2024 Audi Q3: All-New Audi Q3 Compact Luxury SUV Review

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2024 Audi Q3 is Audi’s most affordable SUV as it puts a small twist on the brand’s signature design concept that permeates the entire Audi portfolio. Its external shape resembles a seven-tenths version of its Q5 sibling, and this trait extends to the interior, build quality, and driving personality.

All-wheel drive is standard on the 2024 Audi Q3 and also comes with adaptive cruise control, which works in tandem with a digital gauge display, touchscreen infotainment, and a wealth of driver aids to keep the Q3’s technological capabilities competitive in its class.

In addition, the 2024 Audi Q3 is also equipped with the ubiquitous VW/Audi turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower in the Q3 40 and 228 horsepower in the Q3 45.

The Q3 isn’t the most powerful or agile SUV in its class (the crazy limited-production RS Q3 isn’t sold in the US), but it’s not the worst either. Input from the driver is instantly processed, and both engines are responsive, although the 45 accelerates faster.

While the Q3’s cabin isn’t as large or functional as the BMW X1’s, and the Mercedes-Benz GLA’s class seems sleeker, the Q3 delivers Audi’s signature balance of performance, ride comfort, and refined familial flair.

  • MSRP: From $37,000
  • Dimensions: 177″ L x 73″ W x 63″ H
  • Horsepower: 184 to 228 hp
  • MPG: Up to 22 city / 29 highway
  • Cargo volume: 23.7 ft³, 48 ft³ with seat area
  • Curb weight: 3,902 to 3,913 lbs

2024 Audi Q3 Review

The Audi Q3 2024 is the company’s smallest and most economical SUV, which sits below the iconic Q5. It comes with all-wheel drive as standard, as well as other high-tech amenities like adaptive cruise control and a computerized instrument panel.

While the small rear seats are not ideal for transporting a family, this small SUV has ample cargo space for its size. The Q3 also has superior build quality and a lower starting price than most competitors with all-wheel drive.

Audi’s entry-level SUV returns for the 2024 model year with some minor technological updates. Using Audi’s signature design language, the 2024 Audi Q3 still stands out among its stylish rivals like the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Alfa Romeo Tonale.

With the addition of adaptive cruise control and lane centering as standard features, the Q3 now offers a comprehensive suite of driving aids on all models.

Many competitors charge extra for these features. There are also front and rear parking sensors, emergency automatic braking, and blind spot warning.

It is equipped with a clear digital instrument panel and a large central touchscreen on the inside. A wireless charging pad and an intelligent 360-degree camera system are included with the Premium Plus trim.

Add the Technology package for all the tech perks, which includes a larger digital instrument panel, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless compatibility, Sonos music system, and navigation system.

  • Audi’s exterior is authentic.
  • Standard high-tech screens
  • The back seat is spacious and packed with the latest technology features.
  • High-quality materials are used to line the interior.
  • The cabin is quiet, and the ride is comfortable.

2024 Audi Q3

What’s New

The addition of Adaptive Cruise Assist—adaptive cruise control—as standard equipment in 2024 is the major news. Buyers who choose the Convenience package will notice that Homelink capability (a garage door opener that can turn on lights) is now integrated into the rear-view mirror, as well as wireless phone charging.

Arkona White replaces Ibis White on the exterior treatment palette, Progressive Red metallic replaces Tango Red metallic, and Turbo Blue is dropped.

  • Cruise control with adaptive settings
  • Audi’s HomeLink is now included in the convenience package, as are the paint colors Arkona White and Progressive Red. Ibis White, Tango Red, and Turbo Blue have been eliminated.

What We Believe

With the 2024 Q3, Audi provides a credible challenger in the oversaturated luxury subcompact SUV market. The cabin is roomy and high-tech, with a tight, stylish style. Rear-seat passengers also get plenty of legroom, USB connections, and air vents.

The 2019 model year’s adoption of standard adaptive cruise control should also help the Q3 keep up with its rivals.

We’re not wowed by the tiny SUV’s driving performance, despite its excellent packaging. Even the more powerful engine option could use a little more pep. Otherwise, the Q3’s bumpy ride detracts from its nimble handling and quick steering.

