Audi Q3 test drive: make sure to check out these features!
After arriving to widespread local acclaim (but with a limited model range) at the end of 2019, the all-new Audi Q3 range has since expanded to include a 2.0-litre engine option and a “coupé-like” Sportback derivative. As befits a modern Audi, plenty of added-cost options are available, but let’s check out some cool standard features instead.
In a marketplace that is increasingly gravitating towards SUVs and crossovers, the Audi Q3 has always been an important product in this brand’s arsenal. As before, the latest-generation Q3 employs the same platform as its Volkswagen (Tiguan) cousin, codenamed “MQB” in the latest generation. This means a growth spurt in almost all directions, as well as significantly enhanced cabin space all round.
While the option list is extensive, Audi was kind enough to include a number of neat features as standard. These include in-cabin technology, practical measures, and Audi’s LED-trickery, all of which will come under the spotlight in this article.
Related: Get the low-down on the new Audi Q3 Sportback in this first drive report.
1. Versatile packaging and practicality
The new Audi Q3 has a nifty 40/20/40 split rear seating arrangement, as well as a sliding function that allows up to 150mm of rear seat travel. This allows owners to allocate room where it’s needed the most, prioritising either rear-seat comfort or luggage capacity.
This leads to highly variable space utilisation, with the luggage compartment’s minimum volume set at 530 litres and its maximum at 675 litres. In addition, the rear seat backrests are rake-adjustable, with 15 different angles from which to choose. Combined with the new Q3’s stretched wheelbase and increased overall length, this makes the latest model more comfortable and a lot more versatile than before (and better than many competitors, too!)
Related: In this video review, we found the new Audi Q3 35TFSI to be quite charming.
2. Digital dashboard
Audi was one of the first manufacturers to introduce a digital instrument cluster, and they’ve since refined their application of this technology to keep abreast of their opponents. The Q3 has a configurable digital cluster as standard, which can be upgraded from a 10.25-inch screen to 12.3 inches by ticking the “Virtual cockpit plus” option box.
Depending on other options or specified packages, it will also interface with the navigation and vehicle control systems as an integrated whole, and it’s all managed via the comprehensive array of steering wheel-mounted controls.
Related: Is the new Audi Q3 the modern family’s dream car? This review reveals all.
3. Impressive infotainment
The new Q3 ships with a pretty impressive audio system as standard, with the usual selection of upgrade options to add yet more tech and ever-bigger display screens on the menu as well. The base unit supports full smartphone integration, the aforementioned steering wheel remote controls, basic Audi Connect functionality, and an 8.8-inch colour touchscreen. Audio is played through a 10-speaker arrangement with a 180W output rating, built-in subwoofer, and centre speaker.
Available upgrades include a 10.1-inch centre display screen, navigation, and “Audi phone box”. The latter item is particularly handy, because it amplifies your cellular signal through the car’s own aerial, and provides a wireless charging tray in the centre console. In addition, audio quality can be further enhanced with a 15-speaker, 680W Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with virtual 3D sound.
Related: If you want your Audi Q3 with red-hot flavour, there’s a new RS Q3 arriving in South Africa early in 2021.
4. LEDs everywhere
Audi was an early adopter of LED lighting units, and have developed their ideas even further with the new Q3. The base spec includes static, load-compensating LED headlamps, but this can be uprated to adaptive matrix LEDs, which add dynamic light distribution and high-beam assist to the equation.
Another signature Audi trick is their sequential turn signals, which appears as standard on all Q3 derivatives. If nothing else, they look very cool, but they likely also add an extra safety margin by virtue of being more visible than normal, static indicators. The tail light clusters also employ LED tech, and the standard cabin illumination can be enhanced with optional configurable ambient lighting.
Related: The top 5 Audi Q3 articles on AutoTrader.
