Audi‘s entry-level Q model for North America, the Q3, is reportedly about to become cheaper to purchase by $2,000 thanks to the introduction of the 40 TFSI variant, coming in at US$ 34,000. According to Quattrodaily, the Q3 40 TFSI will offer buyers most of the features of the 45 TFSI, but with a “lesser engine”, as its 2.0-liter turbo-4 is rated at 184 HP and 320 Nm of torque, as opposed to the 45 TFSI’s 228 HP and 350 Nm.
However, you still get the same
seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive as standard.
Other standard features include Audi’s Touch Response MMI system, digital gauge
cluster, eight-way power front seats, lane departure warning, high-beam assist and
the three-zone climate control. The Q3 40 TFSI also gets its own unique set of
wheels.
What’s interesting though is the fact that
with a starting MSRP of US$ 34,000, the 2021 Audi Q3 becomes just US$ 2,000 more
expensive than the A3 Sedan, so young families looking for a bit more room
inside and a more practical package overall can easily move away from the
4-door model and opt for the crossover. As for performance, despite putting
down less than 200 horsepower, the Q3 40 TFSI can still manage a respectable 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.4 seconds. Top speed meanwhile is rated
at 220 km/h.
On the exact opposite side of the spectrum
is Audi’s brand new RS Q3 variant with 395 HP and 480 Nm of torque – it can hit 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. Unfortunately, it will not be
sold in the United States.
