Audi‘s most awaited premiere in Paris might have been the punchy SQ2, but the all-new, second-gen Q3, which makes its European debut, is just as interesting.
Ingolstadt’s answer to the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, Volvo XC40 and others has an entirely new design that makes it look more aggressive than the car it replaces.
Proof of that are the vertical grille bars at the front, which seem to come straight from the new Q8, the sporty front bumper, muscular profile, new lighting units on both ends with LED tech, and different alloy wheels available in different sizes and patterns.
The interior of the 2019 Q3 is dominated by the 8.8-inch infotainment system (a 10-inch display is optional) and the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit. Other features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, four USB ports, Connect portfolio and plenty of color combinations to choose from.
The car on display at the 2018 Paris Auto Show is in the 45 TFSI. This means it’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s good for 230 PS (226 hp / 169 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It’s mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and comes with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system.
The automaker will open the order books for the all-new Q3 in Europe next month. The premium compact crossover will be sold in the U.S. as well, though its launch date and with pricing have yet to be announced.