Audi Q3 2017 Review

The compact luxury SUV market has been gaining continuous momentum in recent years. Many consumers want the off-road capability of an SUV while also seeking brand quality and advanced features. The 2017 Audi Q3 public is a model that aims to meet such demands. As a mid-cycle facelift version of the Audi Q3 series, it retains the premium German craftsmanship while upgrading its exterior details and technology features. This time, we got our hands on the top-trim test drive model, with the core objective to evaluate its overall performance in daily commuting and family travel scenarios, and see whether it can hold its ground in the highly competitive compact luxury SUV market.

In terms of appearance, the overall design of the 2017 Q3 public leans towards being refined and sporty. The front features Audi’s signature hexagonal grille, with horizontal chrome accents inside and sharp LED headlamps on both sides, giving it high recognition. The side profile of the car showcases smooth lines, and the waistline running from the front to the rear adds depth. The 18-inch alloy wheels are dynamic in design, catering to young consumers' aesthetics. At the rear, the LED taillights feature a smoked finish, giving them a sharp effect when illuminated, while the silver skid plate on the rear bumper enhances the SUV’s ruggedness. Overall, the exterior upgrades make it look younger than its predecessor while maintaining Audi’s characteristic elegance.

Inside, the interior design is minimalist yet tech-savvy. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, paired with silver trim and piano black panels, offering a refined tactile feel. The central control screen measures 7 inches, supports touch operation, and is equipped with Audi MMI system. It comes with functions like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration, providing smooth operation. The seats are wrapped in genuine leather, with the front seats supporting electric adjustment and lumbar support, ensuring good comfort. As for features, the top-trim model is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, automatic air conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera, making daily use quite convenient.

In terms of dimensions, the 2017 Q3 public measures 4385mm in length, 1831mm in width, and 1608mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2603mm. The front row space is spacious, providing a headroom of about one fist and sufficient legroom for passengers with a height of 180cm. The rear space is moderate, with the same height passenger having about four fingers of headroom and two fists of legroom, which is adequate for daily family trips. Regarding storage, the trunk has a default capacity of 460L, which can expand to 1365L with the rear seats folded down, accommodating large suitcases or strollers. Inside the cabin, multiple storage options are designed, including a center armrest box, door panel compartments, and cup holders, providing strong practicality.

For power, the 2017 Q3 public is equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum output of 110kW (150PS) and a peak torque of 250N·m, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. During actual driving, the power response is quite agile during the starting phase, and the throttle is tuned to be sensitive, making city commuting brisk. Acceleration in the mid-to-high speed range is moderate, and highway overtaking requires stepping harder on the throttle. The gearbox shifts swiftly but occasionally shows slight jerks. The driving modes include Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic modes. In Dynamic mode, the throttle response becomes more sensitive, catering to those who enjoy driving dynamics.

In terms of handling performance, the steering wheel is precise with minimal play and good accuracy. The suspension system features front MacPherson strut independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned towards comfort, capable of filtering out most road bumps, and offering a smooth driving experience. During cornering, body roll is kept within a reasonable range, with good stability. The braking system performs linearly, with moderate pedal force, and braking distance is in line with the standard for this class of vehicles.

Regarding fuel consumption, we drove approximately 100km each on city roads and highways, with an average fuel consumption of about 7.2L/100km, demonstrating good fuel efficiency. As for noise control, wind and tire noise become slightly noticeable at high speeds but remain within an acceptable range and do not affect normal conversation among passengers inside the car.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2017 Audi Q3 public include the premium feel of a German luxury brand, decent configuration levels, and practical space performance. Compared to competitors such as the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA in the same class, its price is more competitive, and the configurations are relatively abundant, making it suitable for consumers who value cost-effectiveness and brand influence. The comprehensive performance of this car is well-balanced, suitable for urban commuting, and can also meet the needs of daily family travel. The target audience includes young families and urban professionals seeking a refined lifestyle.

In summary, the 2017 Audi Q3 public is a well-rounded compact luxury SUV. It shows no obvious shortcomings in terms of appearance, interior, space, or performance, making it an ideal choice for consumers looking for a luxury brand on a budget. If you’re in search of an SUV that combines brand prestige, configurations, and practicality, this vehicle is worth considering.