Home > News & Blogs > 2019 Audi Q3 First Drive Review: A Refined Take on Entry-Level Luxury SUVs

2019 Audi Q3 First Drive Review: A Refined Take on Entry-Level Luxury SUVs

Audi Q3 Review: Redefining Subcompact Luxury with Performance & Tech | MotorVero

The 2019 Audi Q3: Elevating Subcompact Luxury with German Engineering

                               Audi Q3 review

Key Takeaways: The redesigned Audi Q3 combines the brand's signature luxury in a compact package, featuring standard Quattro AWD, a 228hp turbocharged engine, and class-leading technology like Virtual Cockpit. While not the sportiest in its segment, it excels as a refined daily driver with premium materials and exceptional highway manners.

2023 Jaguar I-PACE Image
2023 Jaguar I-PACE

$79999

electric

43 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

2019 Acura ILX FWD Image
2019 Acura ILX FWD

$21000

Gas

53000 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

2020 Lincoln Aviator Image
2020 Lincoln Aviator

$36811

Gas

81310 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)


Redefining Compact Luxury

Luxury in the subcompact SUV segment isn't about excess—it's about delivering premium experiences in intelligent packaging. The 2019 Audi Q3 masterfully executes this philosophy, bringing the quality and technology of Audi's larger models to a more accessible size. Positioned against formidable rivals like the Volvo XC40 and Lexus UX, the Q3 distinguishes itself through balanced performance and unmistakable Audi sophistication.

Powertrain & Performance

Every Q3 comes equipped with:

  • 2.0L TFSI turbocharged engine: 228 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
  • Quattro all-wheel drive: Standard across all trims
  • 8-speed Tiptronic transmission: Optimized for smooth shifts
  • --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Driving Dynamics: Confidence Over Sportiness

Acceleration & Transmission

The Q3's powertrain delivers adequate but not thrilling performance. While the turbo-four provides sufficient power for daily driving, enthusiasts might prefer the more spirited acceleration of the Volvo XC40 T5 or BMW X2. The true star is the exceptionally tuned 8-speed automatic—responsive to throttle inputs and seamless in operation.

Driving Modes & Efficiency

Audi's Drive Select system offers five customizable modes:

Comfort Softens responses for relaxed cruising
Dynamic Sharpens throttle and steering for enthusiastic driving
Off-Road Optimizes traction on loose surfaces

Fuel economy stands at an EPA-estimated 19/27/22 mpg (city/highway/combined). While this trails competitors like the Lexus UX (33 mpg combined), the Q3's ability to run on regular gasoline helps offset operating costs.

2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron Image
2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron

$39651

electric

14310 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD Image
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD

$19375

Gas

93184 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

2014 Cadillac ATS Image
2014 Cadillac ATS

$19499

Gas

72889 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)


Highway Refinement & Ride Quality

The Q3 shines as a long-distance cruiser with:

  • Exceptional stability at speed
  • Precise, light-effort steering
  • Minimal vibration through chassis

Our testing revealed noticeable wind noise above 65 mph—a common tradeoff in this segment. The available 19-inch wheels (standard on Premium Plus trim) deliver a mostly compliant ride, though sharp impacts can feel abrupt.

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Interior: Premium Experience in Compact Form

luxury subcompact SUV

Materials & Design

Audi's cabin craftsmanship elevates the Q3 beyond its size class. While some cost-saving measures appear (notably hard plastics on lower console areas), the overall presentation rivals the brand's larger Q5 and Q7 models.

Technology Integration

Standard features include:

  • 10.25" digital instrument cluster
  • 8.8" center touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control

The optional Navigation Package ($2,000) upgrades to:

Practical Luxury: Passenger & Cargo Space

Seating Comfort

Front seats offer excellent support for long drives, with available sport seats (S Line package) providing enhanced lateral support. The rear bench surprises with:

  • Adjustable backrest angle
  • 6.3 inches of fore/aft travel
  • Ample headroom (even with panoramic moonroof)

Cargo Flexibility

Q3 vs XC40

The Q3 provides 23.7 cubic feet behind rear seats, expanding to 48 cubic feet when folded. The standard power liftgate adds convenience for daily use.

--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Competitive Positioning

How the Q3 compares to key rivals:

Model Power MPG (Combined) Starting Price
Audi Q3 228 hp 22 $35,695
Volvo XC40 T5 248 hp 26 $36,895
Lexus UX 200 169 hp 33 $34,025

2020 Lincoln Aviator Image
2020 Lincoln Aviator

$40843

Gas

25714 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)

2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD Image
2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD

$24950

Gas

37670 mi

Fair Deal   Fair

0 (5)

MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hatchback FWD Image
MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hatchback FWD

$35860

20 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)


Final Verdict

The 2019 Audi Q3 represents a compelling choice for buyers seeking:

  • Authentic Audi luxury in a compact footprint
  • Confident all-weather capability (standard AWD)
  • Class-leading infotainment technology

While not the sportiest or most efficient option, the Q3 delivers where luxury buyers care most—refined driving manners, premium materials, and cutting-edge tech. For those prioritizing brand cachet and daily usability over outright performance, the Q3 stands as one of the segment's most complete packages.

proImg

motorverorachael

Last Updated On Apr, 18-2025

Share Now: