Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 177ps quattro SE S tronic 5dr

Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 177ps quattro SE S tronic 5dr

What is it?

THE all-new Audi Q3 joins the existing Audi SUV off-roader line-up of Q5 and Q7. As its name suggests, the Q3 is the smallest of this triumvirate offering Audi quality, high driving position and off-road ability in a more compact bodystyle.

But don’t be deceived by the coupe like roofline – the Q3 is remarkably spacious inside with room for five adults. And if you’re considering the new Range Rover Evoque, or BMW X1, then you should certainly put the new Q3 on your business car shopping list.

However, breaking with Audi tradition this will be the first Q model to feature not only quattro four-wheel drive as you would expect with an SUV, but a front-wheel drive variant too. The latter is likely to appeal most to business users with its lower CO2 emissions of 137g/km and reduced benefit in kind company car tax of 20% for 2011/12.

While that 2.0 TDI model doesn’t arrive until December, we’ve had the opportunity to test drive the new 2.0 TDI quattro model in SE trim with S tronic auto transmission, priced at £27,650. Sportier S line trim can be specified for £31,210.

What’s hot?

• Another sector of the market covered…Can Audi do no wrong?
• New Q3 is easy to drive – just like a family hatchback
• Yet provides the additional functionality of an SUV in a premium package
• Its compact dimensions – 4.3m long, 1.8m wide – belie the interior space…
• …which is roomy with comfortable seats and good headroom
• Rear passengers well catered for too despite sloping roofline
• Fuel economy of 47.9mpg betters the X1 (45.6) and Evoque SD4 (43.5)
• While CO2 emissions of 156g/km give it a 24% BIK company car tax band
• And keeps the car under the critical 160g/km tax and leasing breaks
• SE spec includes 17 inch alloys, Bluetooth, 6.5 inch screen
• Low-cost £495 SD card upgrade adds full colour sat-nav…
• …significantly below the standard premium going rate of £1500
• Quality finish to all surfaces inside and out
• S tronic seven speed auto has freewheel option with Audi drive select
• This allows ‘coasting’ facility for additional fuel efficiency when you lift off
• Precise steering and strong brakes add to the feel-good confidence factor
• Low repair costs – insurance rates from 18e to 25e
• And lower running costs than its two key premium rivals

What’s not?

• Engine sounds uncomfortable at top end
• S tronic auto box sometimes get flummoxed in its choice of gear…
• …and low-speed throttle response can be jerky
• In fact S tronic works better in the petrol model than diesel
• Underlying agitation to the ride
• Boot space is limited…
• …If you’re thinking of swapping from an A4 Avant take note
• Start playing with the options list and the price soon mounts up

What you need to Know?

Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

Is it a better drive than the Range Rover Evoque? No it’s not. But your brand preference will dictate choice as much as the niceties of handling and ride.

While the Audi does not possess the look-at-me showroom glam of the Evoque the Q3 does manage to drive all over the Range Rover’s launch party. It depreciates less than both the Range Rover and the BMW X1 according to industry forecaster CAP and has lower running costs, too – by as much as 4p per mile. For business car managers and business owners that’s a saving worth having.

Business car drivers will want to wait until the two-wheel 2.0 TDI is available with its lower company car tax rates, but for business owners or SME directors this quattro is a fine and prestigious car. In fact, unless you really need the boot space for four people, it really calls into question the need for the bigger Q5 – or the A4 Avant. It’s that complete.

Little question, then, that with the new Q3 Audi has hit the spot. Again. You won’t be disappointed.

Watch a video of the new Audi Q3