This is it, no more sketches with the 2012 Audi Q3 as the German automaker decided to fully unveil their second generation compact premium SUV ahead of its official debut at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show.
The 2012 Audi Q3 features the automaker’s classic design, with a coupe-like shape, a flat rear window in order to enhance the car’s sporty nature, restyled LED headlights and tail lamps and an overall sharper look when compared to the previous generation. The lightweight architecture enables the new Q3 to weight less then 1,500 Kg (3,307 lb), while the efficient design resulted in a drag coefficient of just 0.32.
In terms of motorisation there will be three 4-cylinder engines available on the 2012 Audi Q3 out of which one is a TDI and two are TFSIs. These engines combine direct fuel injection and turbocharging plus they will also use systems like energy recuperation and Start Stop.
These engine range from 140 HP (103 kW) to 211 HP (155 kW) with the basic version being the 140 HP front-wheel-drive which requires less than 5.2-litres of fuel per 100 Km (45.23 US mpg). A 170 HP front-wheel-drive petrol version Audi Q3 will also be offered as well as a 177 HP 2.0 TDI.
The TFSI models will be featuring the automaker’s all-wheel-drive quattro system, and as far as transmission options customers will be able to choose from either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed S tronic depending on the engine.
The 2012 Audi Q3 is a bit more spacious than the previous model and the luggage compartment offers 460 liters (1,365 litres with the rear seats folded).
The 2012 Audi Q3 price will start at 29,900 Euro in Germany (around 43,300 USD) with production taking place at the company’s plant in Martorell, near Barcelona, Spain. Availability on the European market will start in June.
2012 Audi Q3 Video :
