Audi's Dynamic Q3 becomes livelier than before

Text: www.topgear.com/india

By Agasti Kaulgi

Yes, we know there was a new version of the Q3 just a couple of months ago. It was called the 'Dynamic' Q3. And yes, there's an upgraded model already. And that's because this one that you see here was revealed at the Paris Motor Show in October, and Europe gets it right away. But Indians will get it only in the second half of next year.

This is not an all-new car. And, majority of the things stay the same, like the drivetrain and the chassis. But, while we say this, let us also tell you that the engine and gearbox, though the same, have been tweaked to make them more efficient and nature-friendly.

In Europe, the Q3 gets quite a few engine options — the 1.4 turbo-petrol, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel in two states of tune. India, just like it is with the current Q3, will only get the diesel motor. The one we have here is the 2.0 TDI that develops 181bhp and 380Nm of twist.


With the small changes made by the engineers in Ingolstadt, the engine makes a couple of horses more. The new Audi engines now have an intelligent cylinder deactivation system — it switches off a cylinder when there's no need for a lot of power, and thus saves a bit of fossil fuel.

The engine is mated to a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission that directs the power to all four wheels. This engine isn't the 'no turbo-lag' kind. It's quite sluggish at the lower end of the rev range. But this dual-clutch tranny does a good job of hiding this blemish.


The Q3 that we drove in Europe came with a suspension setup that was tuned for smooth, pothole-free roads. By that, we mean stiffer struts. But, by the time it comes to India, it'll be softened to better suit our battered roads.

In the handling department, the earlier Q3 wasn't as sharp as the GLA. This one isn't any different. But, the thing that works in the new one's favour is a heavier steering that isn't as vague as the one on the pre-facelift car.


On the outside, the biggest change is up front, with an altered grille, restyled headlamps and bumper. Xenon headlamps are now standard, whereas LED turn indicators and tail-lamps are an optional extra.

The changes are subtle inside, too, and the Q3 continues to have features such as auto headlamps and wipers, electric seats and the MMI infotainment system as standard.

The new Q3 will be available in 6-speed manual and 7-speed auto versions. We expect the prices to see just a nominal increase, starting at about Rs 32 lakh and going up to Rs 36 lakh (both prices ex-showroom).




Audi Dynamic Q3

Engine: 1968cc 4cyl turbo-diesel

Power: 181bhp

Torque: 380Nm

Gearbox: 7-speed automatic

0-100kph (claimed): 7.9 seconds

Kerb weight: 1625kg

Price: Rs 36 lakh (est. ex-showroom)

The verdict: The fresh design helps make the Q3 livelier than before