Once limited to Europe, Audi will be introducing the latest version of its Q3 compact crossover at this year’s North American International Auto Show.
The Q3 joins the Q5 and the Q7 in Audi’s SUV family in North America. Volkswagen’s ubiquitous 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is standard, producing 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. A six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is the only gearbox, but Audi is offering you the choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. Audi’s Drive Select system is also optional, letting you adjust the Q3′s settings with Comfort, Auto and Dynamic modes.
Outside, the Audi Q3 understandably looks like a baby Q5, but with sharper lines and more coupe-like proportions. The Q3 rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels (19s are optional), but if you’re looking for Audi’s laser-beam headlights, you’re out of luck: Bi-xenon HID headlights with LED daytime running lights are standard equipment. LED tail lights are also standard, and Audi is offering you an optional power liftgate.
Inside, the Q3 keeps the lighting theme going with standard LED cabin lighting. Audi even says if you tick the box for the optional Bose sound system, the rings around the speakers up front illuminate. Leather seating, 12-way power-adjustable front seats and a panoramic sunroof are all standard fare on the Q3.
We’ll bring you more on the 2015 Audi Q3 live from the Detroit auto show next week.