Longer periods of exposure to the interior of the Q3 make its reliance on harsh plastics difficult to overlook. With its geometric lines and unusual vent placements, the dashboard looks stylish, but too many of the surfaces feel like they belong in a Volkswagen rather than an Audi.

Fortunately, a pair of huge standard displays assist in diverting attention away from the inferior materials.

Although the 2024 Audi Q3 has several advantages, its determinants maintain it in the upper center of its segment rather than at the top. Perhaps a thorough midcycle redesign in the coming years will address some of the faults with this beautiful ute.

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2024 Audi Q3 Interior

The current, second-generation Q3 debuted for the 2019 model year, erasing almost all of our reservations about the prior model. It boasts a substantially improved driving posture and enhanced front-seat comfort, thanks in part to eight-way power adjustments and lumbar support for the driver.

It is larger, made of superior materials, and has updated technology and more intuitive controls. When combined with the standard panoramic sunroof, leather interior, and heated front seats, the Q3 earns its four-ring logo.

For an additional fee, buyers can get ambient interior lighting, a completely digital instrument cluster, and contrasting microsuedes on the dashboard and doors. No matter how luxurious you go, backseat passengers will feel cramped on prolonged excursions due to insufficient rear legroom.

Despite this, we were able to accommodate six carry-on baggage in the cargo space, as well as another 12 bags with the rear seats folding. Both are less than what we have in the X1 but are comparable to the Jaguar E-Pace.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Most Q3 versions come standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen MMI infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A larger 10.1-inch touchscreen with the same content is also available. Because of its large symbols and haptic feedback, we considered the interface to be appealing and mainly simple to use.

Its low position on the dashboard, on the other hand, can be distracting. SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker, 680-watt Sonos music system are among the top possibilities.

Technology

All 2024 Audi Q3 models include a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8.8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker audio system as standard.

With the Technology package, the gauge display is increased to 12.3 inches, and the touchscreen is upgraded to a 10.1-inch panel with built-in navigation. This trim also includes Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and premium Sonos speakers.

The Convenience package features a motion sensor alarm, keyless entry with a hands-free power tailgate, auto-dimming mirrors, LED ambient lighting, and driver seat memory settings.

2024 Audi Q3

2024 Audi Q3 Engine

The 2024 Q3 has a single turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque in the Q3 40 and 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet in the Q3 45. The standard Quattro all-wheel drive system is driven by an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.

Neither version of the Q3 is particularly rapid; when we tested the Q3 45 a few years ago, the best zero-sixty we could get was 7.3 seconds. Nonetheless, the transmission shifts smoothly and includes a Sport mode as well as manual operation.

The steering, while direct, lacks feel. The suspension is adjusted for comfort rather than performance, but a hardcore suspension would be completely inappropriate in this situation. The chassis and engine are well-matched for a pleasant, if occasionally erratic, driving experience.

Performance

The Q3 is more concerned with comfort than with thrills. The 45 TFSI powerplant in our test Q3 achieved 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is slightly slower than normal for a luxury subcompact SUV. When starting from a halt, the eight-speed automatic transmission can be a little slow to respond.

In terms of handling, the Q3 is more lively. It boasts quick steering and maintains control when going around fast corners. Overall, everyday driving is sharp and comfortable, but if driving pleasure is paramount, a BMW X1 is a superior option.

Comfort

The Q3 has a firm but not unduly stiff ride. Bumps can be felt throughout the cabin, but the Q3 handles them promptly and without excessive body motion. It’s also quite silent due to the lack of outside noise, whether from the tires or the wind.

The front chairs are sufficiently adjustable to allow you to find the ideal position for extended travels. The controls are well-labeled and easily accessible. The seat heaters take a few minutes to warm up and never get as hot as the rest of the seats in the class.

Storage

The Q3 makes the most of its limited cargo space. There’s a level load floor and little compartments on either side to hold small bags, as well as a security shade that can be removed to make more room if necessary.

A wireless charging pad and a little grip between the cupholders are innovative ways to store smartphones, but that’s about it for small-item storage.

