OHLALA TEST-DROVE THE SECOND-GENERATION AUDI Q3, A COMFORTABLE COMPACT FAMILY SUV WITH PLENTY TO OFFER.
Tracing its roots back as far as 1899, the German automotive manufacturer Audi AG is a world-renowned brand loved for its high-performance vehicles, innovative approach to design and unwavering dedication to improving on previous offerings.
At OHLALA, we have had the privilege of test-driving numerous models from this beloved brand over the years. This month, thanks to the team at Audi Centre Bahrain, we got the opportunity to thoroughly inspect the new Audi Q3, a compact family SUV we took great pleasure in putting through its paces.
ATHLETIC EXTERIOR
As we approached the second-generation Q3, we were immediately struck by its sportier appearance. This model’s athletic prowess is partially due to the striking SingleFrame grille with an octagon design divided up by vertical bars. Further adding to the front end are the trapezoidal outer air inlets and the horizontal line running below the headlights across the front.
We appreciated the makeup of the narrow LED headlights that taper inwards in a wedge shape, along with the strong shoulder line that formally connects the symmetrical lighting graphics of the headlights to those at the rear.
The muscular wheel wells with contrasting wheel arch trims, housing 18- inch aluminium wheels, emphasised the vehicle’s robust look. We admired the low roofline that ends in strong, evenly raked D pillars, endowing the Q3 with a sense of forward thrust even on the showroom floor.
Moving to the back end, we took in the attractive L-shaped taillights as well as the wide roof spoiler that flanks the rear window on either side. We liked how the diffuser inserts, with four ribs, round off the rear at the bottom, smartly integrating with the tailpipe design trim.
“Audi has managed to merge the beauty of the materials and layout with the functionality of the in-car tech.”
DYNAMIC INTERIOR
Once inside the cabin, we were instantly impressed by the internal architecture of the brand’s latest creation. A large panoramic sunroof allows for plenty of natural light, making it all the easier for us to complete our inspection.
Audi has managed to merge the beauty of the materials and layout with the functionality of the in-car tech. A great example is how the dashboard effortlessly harmonises with the digital operating concept.
We loved the discreet manner in which the central MMI display is inserted in the high-gloss black surround. Sporting an octagonal shape, it echoes the motif of the SingleFrame and is bordered by a classy chrome strip.
We also appreciated the manner in which all displays, buttons and controls are ergonomically positioned, with everything designed with the driver in mind.
The distinctly horizontal lines of the instrument panel give the interior an open and airy feel, whilst the robust look of the door panel reflects the strong SUV character of the new Q3.
Along with plenty of head, shoulder and leg room for all occupants, this family SUV houses the largest in-segment luggage compartment with a capacity of 530 litres, making it ideal for day-to-day use. This area can be increased up to 1,525 litres with adjustments to the rear seating and backrests.
OUTSTANDING TECH AND INFOTAINMENT
Audi has overhauled the operating and display concept in the second-generation Q3, eliminating all analogue instruments. These had been replaced in our standard model, featuring MMI radio plus, by a digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch screen diagonal, which we could operate via the multifunctional steering wheel.
The team at Audi Centre Bahrain informed us that MMI Radio Plus can be upgraded to the Audi virtual cockpit. This allows the customer to configure the operating system in many areas. In addition to the usual data, such as road and engine speed, it also displays information on music tracks and Audi Connect services.
Other great features of this digital instrument are the free-text search and voice control capabilities. We entered a navigation destination using free text on a virtual keypad when the vehicle was stationary, and we also used handwriting recognition. This resulted in a list of restaurant options appearing after entering just a few letters.
What proved even more useful was the new natural language voice control option that allowed us to use freely structured wording to locate a desired destination. After voicing a sentence like “I am hungry,” the system responded by suggesting restaurants nearby. The dialogue manager can also ask questions, when necessary, allow for corrections, offer choices and defer to the speaker when interrupted. We have to admit we had a lot of fun with this feature.
We also discovered the Audi smartphone interface, which integrates the AMI, to establish contact with our iOS and Android mobile phones. This brought our Apple CarPlay and Android Auto environment onto the MMI display.
We must also mention the Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound. It provided a fantastic audio experience. Its 15-speaker setup produces a total output of 680 watts. Four additional speakers in the dashboard, which use the reflections of the windshield, and one speaker per D pillar generate the 3D sound.
SATISFYING POWER AND PERFORMANCE
Once able to tear ourselves away from all the trimmings and tech of the interior, it was time to head to our performance testing site. En route, we acknowledged the smooth ride, feeling the responsive nature of the steering and braking systems.
The new Q3 comes with a range of TFSI engine choices. Our test-drive model was powered by the entry-level, 1.5-litre 35 TFSI petrol engine. Coupled with a manual six-speed transmission, this capable motor generated up to 150hp and 250Nm of torque. We were informed that this option is exclusively available with front-wheel drive.
Accelerating from 0-100km/h in a respectable 9.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 211km/h, we found this more than adequate for a day-today family SUV. There are, however, more powerful options available if desired, all of which are refined and efficient four-cylinder turbo engines.
FIRST-CLASS DRIVER ASSISTANCE AND SAFETY
It came as no surprise that the Q3 is top of its class when it comes to safety and driver assistance features.
Amongst these are adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, active lane assist, park assist, cross traffic assist rear, emergency brake assist and active lane assist.
Audi has bundled the most important systems in the assistance package. Along with the adaptive cruise assist, it comprises camera-based traffic sign recognition, the parking system plus, the high-beam assist and the emergency assist. The latter detects, within system limits, whether the driver is inactive and accordingly provides a visual, acoustic and haptic warning. If this does not prompt a reaction from the driver, the system takes control of the Audi Q3 and automatically stops it in its own lane.
OUR VERDICT
Audi’s second-generation Q3 is an innovative, compact SUV that looks good, drives well and takes care of you and your loved ones when on the go.
For more information or to book a test drive of your own,
please call Audi Centre Bahrain on 1745 9933.
@audibahrain