Despite the debut of an upcoming vehicle, possibly the latest iteration to the Audi Q5, the popular Audi Q3 received a few fresh upgrades and will hit the market this fall.
The changes are significant, and this is particularly highlighted in the car's appearance. The cosmetic makeover has been dominated by sharper and more angular aesthetics, which some consider a nod toward the design language of the car's bigger sibling, the Q7.
The changes are best demonstrated by the inclusion of bolder crease lines and a revamped single-frame grille. The latter also features new diamond-pattern inserts, larger air inlets and glossy black mesh that contribute to a more aggressive front end.
The Audi Q3 also comes with a more sporty S Line version called S Line Competition Special Edition. The variant has stronger color scheme as evidenced by the dark finish of the grille, complemented by the black wheel arches and door trim. The roof rail, side mirror housing and window trim also feature the same dark accent. The color scheme extends to the 19-inch wheels, which is also painted with high-gloss black. The wheels are also reminiscent of the ones outfitted in the Audi Sport Range.
True to the branding, the interior is also dominated by a combination of leather and fabric materials. The S Line also features the sport suspension, the Audi Drive Select system.
The 2017 Audi Q3 is a luxury-oriented, compact cross-over SUV that used to be the smallest in its range. This is no longer the case after Audi launched the Q2 earlier this year. Although the car is relatively new in the United States, with the 2015 model as the first to ever hit American roads, it has been unleashed in Germany, its home country, and in Europe as early as 2012.
One should note that crossover SUVs are now gaining more popularity in the United States as demand for compact sedans wane.
The Q3 is differentiated from the Q7 mainly by its smaller size. It has also less tech appointments and luxury accommodation. With the latest face-lift, however, both vehicles are closer than ever in terms of design language. In comparison with its previous iteration, the Q3 is touted to be more purposeful.
Pricing starts at $33,804 for the base model and $37,117 for the S Line variant. These figures are roughly the same as the 2016 levels. The vehicles will be available in Germany first before they roll out in the European and American markets. One should note, however, that official pricing and release date for the United States are still to be officially confirmed. The website for Audi USA currently states that the vehicle will retail for $31,800 MSRP, excluding taxes and other charges.
