2019 Audi Q3 Gets Detailed UK Review, Is as Practical as It's Cool

The first Q3 arrived too early to take advantage of the MQB platform and is showing its age in the American lineup of models. Just looking at the official photos, it's easy to assume it's a sporty car with a focus on design, but actually, that's not what Audi tried to make.

Hidden behind the edgy modern interior is a family vehicle, and practicality is the main thing Mat Watson focuses on in his in-depth take on the new Q3. For example, the trunk is among the biggest in the class and comes with useful storage.

The rear bench has advanced in leaps and bounds over the predecessor, borrowing tricks from the VW Tiguan. For example, you can slide the seats forward and back, as well as adjust the backrests to recline. You couldn't do that in the old Q3.

Storage spaces are ample, and while Mat complains about not having covers over the central cupholders, the build quality is clearly above both the smaller Q2 and sister cars like from Skoda or VW.

So what about the way this drives? Well, the old one wasn't as good as the BMW Z1, or the GLA for that matter. But the reviewer believes this particular Q3 35 TFSI with the S line package is firm and sharper than its rivals. However, the automatic gearbox is not as good at responding, which might have something to do with too much weight and not enough torque, not the box.

The 35 TFSI comes with a 1.5 TFSI, which is just about adequate. However, it does start to sound rough when accelerating. But we get the impression that the new Q3 has a more luxurious suspension setup than the VW Tiguan for not a lot more money.