The current Audi Q3 is old. It's a design born in 2011. However, Audi is changing that in hopes of freshening up its lineup to compete with its German rival Mercedes. The company promised a refreshed, new, or next-gen car every three weeks, and there isn't Audi fatigue yet as the company unveils the second-generation Q3 for 2019. It sports a new look, more technology, and a variety of powertrains.
The design steals cues from throughout Audi's lineup of new and refreshed offerings. It looks athletic, with svelte haunches over the wheel wells. The profile looks like Audi grafted the Q8's design on a smaller body. The grille sports vertical slates while the headlights look like enlarged units from the new A3 Sportback. The new Q3 grows, adding 9.65 centimetres in length and 7.6 cm to the wheelbase.
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Audi will offer a slew of diesel and petrol powertrain choices for the Q3. However, the company will only provide three at launch, and Audi isn't detailing the entire lineup. A 187-brake horsepower 2.0-litre will be available paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The new Q3 also receives a six-mode “dynamic handling system” – which offers Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Off-Road, Efficiency, and Individual mode. Automatic damping control is also available.
Inside, you can see some Q8 influence in the design. The Q3 doesn't have the dual touchscreens for the centre console; however, it does retain some similar shapes. The infotainment screen sits above physical HVAC controls. The photos show a clean, upscale interior. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with four USB ports (two in the front and two in the rear) and a 12-volt outlet in the back.
The Audi Q3 comes packed with safety technology. Forward emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, and lane departure warning are all available.
The 2019 Audi Q3 hits European dealerships in November.
Gallery: 2019 Audi Q3