There’s a new version of Audi’s compact SUV in South Africa and we have all the details regarding the 2015 Audi Q3.

The baby SUV has sold reasonably well in South Africa after being launched back in 2012. With around 5 000 units sold on our shores, it’s regarded as a best seller in the premium compact SUV market. Now there’s a refreshed version which offers better performance, a revised design and more equipment.

What’s New for 2015 Audi Q3?

The big news is that there’s a new 1.4-litre turbo engine with 110 kW and 250 Nm for the 2015 Audi Q3. There’s a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed S tronic transmission, and both models are front-wheel drive. In terms of design, there’s a more aggressive3D-design front grille, revised bumpers and headlights, whilst the rear features a new bumper and tail modernised light design.

For the first time full LED headlights are offered as an option for the 2015 Audi Q3. These are offered in conjunction withthe dynamic turnindicators whichilluminate sequentially within two-tenths of a second from the inside out in the direction the driver intends to turn.

In terms of dimensions, the 2015 Audi Q3 is pretty much the same size as the outgoing model, both inside and out. There’s adequate space for all five passengers, with the cargo compartment offering up 460L of space. Fold the split rear seats down and you’ll have access to 1 365L. Roof rails as well as an all-new extendable luggage compartment are standard.

The engines have been refined to offer increased outputs, yet reduced fuel consumption. CO2 emissions are down by as much as 17%. As mentioned earlier, the 1.4T offers 110 kW and 250 Nm, while the 2.0T produces 132 kW and 320 Nm. This version of the 2015 Audi Q3 also offers quattro all-wheel drive and an S tronic gearbox.

For the diesel fans, there’s a 2.0-litre TDI which delivers 135 kW and 380 Nm. It will only arrivein July 2015 but alsocomes with quattro and S tronic. 2016 will see a 2.0-litre TDI front-wheel drive Q3 with S tronic introduced to SA.

Also new for the 2015 Audi Q3 is a fine-tuned chassis with a focus on agility and safety, without compromising on comfort. In terms of safety, there are some additions. Secondary collision brake assist is standard and a host of other systems available as options. Audi side assist, for example, displays a yellow LED indicator thatilluminates in the housing of the outside mirror if another vehicle is in the blind spot or is approaching rapidly from the rear. Audi active lane assist works with video cameras that detect the lane markings which will then gently intervene by nudging the car back into its lane via the steering.

For the performance fans, the RS version of the 2015 Audi Q3 is confirmed. The 2,5-litre five-cylinder engine is retained, but now boasts more power. With 250 kW and 450 Nm on tap, the Audi RS Q3 promises 100kph in just 4.8 seconds and rampages its way to an electronically limited top speed of 250kph. If you’re a fan of the typical five pot noise, there’s now an RS exhaust system which allows you to add more volume.

Power reaches the quattro drivetrain through a seven-speed S tronic transmission. There’s a newhydraulic multi-plate clutch and the entire systemhas also been refined for faster gear changes. The lower gear ratios are closely spaced for sporty response while the seventh gear is to save fuel. The RS version of the 2015 Audi Q3 will arrive in August 2015.

Standard equipment for 2015 Audi Q3

Audi Q3 1.4T FSI manual and S tronic:

Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and halogen rear lights3-spoke multi-function leather covered sports steering wheelBluetooth connectivity with audio streamingVoice controlConcert radio with pop-up LCD colour screenAudi music interfaceDriver information system with efficiency programmeNew-design 16-inch alloy wheelsCruise controlStandard seats in clothFrontcentre armrestPassive speakersManualair-conditioningFront passenger airbag deactivationAutomatic interior dimming mirror

Audi Q3 2.0T FSI 132 kW S tronic quattro and 2.0 TDI 135 kW quattro S tronic:

Xenon plusheadlights with LED daytime running lights and halogen rear lights3-spokemulti-function leather covered sports steering wheelBluetoothconnectivity with audio streamingVoice controlConcert radio with pop-up LCD colour screenAudi musicinterfaceDriverinformation system in colour with efficiency programmeNew-design17-inch alloy wheelsCruisecontrolLED interior lighting packageStandardseats in clothFront centre armrestAudi soundsystemAutomatic air-conditioningFrontpassenger airbag deactivationAutomaticinterior dimming mirror

2015 Audi Q3 Price in South Africa

The Audi Q3 will be priced as per below:

Audi Q31.4T FSI 110 kW manual: R 402 500Audi Q31.4T FSI 110 kW S tronic: R 419 500Audi Q32.0T FSI 132 kW quattro S tronic: R 499 000Audi Q32.0 TDI 135 kW quattro S tronic: R 515 000Audi RSQ3 2.5T FSI 250 kW quattro S tronic: R 769 500* (August 2015)

* Indicative pricing

All prices are inclusive of VAT and the standard Audi Freeway Plan (5 year/100 000km).