2023 Audi Q3

A mixed picture inside. So far, we’ve established that the Q3 isn’t especially spacious or practical. In terms of style and substance, it’s also flawed. You don’t have to be a Volkswagen obsessive to notice dashboard components that have been repurposed from the VW Group parts bin, while swathes of cheap black plastic do little to raise the cabin ambiance. It looks better in photos than it does in the metal (or plastic), featuring a monochrome color palette rivals have long since moved away from.

At least there’s generous small-item storage for the paraphernalia of modern life around the interior, while the rear seat slides to offer a little extra cargo storage when necessary. By default, there are over 18 cubic feet of space back here, which is good by class standards. The tailgate opens to reveal a clear opening and a flat load bay, making it easy to get items in and out, and the back seat folds in a practical 40/20/40 format to accommodate lengthy items.

Good equipment levels. We have to acknowledge a generous level of standard-fit equipment across the Q3 range. Go for the Premium model, and you get a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.8-inch touchscreen, blind spot monitoring, heated leather front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. New for 2023 are wireless phone charging and LED headlights. Premium Plus builds on this with adaptive cruise and surround-view cameras, while a further $2,700 options package combines Audi’s acclaimed virtual cockpit with a Sonos audio system.

Premium Plus models are fitted with the larger of the Q3’s two takes on a two-liter turbocharged engine. The 40 variant is underwhelming with its 184 horses, so it’s advisable to upgrade to the 228 hp 45 version. Not only does this knock a second off the 0-60 sprint, it feels significantly more responsive. Both engines are smooth and quiet, though the suspension betrays the car’s bulk by sending jolts through to the interior. The eight-speed automatic transmission gearbox combines well with the standard all-wheel drive for grip even in poor conditions, but don’t expect much driving pleasure, since the steering is as numb as we’ve come to expect from Audi. On a brighter note, it’s brilliant for low-speed maneuvers, with a tight turning circle simplifying car parks.

A price to be paid. The Q3 range starts at $37,995 for the 40 Premium and $41,295 for a 40 Premium Plus, while the 45 Premium is slightly cheaper than the latter. Only Premium Plus trims offer the high-end options packages which add considerably to the Q3’s appeal, but by then the price is nudging $50,000. That’s Acura MDX territory, which brings a lot more metal for your buck. Q3 running costs are also on the high side – you’ll struggle to better 24 mpg combined, while the four-year warranty doesn’t include scheduled maintenance.

Final thoughts. What’s the point of the Q3? Studying it dispassionately, it’s hard to think of anything it does especially well, or identify any unique selling points. It’s an also-ran in the fiercely competitive small SUV market, but it’s also one of the weakest models in Audi’s current range. The Q5 is far better at transporting people and the A3 is cheaper and better to drive, while the Mercedes-Benz GLC is more stylish and Volvo’s XC60 runs rings around the Q3 in terms of its interior.

If you find yourself irresistibly drawn to the Q3, you’re not getting a bad car by any means. It’s well assembled, spacious for four adults, and good at swallowing cargo. The cheapest Premium model is generously equipped and its infotainment screen is pin-sharp, though its 4,000-pound body means the 40 engine can feel underpowered once you’re fully loaded. It also has a literal and metaphorical impact on ride quality, meaning this isn’t the most comfortable SUV across bridge joins and uneven asphalt, especially since the standard front seats are already lacking in comfort.

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