Check out the new Audi Q3 Sportback

KUALA LUMPUR: Audi has introduced a coupe-style SUV that would join the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe and BMW X4. Called the Q3 Sportback, it carries forward the brand’s confusing naming strategy, as unlike the Q8 it doesn’t get a dedicated moniker like the one seen on the Q4.

The car adopts the Sportback nameplate that refers to the sloping rear windscreen and a lower roofline. In addition, the Q3 also gets diffuser-like strakes, new rear bumper, and large air vents. Everything else is regular with the car getting the same striking front, L-shaped headlights, octagonal single-frame grille, L-shaped tail light, chiselled quattro blisters over all the wheel arches, and contrasting body cladding.

As per the automaker, the car offers a ‘large and highly variable’ interior, all this despite chopping off three centimeters from its roof. The rear seats come with a slide and recline function and can be folded in the ratio 40:40:20. Also, with the back seats folded the boot space expands from 530 to 1400 litres. There’s also an optional hands-free powered tailgate and a two-step boot floor.

On the inside you get Alcantara wrapped armrest and dashboard, a 10-inch centre touchscreen display linked with MMI infotainment system, liner design with metallic trims, and a 10.25-inch instrument console. On offer is a large optional feature list that includes a Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System, compatibility with Amazon’s Alexa personal assistant, Qi wireless smartphone charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity, and Google Earth-based navigation.

Powering the Audi Q3 is a range of 2.0-litre turbocharged mills. The 2.0-litre 45 TFSI, quattro petrol unit, makes 230 hp, while the 2.0-litre 35 TDI diesel makes 150 hp. Both the options are paired to an S Tronic Quattro dual-clutch transmission system.

On the safety front, the Audi Q3 benefits from four standard driver assistance systems. It includes lane change warning, pre sense front, lane departure warning, and pre sense basic. In addition, the driver can also specify adaptive cruise assist with steering assist, park assist, a 360-degree camera system, and rear cross-traffic assist.