Acclaimed Audi Q3 Benefits From Frugal New Engine And Even Fuller Specification

The Audi Q3 is the latest beneficiary in the Vorsprung durch Technik brand's drive to cut engine capacities down to an even more efficient size without paring back performance. The compact SUV has adopted a new, more compact and even more sparing 1.4 litre TFSI petrol engine which joins the range alongside an attractive and comprehensive new S line Plus specification option. The new 1.4 TFSI slots in at the entry point to the Q3 line-up as an alternative to the 140PS 2.0-litre TDI model, and shares its exclusively front-wheel-driven configuration. Available in conjunction with SE and S line trim levels, it offers peak power of 150PS, delivered between 5,000 and 6,000rpm, and maximum torque of 250Nm from 1,750 to 3,000rpm. It can channel these through either a six-speed manual or seven-speed S-tronic twin-clutch transmission.

OneShift Editorial Team

31 Jan 2014

Paired with the slick-shifting manual transmission, the Q3 1.4 TFSI will reach 62mph from rest in 9.2 seconds (8.9 seconds for cars equipped with S tronic), and reach a top speed of 126mph. Combined fuel economy stands at 47.9mpg, and CO2 emissions match the efficiency-focused 140PS version of the 2.0 TDI engine elsewhere in the range at 137g/km (145g/km for S tronic models).

The new top-ranking specification boosts visual appeal by replacing the 18-inch S line wheel with a 19-inch ‘five segment spoke’ design, and by incorporating privacy glass extending from the B-pillar rearwards. It also includes a choice of seven metallic paint finishes - Ice silver, Samoa orange, Monsoon grey, Caribou brown, Platinum beige, Cobalt blue and Glacier white.

Inside, the standard S line cloth and leather combination upholstery is replaced by a perforated leather and Alcantara mix in S line Plus models, and they also benefit from the addition of cruise control, the Audi parking system plus and SD card-based satellite navigation via the 6.5-inch colour display.

More specifications include: Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, exclusive S line body styling, light and rain sensors, front sports seats with powered lumbar support, the Audi Music interface, Bluetooth interface and voice control system for many infotainment functions.

Credits: Oneshift News Team