With all the big names in auto debuting new cars from the Mercedes EQS-AMG and the 5th Gen Range Rover to the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica, Audi does not want to be left behind. Thus, launching the second-gen Audi Q3 in India was only logical for the brand. This new beast comes with two variants – the entry-level Premium Plus and the top-of-the-line Technology.
The reintroduction of the Q3, just two years after its discontinuation means we are likely to see some big improvements in the new model. In India, the Q3 will be available in a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo petrol engine. The SUV is no longer available in the diesel variant but can produce some serious performance, claiming 0-100k/h in 7.3seconds (it's no Urus Performante, but hey it's about a tenth the price!). It is capable of producing 190hp and 320Nm of torque and the engine is paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
On the exterior, the new Q3 is larger than its predecessor in terms of length width and wheelbase. The design is Q7-esque with new, sleeker LED headlamps, a large octagonal grille and angular bumper creases. This is pretty starkly different to the softer design of the earlier model. Equipped with 18-inch alloys as standard, the Q3 will be offered in five exterior paint shades – Pulse Orange, Glacier White, Chronos Grey, Mythos Black and Navarra Blue.
But the interior is what is truly interesting. Audi seems to have crammed a lot of tech into the cockpit. From the MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch system to the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus and the ambient lighting (just like your fancy gaming setup). There is a comfort key with a gesture-controlled tailgate and the boot electrically opens and closes. You even get a wireless charging system on the inside and for the audiophiles out there you should be well taken care of with the 180W audio system made up of ten speakers. There is a 10.1in touchscreen infotainment system integrated into the dashboard, but they have stuck to physical dials and buttons for the cooling system.
The car comes equipped with six airbags for safety. The Audi Q3 Premium Plus will be available for ₹44,89,000 (ex-showroom) while the Audi Q3 Technolgy will be available for ₹50,39,000. Bookings are underway for ₹2 lakh.