2022 Audi Q3 45 S Line

A look at the surprisingly likeable Audi Q3

By Isaac Bouchard

The Audi Q3 is a surprising likeable vehicle; a pleasing blend of good looks, sprightly performance, decent fuel economy and well-thought through equipment. I say surprising since I had expected to get very little seat time in it, as it shared garage space with one of the most highly-anticipated (and expensive) new electric cars now available. However, that machine threw a conniption fit and had to be towed away, leaving the Audi as my ride. The Q3’s tidy proportions, set-off by proportionally big and bold wheels, immediately made me feel better about the coming week behind its wheel. Likewise its angular, solidly-constructed cabin, whose materials felt of higher quality than they initially looked, and whose glossy touchscreens were easy to navigate and configure. This S Line’s sports seats were supportive, holding off fatigue on long drives and having big enough side bolsters to hold one tight during spirited cornering.

The Q3 is biased towards ride quality over ultimate handling, which is an appropriate balance for use here in the States; yes, understeer builds up in fast, high-speed corners sooner than anticipated, but the Audi has a very smooth ride, both in terms of absorbing sharp bumps (known as secondary ride) and over long, “low-frequency” humps and pavement slabs, which is what defines primary ride. This made area roads feel better than they really are, all despite the 20-inch wheels. Steering weight is light, and the helm is direct and accurate.

The Q3 is available with one engine, a 2-liter turbo, in two states of tune: 184 horses in the base 40 model or 228hp in the Q3 45, as tested. The 45 version feels quicker than its 0-60 time suggests, especially when left in Sport mode. The 8-speed transmission’s programing is excellent, and highway fuel eco tops 30mpg. This powertrain is very smooth and refined; wind and road noise are also mitigated well, meaning the Q3 feels appropriately upmarket. Cargo room (seats folded or not) was excellent; back seat room is on the tighter side. For those who don’t routinely carry adult rear seat passengers, this Audi is an excellent solution, and definitely feels a cut above most mainstream crossovers. Its price point pitches it head-on against the BMW X1, which will be all-new for 2023, the Mercedes GLA/GLB twins, which don’t feel as expensive nor capable, and numerous Asian and American near-luxury competitors. The Q3 has a combination of virtues that insure it at or near that top of this incredibly competitive class.

EPA Ratings: 21/28/24mpg
0-60mph: 7.1sec
Price as tested: $48,740
4 Stars

Here is what Audi has to say.

Automotive Editor Isaac Bouchard owns Denver-based Bespoke Autos ([email protected]; 303-475-1462). Read more of his automotive writing, reviews and recommendations on coloradoavidgolfer.com and bespokeautos.com.

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