Audi builds firm foundations for UK Q3 launch

Generous UK specification is an added attraction for new more compact Audi SUV:

• Third Audi Q-series model opens for ordering in June with attractive 24,560 OTR entry price first UK deliveries in November

• Four engines available, all directly injected and turbocharged and all optimised by start-stop and energy recuperation systems 2.0 TFSI 170PS, 2.0 TFSI 211PS, 2.0 TDI 140PS, 2.0 TDI 177PS

• New development of S tronic twin-clutch transmission for 2.0 TFSI 211PS and 2.0 TDI 177PS models clutch is disengaged during coasting phases to reduce draw on engine

• Efficiency-focused 2.0 TDI 140PS front-wheel-drive model offers 54.3mpg capability opens for order in June with deliveries from December

• In-car technology will include new generation MMI navigation plus, online Bluetooth car phone enabling access to Google services including Google Earth, WLAN connectivity, Audi drive select with efficiency mode, parallel and perpendicular park assist

The new Audi Q3 compact SUV is in good shape to take on the UK following the confirmation this week of keen pricing starting from 24,560 OTR, and the finalization of an impressive equipment list for all versions. Orders for the third Q-model in the series, which will have the distinction of being the first Audi SUV to offer the efficiency-focused option of a 54.3mpg front-wheel-drive variant, are set to begin in June. Deliveries will start in November.

Four engines will initially be available, all combining direct fuel injection with turbo charging and all backed up by start-stop and energy recuperation systems – the 2.0-litre TFSI petrol unit in 170PS and 211PS forms and the 2.0-litre TDI with 140PS and 177PS. The 2.0-litre TDI 140PS unit will power the front-wheel-drive model only at launch, deliveries of which will start in December, shortly after the rest of the range.

All other engines will be linked to quattro all-wheel-drive, but regardless of the configuration secure handling will be assured by the sophisticated Electronic Stability Program with electronic differential lock, which effectively regulates torque distribution by braking individual wheels when they start to slip.

New efficiency feature for S tronic

The 2.0 TDI 140PS and 2.0 TFSI 170PS engines will be linked to a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while the 2.0 TDI 177PS and 2.0 TFSI 211PS units will feature a new development of the acclaimed seven-speed S tronic transmission. If the optional Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system with its new efficiency mode is specified, the rapid-shifting twin-clutch transmission will now disengage its active clutch each time the driver lifts off the throttle, allowing the Q3 to use the momentum already built up to ‘coast’ without the need for engine input. When the efficiency mode is selected, the electronic climate control and cruise control systems also operate at the optimum level for minimal fuel consumption.

Inside the deceptively roomy Q3 there is seating for up to five adults, an accommodating load bay offering up to 1,365 litres of capacity thanks to split/folding rear seats, and an impressive level of standard equipment across the SE and S line specification levels.

Externally the SE option includes 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting exterior trim, chrome window trims, aluminium roof rails and rear parking sensors, and inside dual-zone climate control, a Concert audio system with 6.5-inch manually retractable colour display screen, Bluetooth interface, Audi Music Interface iPod connection and light and rain sensors. The Q3 will also come equipped with navigation preparation, enabling customers to ‘activate’ navigation retrospectively by purchasing an SD card if required.

For a premium of 2,750 in each case, the new Audi Q3 can be upgraded to the S line specification, which includes 18-inch alloy wheels, S line exterior and interior styling enhancements, and xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and LED rear tail lights.

Options include ‘steerable beam’ adaptive light technology for the xenon plus headlights, a high-beam assistant to intelligently illuminate the road ahead, the hard drive-based navigation system plus with seven-inch colour screen and 3D mapping and the side assist blind spot warning and lane assist lane departure warning driver aids.

Among the more practical extras is a luggage compartment package, a front-passenger seat with a folding seat back, a reversible loadliner, a reversible mat, a load sill protector made of stainless steel, a load-through hatch in the rear seat backrest and a ski bag.

In 2010 Audi recorded its best ever worldwide result of 1,092,400 sales, a 15 per cent improvement over 2009. In the UK, 99,828 Audi models found homes last year, a 9.5 per cent increase on 2009. To sustain the technological lead embodied in its Vorsprung durch Technik slogan, the brand plans to invest 11.6 billion, mainly in new products, between 2011 and 2015. By this point, its range will have expanded from today’s 35 models to a total of 42. Recent additions, including the A1 subcompact and the A7 Sportback, will be joined by, among others, the new A6 Saloon and the Q3 compact SUV. The R8 e-tron, the first fully electric series production Audi model, will also arrive in late 2012. On the race circuit Audi Sport has contested the Le Mans 24-hour race twelve times since 1999, achieving a podium finish on all of these occasions as well as outright victory 9 times. In 2011, Audi will campaign with an entirely new TDI diesel-powered ‘closed’ coupe sports prototype, the Audi R18.