipers off. I suspect familiarity would eventually overcome these irritations, but first impressions were not entirely favourable.

The 12.8in infotainment touchscreen is clear, responsive and easy to navigate. Although touchscreens are now unavoidable, Audi’s system is among the better examples.

Alongside it sits an 11.9in driver's display offering several layouts, including a rev counter and a representation of the road ahead showing approaching and oncoming traffic across lanes. A head-up display is also fitted.

Cabin storage is plentiful, with USB ports dotted throughout.

The boot offers 488 litres, expanding to 1,386 litres with the rear seats folded. A towing capacity of up to 2,100kg adds further practicality.

The Q3 remains a capable, comfortable and versatile premium SUV, although its price demands careful consideration when rivals offer increasingly compelling alternatives.

Audi Q3

Price: £45,790 (£48,710 as tested)

Engine: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel

Power: 148bhp

Torque: 265lb/ft

Transmission: Seven-speed dual clutch

Top speed: 129mph

0-62mph: 9.2 seconds

Economy: 51.7mpg

CO2 emissions: 143g/km