Audi Q3 launched – 2.0 TFSI, 170 hp, RM258k

six_points · Post time 30-6-2012 12:25 AM

Euromobil officially launched the Audi Q3 moments ago at the Subang Skypark. The made-in-Spain Q3 is the smallest Q model in Audi’s SUV range, and it will take on the BMW X1 in the market, not the X3 as its name might suggest. Available here with a 2.0 TFSI engine with 170 hp, the Q3 costs RM258k OTR without insurance. The S line version of the same car is RM279k.

Audi’s entry level SUV sits on a modified VW Tiguan platform. Size wise, the Q3 is 4.39 metres long and 1.83 metres wide, which is slightly wider but 64 mm shorter than a BMW X1. Compared to the Q5, it’s 239 mm shorter and 50 mm narrower, so there’s a clear size gap between the two. The boot is expandable from 460 to 1,365 litres.

Audi claims that the Q3′s drag coefficient of 0.32 raises the bar in this segment and there’s an underbody fairing that facilitates optimum airflow. The usage of tailored blanks and aluminium for the bonnet and tailgate reduce weight.

Under the hood, the 2.0 litre TFSI engine makes 170 hp at 4,300 to 6,300 rpm, and 280 Nm of torque from 1,700 to 4,200rpm. The turbocharged lump is mated to a seven-speed S-tronic dual clutch transmission.

Power goes to all four corners via quattro AWD, which has a simpler and lighter Haldex multi-plate clutch arrangement here in place of the Q5′s Torsen-based full-time system. The Q3 does the 0-100 km/h sprint fairly quick in 7.8 seconds, while top speed is 212 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is 7.7 litres per 100 km.

Audi drive select manipulates the accelerator, steering, and S tronic. There are Auto, Comfort, Dynamic and Efficiency modes to choose from. In the latter, the air con and cruise control operate with the specific aim of saving fuel, and the S tronic disengages a clutch when coasting.

The Q3′s ESP integrates an electronic differential lock, which regulates the distribution of drive to the wheels via barely perceptible braking at the limit of cornering, which aids handling. The ESP also includes trailer stabilisation. Also included is hill hold assist and an electromechanical parking brake.

Looks wise, it’s unmistakably Audi. The front is dominated by the single-frame grille with tapered upper corners, and there are of course LED daytime running lights, but they’re in the newer light bar form here. The Q3′s profile and shape isn’t too far from big brother Q5, but I see some A1 in the more raked D-pillar here. Together with a gently sloping roofline, Audi calls it coupe-like. The wraparound tailgate follows Q norms.

Standard equipment include xenon plus headlamps, anti-glare and heated wing mirrors, headlight washers, leatherette seats (front electric with lumbar), six airbags, ESP, ISOFIX (front passenger and rear), light/rain sensor, parking aid plus with park display, cruise control, start stop and an Audi concert radio system.

The latter has a six-channel amplifier, 10 speakers and a 180-watt total output. AUX, Bluetooth and SDHC reader are the other functions. All the info is displayed on a 6.5-inch TFT colour display.

The S line package, which costs an additional RM21k, includes a three-spoke steering wheel (normal four-spoke), Alcantara material for the seats, S line door sills, chrome fog lamp surrounds, chrome grille slats, and 18-inch alloys with a different design. The cabin headlining is in black.

In addition, Euromobil has a optional equipment list, which includes comfort key (RM2,500), pearl effect colour (RM3,500), Bose surrond sound system (14 speakers, 465 watts, RM5,000) and a panoramic roof for RM6,000.

Look out for the review, which will be coming soon.

Credit: paultan.org