Q3 Sportback high style

STORY

The Audi Q3 is a compact premium SUV that debuted in 2011 to sit below the Q5 in Audi's crossover line-up. The first generation (8U), built in Spain on the Volkswagen PQ35 platform, was offered with four-cylinder TFSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, front-wheel drive or quattro, and was facelifted in 2014. A high-performance RS Q3, powered by Audi's 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder, arrived in 2013 and gained more power (up to 367 PS in RS Q3 performance form) after the facelift. In 2018 the second generation (F3) switched to the larger MQB platform, adding digital cockpit technology and, for the first time, a coupe-roofed Q3 Sportback body. The current RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback retain the charismatic five-cylinder engine with 400 PS. Throughout its life the Q3 has competed with the BMW X1/X2, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40 in the premium compact-SUV class.