The rear door openings are large enough for you to lean in and install rear-facing car seats. The car seat anchors are easily accessible, and three back anchors provide additional security.

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2024 Audi Q3 Electric

Audi does not currently offer an electric Q3, but the tiny Q4 E-Tron, which is available in both a normal SUV body style and the Q4 E-Tron Sportback, is the closest comparable. Each Q4 E-Tron is equipped with an 82.0-kWh battery pack that charges at 150 kW.

The wheels are driven by a single motor as standard, although a more powerful all-wheel-drive dual-motor option is available. Sportback models are only available with the more powerful AWD system.

Although the typical SUV design provides more interior space, the Q4 E-Tron Sportback has a greater range than its dual-motor brother.

2024 Audi Q3 MPG

The EPA expects the 2024 Audi Q3 40’s fuel economy to be 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. That puts it perfectly in line with the segment, trailing the Volvo XC40 by just one mpg in each statistic.

The Q3 45 with the hotter tune is rated at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, but we beat that estimate with a pleasing 31 mpg result in C/D’s 75-mph highway fuel-economy route. Visit the EPA’s website for additional information on the Q3’s fuel economy.

2024 Audi Q3 Trim

Audi offers the 2024 Q3 in 40 TFSI or 45 TFSI powerplant configurations, as well as Premium or Premium Plus trim levels.

The enhanced engine entices us more, and we’d opt for the Premium Plus to gain upgraded features like a 360-degree camera, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, LED ambient lighting, lane-keeping assist, and a wireless phone charging pad.

Power-folding, auto-dimming, electrically adjustable, and heated outside mirrors with memory settings are also included in this specification.

2024 Audi Q3

2024 Audi Q3 Models

The 2024 Audi Q3 is driven by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two power levels: the 40 TFSI (184 hp, 221 lb-ft torque) and the 45 TFSI (228 hp, 251 lb-ft torque).

Both come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. After deciding on a powertrain, you can select between the Premium and Premium Plus trim levels.

Continue reading for a description of the key features included with each trim, as well as the Q3’s available options.

Our Recommendation

The more powerful 45 TFSI engine is the way to go because it gives power similar to the Q3’s rivals and faster acceleration during critical periods like merging on the highway.

We prefer the Premium Plus trim for its additional features and access to the optional Technology package, which equips the Q3 with all remaining tech goodies.

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2024 Audi Q3 Price

This is a simple one. The Premium Plus 45 is our preferred selection, with a fuel economy penalty of only 1 mpg for the more powerful engine and a few extra goodies like an overhead view camera and hands-free tailgate.

We’d also choose the Black Optic package, which includes sport front seats with “S” embossing and contrast stitching, 19-inch matte titanium wheels, black roof rails, and high-gloss black exterior features.

  • Premium 40 $38,195
  • Premium 45 $40,595
  • Premium Plus 40 $40,995
  • Premium Plus 45 $43,395

Verdict

When compared to rival crossover SUVs, the Q3’s small size and fastback roofline dramatically reduce the available inside space. However, the Audi Q3’s excellent performance, fit and finish, and standard all-wheel drive make it easier to forgive the lack of space. We’ll be back shortly with more information on the 2025 Audi Q3, so be sure to bookmark the Audi Car USA website for the latest information on the Audi Q5 and other Audi future-related updates.

People also ask about Audi Q3 2024

Q: Is there going to be a new Audi Q3?

A: The next Audi Q3 does not yet have an official release date, but it is expected to arrive in early 2025. There’s no word on pricing yet, but expect it to be more expensive than the current car’s £33,750 starting price.

Q: Are Audi Q3 expensive to maintain?

A: After 5 years, the maintenance and repair costs for an Audi Q3 will be $3,076. Expenses include planned maintenance, typical wear and tear, and anticipated repairs. These estimates do not include any complimentary warranty work.

Q: How much is the Audi Q3 2023?

A: The base Premium trim of the 2023 Audi Q3 40 TFSI costs $36,400, while the Premium Plus trim costs $39,700. The sportier Q3 S Line 45 TFSI starts at $38,700 in the Premium trim and $42,000 in the Premium Plus trim. All Q3 models are subject to a $1,195 destination fee.