You may want to do some homework before walking into an Audi showroom. Otherwise, the choices could be mind-boggling. The German luxury manufacturer now offers a complete lineup of sedans, wagons, coupes, convertibles, and SUVs. They include letters and numbers; you’ll need to know them to determine your best preference.
- Audi vehicles are labeled with an A for sedan, S for sport, RS Sportier, Q for SUV, TT and R8 coupe and convertible roadsters, and e-Tron for electric. The numbers range from 3 through 8 in the U.S., with the higher numbers being the larger size.
I recently experienced the Audi Q3, an affordable subcompact luxury SUV with Audi features, style, and performance. Please make no mistake; it’s an Audi at a reasonable price. The Q3 looks like a smaller version of the larger and stylist Q8.
Like other Audi vehicles, the Q3 offers the Quattro all-wheel-drive system (AWD), which provides one of the best rides in the Crossover class. It maneuvers perfectly in most situations, including off-road and highway driving.
Models/Price: The 2023 Audi Q3 offers four different levels and prices: Premium 40 ($37,995), Premium 45 ($40,395), Premium Plus 40 $41,295), and Premium Plus 45 ($43,695 MSRP).
Power: The Q3 is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 184 horsepower in the Base 40 model and 228 horses from the 45 in the Premium and Premium Plus models. All Q3s come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the Audi Quattro AWD.
Power is also designated by the world’s first direct injection engine – TFSI (Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection), which produces 222 lb-ft of torque in the 40 model and 258 lb-ft of torque in the 45 TFSI.
All Q3 interiors are well-designed with premium quality materials. The S-Line model is distinguished by matte inlays, natural wood, a turbocharged engine tuned for more power output, metal trim, perforated leather seats, sports tires, and a race-inspired steering wheel.
Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the 2022 Audi Q3 40 TFSI at 23 city/30 highway mpg and the Q3 45 at 21 city/28 highway mpg.
Visit www.decisivemedia.net for a complimentary subscription to my blog to get updated car-buying tips and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network