Audi Q3 was a game-changer when it debuted in 2011. It was the first luxury compact crossover in the industry, giving birth to the likes of BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace, and Volvo XC40, among others. Even then, the family SUV felt flat compared to the rest of Audi’s line-up – lacking in quality and performance typically expected of the German brand.

Now in its second generation, the Philippine-spec crossover finally comes into its own. The recently launched all-new Audi Q3 is touted as an “all-rounder” that combines practicality, top-notch safety features, and improved performance in a luxurious and more comfortably-sized package.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2020 Audi Q3.

2020 Audi Q3 Exterior

Audi Q3 has a sportier and more aggressive look that puts its predecessor to shame. Pumped with testosterone, the latest model features the following design changes:

• Edgier single-frame octagon front grill
• Chrome vertical bars pop out against the black lateral bars of the front grill
• Geometric headlights and side air inlets are wedged to the side
• Deeper hood, belt, and shoulder lines
• Contrasting wheel arch trims
• Symmetrical graphics on the headlights and tail lamps
• Steeply raked D pillars across the body
• Long roof edge spoiler and aluminum roof rails
• Rear-end is divided into two zones for better visibility
• L-shaped tail lamps
• 17-inch to 18-inch aluminum wheels (depending on the trim)

Meanwhile, the Audi Q3 currently available in the Philippines will have these bonus features:

• 20-inch wheels similar to Audi Sport
• Matrix LED headlights
• Black-finished Audi rings on the front grille and rear end

Which color options are available for Audi Q3?

The 2020 Audi Q3 will come in two colors – Pulse Orange and Chronos Gray. However, the platinum-colored wheel arches stand out more in the orange model.

2020 Audi Q3 Dimensions

Audi Q3 has mostly grown in size, measuring 97 mm longer and 25 mm wider than its predecessor. It also has a wider wheelbase by 77 mm, though its height is shorter by 5 mm.

Measurements	2020 Audi Q3
Length	4485 mm
Width	1856 mm
Height	1585 mm
Wheelbase	2680 mm

2020 Audi Q3 Interior

Audi Q3 embraces Volkswagen Group’s MQB framework for its second generation. The modular transverse matrix allows the crossover to retain a compact body while providing more headroom, legroom, and elbow room.

Luggage space has also been expanded in the new Audi Q3. It can now store a minimum of 530 to 675 liters worth of cargo, or a maximum of 1,525 liters if you fold the back seats.

Audi has redesigned the dashboard to resemble its larger siblings as it now features:

• A seamless high-gloss black dashboard
• 10.1-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• 10.25-inch digital cluster

Both the digital cluster and audio panel are enclosed in octagonal frames to match the design of the front grill. The digital cluster is available in two options – MMI Radio, which shows the road and engine speeds; and MMI Radio Plus, which displays music track information and Audi Connect Services on top of the standard features.

What are the other comfort and design features found inside Audi Q3?

Aesthetically, the 2020 Audi Q3 will have metal, wood grain, and soft panels throughout its interior. Some models can be specified with wood and fabric trims.

Comfort is optimized for rear passengers who can move their seats forward and backward by 5.9 inches, and adjust the backrest in seven stages. The compact crossover also offers the convenience of an electronic tailgate.

If you opt for the special edition Audi Q3, you’ll get these added features:

• Sports seats with contrasting stitching
• Leather steering wheel
• Ambient lighting
• Alcantara-finished instrument panel and armrests

2020 Audi Q3 Specs

Audi’s luxury SUV packs a 1.4-liter turbocharged gas mill mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Combined, these specs give Audi Q3 a noteworthy performance. The SUV can go from 0 to 100 kmph in just 8.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 kmph.

Below are the Audi Q3 Specifications

Specifications	2020 Audi Q3
Engine type	1.4L In-line 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Engine
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	7-speed S tronic dual-clutch manual transmission
Drive mode	Front-wheel drive
Maximum power output	150 hp
Peak torque	250 Nm

2020 Audi Q3 Variants

Audi Philippines is offering the special edition Audi Q3. However, the German automaker is planning to expand the line by bringing in the S and RS variants to the local market including four engine options.

2020 Audi Q3 Price

The second-generation Audi Q3 will retail for Php 3,390,000.

How does the new Audi Q3 compare against rivals in terms of price?

The 2020 Audi Q3 is fairly priced for a luxury SUV. It’s not as expensive as Jaguar E-Pace and Range Rover Evoque, and is in the same price range as two of its biggest competitors – BMW X1 and Volvo XC40.

But if you’re looking for more competitive options, you’re better off with the Mercedes Benz GLA and Lexus UX. With a starting price under P3-million, these compact crossovers give you the same premium experience for a lower price point.

2020 Audi Q3 Safety Features

The new Audi Q3 is equipped with Pre Sense System in the front and rear. It allows the vehicle to monitor for dangers involving cyclists, pedestrians, and other cars. If the system detects something, the driver will be notified with a visual, audible, and haptic warning. Emergency brakes will also be initiated when necessary.

Some of the more notable features added to the SUV include Adaptive Cruise Control, a 360-degree view monitor, and a reverse-view camera. These equip the vehicle with driver-assist features such as:

• Adaptive speed assist
• Active lane assist
• Traffic jam assist
• Hold and park assist
• Cross traffic assist with rear cross traffic alert
• Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
• Blind spot monitoring

Other safety features found in the 2020 Audi Q3 are:

• Electronic stability control
• Electromechanical power steering
• Hill descent control

Due to its wide range of safety features, Audi Q3 earned a 5-star rating under the Euro New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). It also passed the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s crash test, where it earned the Top Safety Pick Plus.

2020 Audi Q3 Competition

Audi Q3 has some pretty strong rivals, but its biggest contender is the BMW X1. Between the two, Audi Q3 lives up to the design standards of a luxury SUV.

However, the sleek-looking BMW X1 drives a hard bargain with a more powerful range-topping variant. BMW X1 xDrive20d can deliver up to 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque while maintaining a great fuel efficiency of 15-23 kmpl.

Verdict

The all-new Audi Q3 is greatly improved in terms of design and safety, but with a performance, that’s somewhat middling compared to its rivals. While it has impressive acceleration, its maximum power output and peak torque are lack-luster.

In spite of its shortcomings, we still think that the 2020 Audi Q3 is worth the upgrade. It’s a true all-around SUV – beautiful, safe to drive in, and a decent performer.

Also Read:- 2020 Audi Q3 has landed on the Philippine shores