More power, greater efficiency and a subtle redesign are all present and correct for the 2015 Audi Q3, the premium German manufacturer’s smallest 4x4. Since the Q3 launched Mercedes has launched the GLA-Class, so Audi will be keen to redress the balance. With a range of diesel and petrol engines including the barmy 335bhp RS Q3, as well as the option of front- or four-wheel drive, there’s certainly something for everyone. Prices ranging from £25k to £31k also make the renewed Q3 a direct rival for the stylish Range Rover Evoque and BMW X1. Performance 5/5 A 1.4-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel both offer 148bhp, and reach 62mph from rest in around nine seconds, making them well-suited to town and motorway driving. We particularly enjoyed the hushed refinement of the petrol, which makes the diesel seem a little uncultured in comparison. A 181bhp version of the diesel is also available, offering swifter progress and reaching 62mph in as little as 7.9 seconds, quicker than an Evoque SD4 and GLA 220 CDI 4Matic. This engine has 7bhp more than before. Audi will only supply the 1.4-litre with front-wheel drive, while the 2.0-litre diesel can have option quattro four-wheel drive fitted if you plan on some light off-roading or expect poor driving conditions. A 2.0-litre petrol is also built, but we’d expect little demand in the UK. Every version is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, but Audi’s double-clutch S tronic system is also available. It’s a fun system to use, with sharp changes, particularly when using the paddle shifters. Ride and handling 4/5 The Audi Q3 is particularly car-like to drive for a 4x4, with direct steering and very little in the way of body roll. The trade-off is a firm ride around town, which jiggles over manhole covers and other surface imperfections. At higher speeds this sensation largely disappears, so the Q3 is a comfortable motorway companion. However, we’d recommend sticking to smaller wheels if comfort is important to you. Luckily, slightly more balloon-like tyres don’t spoil the Q3’s looks, thanks to its increased ground clearance. With similar underpinnings to the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Q3 quattro versions should be more than capable of tackling muddy tracks, slippery slopes and poor weather. Its main limitation off-road will be its ground clearance and road tyres. Interior and equipment 4/5 There’s nothing particularly fancy about the Q3’s interior, but the quality of its materials and intuitive layout make it feel relaxing and expensive. Audi mustn’t have found much to fault, because it has been largely untouched for the facelift. A clear 6.5-inch retractable screen sits on top of the dashboard and our only criticism is its dash-mounted controls, which would be more easily reached on the centre console. Cabin space for four adults is good, with particular praise going to the highly adjustable driver’s seat, allowing almost anyone to get comfortable behind the wheel. Boot space of 425 litres is on a par with the Evoque and X1, but slightly behind the generous 481 litres offered by the GLA. Fold the rear seats down and space increases to 1,325 litres. There is quite a high boot lip though, so you’ll get a workout loading heavier items. Costs 4/5 Audi has made efficiency gains across the range, with the entry-level diesel quattro now returning 56.5mpg (up from 49.6mpg). The latest models should also cost less to tax, with the 1.4-litre TFSI petrol emitting 128g/km (down from 137g/km) thanks in part to its clever cylinder deactivation technology. The 2.0-litre diesel with 148bhp is cleaner too, emitting between 119 and 134g/km. The Audi Q3 is a premium small 4x4, so it will cost more to buy than the Ford Kuga or Volkswagen Tiguan, but stacks up favourably against the X1, GLA and pricey Evoque. Trim levels are quite straightforward with SE, S line and S line plus getting climate control, a 6.5-inch display, Bluetooth and Xenon headlights as standard. S line brings LED headlamps, 18-inch wheels and sports seats. Go the whole hog choosing S line Plus and the highlights are leather seats, sat-nav, cruise control and parking sensors. Verdict 4/5 The Audi Q3 is a solid bet, with impressive engines, an upmarket interior and plenty of useful gadgets. If you are looking for 4x4 looks with a hatchback driving experience, look no further, it really does shrink around you the further you drive. We’re in no doubt its taller stance will also make it more accomplished off-road than the low-slung GLA. But, this Audi is almost too sensible for its own good. Its design certainly lacks the wow factor of the Evoque and its cabin isn’t quite as interesting as the Mercedes’. The Q3 is a good car then, but one you buy with your head rather than your heart.
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