Audi Q3 Review 2023
Audi Q3 At A Glance
Insurance Groups are between 24–38
On average it achieves 83% of the official MPG figure
The second generation of Audi Q3 finds itself swamped with competition from almost every angle. The compact SUV market is booming, and the Audi Q3 has to fight off rivals like the BMW X1 and the Mercedes GLB, along with models from mainstream brands such as the Hyundai Tucson and its Korean stablemate the Kia Sportage. Read on for our full Audi Q3 review.
When the original Audi Q3 was launched back in 2011, it hardly set the world alight with excitement. Compared to its rivals at the time, it offered only a mediocre driving experience, while its interior dated rapidly in this image-conscious area of the market.
It meant there was a lot of pressure on the second-generation model, which first went on sale in 2018. For a start, the current Audi Q3 certainly looks more imposing and premium, with plenty of sharp angles and a bold front grille.
Add in features such as LED lighting and the racy bodykit found on S line models, and it certainly has the image side of things sorted.
Should you really prefer style over rear practicality, Audi will happily sell you the Audi Q3 Sportback instead. This is a separate model pitched at the BMW X2 and the Mercedes GLA. It has coupe-like styling, but less rear space and a larger price tag.
The Audi Q3’s interior was also overhauled for this second-generation car, taking inspiration from the flagship Audi Q8 SUV.
Although it mimics the bigger car in style, some of the materials used in the cabin are a touch sub-premium. Although hardly a deal-breaker, it’s a reminder that even Audi sometimes has to build down to a price.
On the plus side, the interior is hugely practical, with particular credit going to the sliding rear seats. These can move backwards and forwards by 150mm, allowing a trade-off to be made between boot capacity or rear legroom. The rear backrest angle can also be adjusted, helping taller passengers to sit more comfortably.
With a wide range of engines, including three petrol options, two diesels and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), there is an Audi Q3 to suit every need. The Audi Q3 TFSI 45 e PHEV is noteworthy for its low running costs, including the potential to reach an official 176.6mpg.
There is also the related Audi RS Q3 model, for those who want a crossover SUV to deliver rapid performance, such as 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds. This version earns its own separate review.
The RS Q3 aside, however, the Audi Q3 is still not the most fun compact SUV to drive. A BMW X1 will deliver more engaging handling, and the Audi Q3’s ride can feel taut on Black Edition versions.
Even in a competitive market, which has new rivals seemingly added daily, the Audi Q3 still has a lot going for it. It nails the brief for being a practical family SUV and the recent changes to trim levels mean even the cheapest version comes stacked with plenty of equipment.
Other than the less-than-premium quality in small sections of the cabin, plus a relatively remote driving experience, the Audi Q3 delivers on everything you could ask of it. It certainly atones for its first-generation predecessor, and is a worthy contender in this class.
Fancy a second opinion? Read heycar's Audi Q3 review.