The big question surrounding the 2015 Audi Q3 crossover is how much will it cost? Audi has just announced official pricing starting at $32,500 for the base model (FWD) up to $38,500 for the Prestige quattro version. This pricing is excluding transportation costs ($925), tax, title, and any additional options you choose to purchase, so expect a nicely equipped version with taxes and all fees included to run right around $40-45k. More information and specs have been added to the Audi USA website which can be viewed here.
This pricing slots makes the base pricing slightly more than the BMW X1 at $30,900 but after adding options and fees it should be fairly competitive in price with the Bimmer. Buyers are also likely to look at the A3 Sportback (hatchback) which will be available in the US as a TDI version sometime in 2015 as a 2016 model (and eventually an etron version too, but no standard gas model planned). Deciding between the A3 TDI Sportback and the Q3 will be an interesting decision, allowing buyers to decide if they like a more car-like platform (A3 TDI hatch) or a more SUV like platform (the Q3), as well as standard or diesel petrol. The A3 TDI hatchback pricing has not been released yet, but I would expect it to be just slightly higher than the A3 TDI Sedan which comes in at $32,600 at the base (FWD).
Other noteworthy features and information that appeared on the Audi USA website today include available automated parking system, Side Assist, MMI with Google Earth, Panoramic sunroof, and Dynamic suspension with Comfort, Dynamic and Auto modes. It’s got all of the bells and whistles you’d expect from an Audi.
Engine and powertrain wise, it appears to only be available as a 6 speed auto mated to 2.0T four cylinder engine to begin with. It is estimated to get a 20/29 miles per gallon (MPG) or a combined 23 MPG for FWD and a marginally lower 20/28/23 MPG for quattro. The fuel economy numbers are actually slightly disappointing in my opinion, but hopefully Audi releases a diesel, hybrid or etron version for those who like the car but demand more respectable fuel economy – my V8 powered S4 gets similar MPG to these figures advertised for the Q3, for what it’s worth.
Overall this should be a great car for those wanting a “do anything” small SUV, but for those just looking to commute around town the A3 TDI Hatchback coming to the US in 2015 will likely get far better gas mileage at around the same price.
