Design, News, SUV

Audi facelifts Q3 compact SUV

Revamp includes new exterior detailing to create more differentiation between the various Q3 trim levels while the S line also gets a sporty new 'competition' special edition.

In sport trim line, the Q3 SUV gets a new front end. The outer air inlets are larger; the blade beneath the centre inlet is finished in the body colour and the Singleframe grille in stone grey.

The new S line exterior package sports a new, ‘honed look’ says the German brand. Diamond-pattern inserts fill the air inlets; a new strut spans the full width of the front skirt, dividing it into two segments, while contrasting colour in the radiator grille and air inlets are finished in high-gloss black.

A sporty new special edition Audi Q3 S line competition features a front end which draws on the look of the new S line exterior package with high-gloss black paint for the air inlets and the Singleframe grille. The colour black carries over to the flanks with the wheel arches, door trim strips, roof rails, exterior mirror housings and the window slot trim. At the rear, the roof edge spoiler and the lower section of the bumper are finished in glossy black. S line badges adorn the wings. On the inside, sport seats with power lumber supports are covered in a mix of black leather and fabric with the S line logo embossed in the centre sections. A leather/Alcantara combination and Fine Nappa leather are optionally available.

The inlays in the new sport model are finished in black piano finish; the door sill trims bear S line logos. In combination with the S tronic, the pedals and foot rest are made of stainless steel, while models with a manual gearbox feature an aluminium/leather gear lever knob. A flat-bottomed, multifunction sport leather steering wheel in 3-spoke design also features the S line logo and contrasting stitching. Many controls are finished in aluminium look.

Available with any engine in the Q3 lineup, the S line sport suspension, Audi drive select dynamic handing system and the driver information system are all standard in the Audi Q3 S line competition, as are new 19-inch wheels in a gloss-black 10-Y-spoke design from Audi Sport.

The updated Audi Q3 launches in Germany priced from 30,100 euros before landing in additional European markets this Autumn. UK prices have yet to be announced.