Audi’s smallest crossover competes in the segment of subcompact luxury SUVs, where the competition is pretty tough. Considering that the current generation has been around since 2018, many believe that it’s time for a mid-cycle update. Allegedly, the 2023 Audi Q3 will be the one to come with updates. The officials are still quiet on this matter but if these rumors turn out to be true, we presume that the focus of this refresh will be on aesthetics, though updates in other aspects are possible too.
Whether we see these updates or not, the overall layout will remain the same. Therefore, you may count on the same pros and cons of this small crossover. What we really like about it is the overall refinement, as well as composed handling. Furthermore, we like the elegant cabin design, as well as a full load of tech features. On the other hand, the biggest complaint goes to the cargo area, while the powertrain isn’t the most impressive in the class.
2023 Audi Q3 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Audi Q3 could receive a mid-cycle update. If this happens, we presume that visual updates will be the focus of this refresh. We would probably see a couple of styling revisions but keep in mind that Audi has always been pretty conservative when it comes to mid-cycle updates. Therefore, the styling updates would be subtle, mostly in terms of the front fascia and a few more areas on the vehicle.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect of the car won’t change for sure. We will see the same overall layout, which is based on the MQB platform, which is rather untypical, considering that most Audi models ride on the MLB platform. In other words, this crossover features a transversally mounted engine and FWD-biased all-wheel-drive system. Despite that the company advertises it as a Quattro, this is rather a Haldex-based system, similar to the one that’s used for the Golf R model.
Interior
A few updates could happen on the inside but they won’t be significant for sure. Simply, the current model features some of the nicest cabins in the class. Of course, the dashboard is highlighted by digital screens and other tech goodies, which fit Audi’s conservative design philosophy. More importantly, the build quality is rock-solid, while most areas are covered with high-quality materials.
The rest of the cabin looks nice as well. However, there isn’t much space for passengers. Even though this is a subcompact crossover, we would expect to see a little bit more passenger room in the second row. On the other hand, the front seats are massive, supportive and generous with space.
The cargo area offers around 23.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which is good for the class. However, the overall volume goes around 48 cubic feet, which is really low, even for this segment.
Features
Mid-cycle updates usually bring more standard and available equipment, so we would expect the same from the 2023 Audi Q3. However, keep in mind that the current model already stands pretty well in this aspect, so we shouldn’t expect miracles. The current model already comes standard with goodies like tri-zone climate control, an 8.8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, four USB ports, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, HD Radio, and a 10-speaker stereo. Additionally, you can get upgrades like a 10.1-inch touch screen, handwriting recognition, gesture controls, wireless device charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit and many more.
The same thing goes for safety features. So, all models should come standard with goodies like a rearview camera, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams etc.
2023 Audi Q3 Engines
The powertrain lineup will certainly remain unchanged. Therefore, you may count on a familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four, which comes in two output variants. Base models use the same version as VW Tiguan, with a max output of 184 horsepower. On the other hand, the upgraded version puts out around 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both engines offer decent driving dynamics, though we have to say that rival models feature peppier and more refined powertrains.
The engine comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which does a pretty fine job too. When it comes to fuel economy, the base version returns around 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, which is OK for this segment.
2023 Audi Q3 Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Audi Q3 will hit the market sometime in the second half of the year, with a starting price of around 37.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Volvo XC40 etc.