The Audi Q3 Grew Up, Right As It Grew Bigger
All three reviews credit this third generation with fixing a genuine, long-standing weakness: previous versions felt like an A3 hatchback on stilts, and this one finally feels like a properly resolved SUV in its own right.
Illustration for editorial purposes
No Longer Just a Tall Hatchback
For two generations, this car's biggest criticism was feeling like an afterthought — a hatchback platform with a taller body bolted on. Reviewers keep confirming this generation has genuinely moved past that reputation.
Specs at a Glance
| Body styles | Q3 (SUV), Q3 Sportback (coupé-SUV) |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.5 TFSI 150 (mild-hybrid), 2.0 TDI diesel, 2.0 TFSI 204/265 Quattro, e-Hybrid 272 PHEV |
| PHEV electric range | Up to 74 miles official |
| Length | First Q3 to exceed 4.5m |
| Boot space | 488–575 litres |
Full Review Summary
Autocar
Autocar found the standard "Comfort" suspension surprisingly tetchy on UK roads, with a wooden feel at higher speeds despite reasonable low-speed compliance, though measured genuinely impressive cabin noise isolation at 61dBA at 50mph versus a class-typical 64-65dBA. They noted the Q3 has become strategically vital for Audi, trailing only the Q5 and A6 in global sales, with production capacity expanded specifically to meet demand.
What Car?
What Car? recommended the entry 1.5 TFSI 150 despite it needing to be worked hard above town speeds, rating it as offering adequate performance while keeping costs sensible. They praised confident handling with well-weighted steering and good resistance to body lean, though found the ride firm enough to thud through potholes more than the Volvo XC40, and rated the PHEV's 74-mile electric range as genuinely best-in-class for company car drivers.
Top Gear
Top Gear praised the new curved dual-display dashboard as bringing "large-car tech to a smaller footprint," though found the replacement of traditional stalks with stubby buttons for indicating and gear selection takes real adjustment. They rated the car as nailing every note an Audi SUV should hit — comfortable, easy to drive with just enough sporting nous — while noting the fancy Micro LED headlight light-show features felt more like a talking point than a genuinely useful upgrade.
Strengths
- Genuinely improved cabin quality over previous generations
- Excellent noise isolation and refinement
- Best-in-class PHEV electric range
- Confident, well-controlled handling with minimal body lean
Weak points
- Firm ride can feel tetchy on rougher UK roads
- New button-based indicator and gear selector take real adjustment
- Some safety equipment is a paid option rather than standard
- Pricing climbs quickly through the range
Who It Actually Suits
Buyers who want genuine premium SUV credentials and are willing to accept a firmer ride in exchange for sharper handling. The e-Hybrid 272 PHEV is worth serious consideration for company car drivers given its class-leading electric range.
Common Audi Q3 Parts & Costs
- Audi Q3 Alternator
- Audi Q3 Battery
- Audi Q3 Brake Discs
- Audi Q3 Brake Pads
- Audi Q3 Cabin Air Filter
- Audi Q3 Engine Mount
- Audi Q3 Exhaust System
- Audi Q3 Fog Lights
- Audi Q3 Front Bumper
- Audi Q3 Front Suspension
- Audi Q3 Fuel Pump
- Audi Q3 Grille
- Audi Q3 Headlights
- Audi Q3 Radiator
- Audi Q3 Rear Bumper
- Audi Q3 Rear Suspension
- Audi Q3 Spark Plugs
- Audi Q3 Tail Lights
- Audi Q3 Timing Belt
- Audi Q3 Wing Mirror
More Audi Reviews
Watch the Reviews
Audi Q3 review ↗ (same video, watch above ↗)