Audi has just unveiled the all-new Q3 crossover during a press conference at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Q3 has so far been a successful model for the four rings since its launch in 2011, and the brand is looking to further elevate it with fresh styling and new technologies.
Audi applied the same design elements to the new Q3 as it did with the new Q7, which made its debut late last year. A new three-dimensional single frame grille sits upfront and is flanked by newly structured Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights. The side of the car is coupe-like, with a flowing, early-sloping roof that tapers off into a flat D-pillar section. Out back, sculpted, wrap-around tailgate makes the Q3 appear wider, adding to the small SUV’s road presence.
The body of the Q3 now uses special hot-shaped steels, which are thin, yet extremely strong, allowing the new Q3 to be both more structurally stiff than the outgoing model, and lighter. The special steels are used in the B-pillar, the roof frame and interior sills. Additionally, both the hood and tailgate are made of aluminum, shaving off 19.4 and 23.8 pounds, respectively.
A range of both diesel and gasoline engines will be on offer in the new Q3. The entry level gasoline engine is a 1.4-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter TFSI turbo four is available in both 176 horsepower and 217 horsepower versions. A 147 horsepower 2.0-liter diesel engine is also available. An S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox is the sole transmission option, showever it is available in both seven- and six-speed configurations.
A range of infotainment options are offered in the new Q3, Audi says. A fold-out color monitor displays Audi’s mixed media interface radio, which can be combined an optional connectivity package, adding navigation system preparation, Bluetooth connectivity and the Audi music interface. There’s also an available WiFi hotspot, allowing passengers to surf the web or check e-mail, while enabling the driver to use Audi connect features such as Google Earth and Google Street View.
A number of driver assistance systems are also offered, including standard secondary collision brake assist, which prevents the car from rolling away in an uncontrolled manner and causing a secondary collision following a crash. There’s also side assist, which warns drivers of vehicles in the Q3’s blind spot, active lane assist, park assist, and a camera-based road sign recognition system.
Audi has yet to announce pricing details for the new Q3, however additional information should become available as its June launch date nears.
No Comments yet