The Audi Q3 has always felt like a bit of a rush job
but thankfully a redesigned model is expected to be introduced in mid-2018.
Currently undergoing testing, the crossover promises to be a major improvement
over its predecessor as it will ride on the MQB platform. While the
architecture isn't exactly new, it's significantly fresher than the current
model's PQ35 platform which dates back to 2003.
Thanks to the new architecture, the 2019 Audi Q3 is
expected to be up to 50 kg lighter than the outgoing model despite
the fact that it will reportedly grow in size. The MQB platform also offers
more rigidity than the PQ35 architecture and this should help to improve
comfort and drivability.
The Q3's interior is expected to come equipped with
an Audi Virtual Cockpit as well as a 9.2-inch touchscreen display. The
crossover's extended wheelbase, which could grow by 50 mm, should
also create a more accommodating rear passenger compartment as well as a more
spacious boot.
Engine options remain unconfirmed but Autocar is
reporting the model will be offered with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder that has
outputs of 128 hp and 148 hp. There should also be a
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with around 248 hp. Despite being
drawn into the dieselgate scandal, Audi is expected to offer a 2.0-liter
four-cylinder diesel engine with outputs of 148 hp, 187 hp,
and 237 hp.
Drivers who want efficiency without the diesel
engine can opt for a plug-in hybrid variant which is rumored to combine a
turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a small
battery pack. The system will reportedly have a combined output in excess of
200 hp and an electric-only range of up to 50 km.
Speaking of eco-friendly powertrains, there could be
an electric Q3 e-tron. Designed with the Chinese market in mind, the model will
reportedly be front-wheel drive and have a 35.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
that allows the vehicle to travel up to 299 km on a single charge.
Lastly, we can expect a couple of high-performance
models with a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. The engine is
expected to produce approximately 335 hp in the S Q3 and 395 hp in the RS Q3.
