After years of being absent from the Indian market, Audi's popular Q3 is now available in two within six months. The standard Q3 SUV was launched last year, and then there's this new Sportback variant, which aims to bring the coupe SUV trend from the higher segments to a wider range of buyers. In that sense, it's a unique offering in this segment that has no direct competitors in India, the closest being the Volvo C40 Recharge EV, which will be launched later this year. The big question is whether this is an enticing offering at this price point
2023 Audi Q3 Sportback: exterior design
The enormous appeal here is visual differentiation, and to that end, Audi has saved its sporty S-Line styling package exclusively for the Q3 Sportback. In return, there are much more aggressive front and rear bumpers with large decorative elements in brushed silver, a hexagonal mesh pattern with more brushed silver elements instead of the vertical chrome slats in the standard SUV, and a welcome five-twin-spoke design for the 18-inch alloy wheels. The eye-catching Turbo Blue color is also exclusive to this version.
The S-Line package, which is exclusive to the Q3 Sportback, adds sportier bumpers and a grille.
And then, of course, there's the sloping roof itself, although the design may not be quite as graceful as on larger coupe SUVs like the Q8 or e-tron Sportback. Perhaps it's the overall proportions or the chunky taillights and bumpers, but it's probably because it's much harder to reconcile design and practicality in a smaller package, as we'll find out later. In any case, it'll draw attention and give the Q3 Sportback a look that no other SUV on the market currently has
2023 Audi Q3 Sportback: interior and equipment
The front half of the interior is identical to the Q3 SUV and that means a sleek and modern design with some interesting shapes and finishes, wrapped in quality materials at every touch point. The plan could perhaps have been a bit more eye-catching, but that's a matter of preference, and with the option of brown or beige upholstery, you get a degree of individuality.
The front of the interior is just as high quality and elegantly designed as the Q3's.
Features are also very good, with power-adjustable front seats, a full infotainment system and digital displays, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate with gesture control, wireless charging, and a 10-speaker sound system. At this price, however, a memory function for the driver's seat would have been a welcome addition.
As for the elephant in the room: yes, the back seat isn't as roomy as a regular SUV. You have to duck a bit to get in, and once you're in, headroom becomes tight for taller passengers. Other than that, though, it's a pretty comfortable place to be, with good legroom, plenty of thigh support, and comfortable seats. As in the standard car, the bench seat is designed for two passengers, so the third passenger can't sit quite as comfortably, but unlike the SUV, there's only a single sunroof and no panoramic roof.
Surprisingly, Audi quotes the same 530-liter boot space for the Sportback as it does for the regular Q3, and while the usable storage space isn't quite as large, it's still quite a bit. And that's even though a space-saving spare wheel is stowed under the floor.
2023 Audi Q3 Sportback: engine, mileage, and driving impressions
As with any new Audi, there's no diesel engine, but that's not much of an issue with the Sportback, as practicality wasn't the primary consideration when choosing this version. Besides, the 40 TFSI is a great gasoline engine! It produces a solid 190 hp and 320 Nm, distributed with incredible precision via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and the standard AWD. It's not the last word in handling, but that's okay; it's docile, predictable, and neutral to drive, with the underrated safety net of AWD, which will suit most owners just fine.
The 2.0-liter, 190-horsepower gasoline engine is also standard in the Q3.
If you want, it can also be smooth and refined. Just move the Drive Select switch until you reach Comfort or Efficiency modes. Speaking of which, it even managed to get between 10 and 12 kpl when we were driving light. That's great considering the power this 2.0 TFSI engine offers. The steering is light and smooth in this mode, which is ideal for city driving.
The balance of ride and handling is geared more toward comfort than sportiness.
The suspension is rather soft, but that's also perfectly fine. The car remains very quiet even when cornering quickly, so it's fun to drive, but otherwise, it's extremely comfortable, and that's of far greater value in India.
2023 Audi Q3 Sportback: Expected price and verdict
The Audi Q3 Sportback price of Rs 51
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