Audi tried to get away with a few small lacks inside the cockpit. But, cheap materials used in some areas are nothing compared to the fancy styling and quality build. The 2022 Audi Q3 is going to keep all the good things fans loved on the subcompact crossover. The luxury package is not as impressive as it is on larger siblings. But, designers don’t have so much space to show off. Under the hood is a powerful unit for such a small vehicle. On the other hand, drivers will feel the turbo lag. Still, the overall ride impression is very sporty.
Changes in the upcoming model will be minor. The company updated the lineup for the 2021 season. Fans are already getting used to a life without the Prestige package. Now, the Q3 is going to offer two additional upgrades instead of one. So, it leaves more choices and options.
Under the hood is a small, but mighty powertrain. A 2.0-liter unit will provide extra power compared to the non-premium crossovers, but still not too much for newbies and inexperienced drivers. If this is your first ride, Quattro AWD is there to impress.
2022 Audi Q3 Specs, Hybrid
A 2.0-liter turbo unit is pretty powerful. But, it is the only choice, and people who don’t like turbocharged powertrains might look elsewhere. But, it is not easy to find a small luxury crossover with a naturally-aspirated engine. So, these buyers would have to turn to the non-premium segment and downgraded options. After putting these two on weight, a 2.0-liter turbo-four seems to be a logical choice. Plus, you will keep all the advantages of Audi’s packages.
This small SUV will offer you an all-wheel drive, a famous Quattro system, as a standard setup. An eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox sends power to all four corners of the vehicle. You can still get the impression of old-school driving by switching to the manual mode. Although only 177 inches long and 3,700 pounds heavy, the 2022 Audi Q3 is not going to bring impressive gas mileage numbers. On the highway, that is acceptable 27 mpg, while in the city driving you can’t do better than 20 miles per gallon.
In the foreseeable future, the company might fix this with the 2022 Audi Q3 Hybrid. The first move is going to be the Q4 E-Tron all-electric vehicle. After that, the company is going to start similar processes in the rest of the lineup. We believe that Q3 might be either a hybrid or a fully-electric vehicle.
No More Prestige Packages, Replacements are Ready
Premium trim level is now the base for all the configurations you can make from the 2022 Audi Q3. As said, an all-wheel drive is standard for all the trims. The level of luxury, German carmakers are offering, is very hard to match. The Q3 is a good example. Where you can find panoramic moonroof and leather seats as standard options? Add heated front buckets and connectivity with the leading smartphone services. A subcompact crossover is wearing 18-inch wheels.
The S Line package will add wireless charging for smart devices. Keyless start is also added, as well as larger wheels set. Unique upgrades will make the 2022 Audi Q3 sportier, especially outside. Paddle shifters offer another dimension of driving. The Premium Plus trim is there with the most advanced options Audi has in its portfolio. Virtual cockpit, B&O audio, navigation, and a 360-degree camera are pieces of this package.
Instead of the Prestige package, the Q3 is going to offer two upgrades for the Premium bundle. These are Convenience and Technology. The first one features auto-dimming rearview mirrors and LED lamps for the interior. You can also find the compass. Technology bundle is available only if you select Premium Plus trim. This one will add the largest touchscreen – an 10-inch display. Plus, there are a larger cluster, premium audio, and navigation, some of the features you will find on the top of the lineup versions.
2022 Audi Q3 Price and Release Date
The 2022 Audi Q3 is small, but its luxury nature is making the price pretty hefty. The MSRP starts at $36,000. Just for an example, Lexus UX will save you $3,000. On the other hand, the biggest rivals from Germany are being sold at the same price. The cost escalates pretty quickly. Premium Plus is already above $40k. Additional options, Technology and Convenience, will make it even more expensive.
The crossover will come out by the end of 2021. The company is not upgrading significantly its vehicle, so the price stays put. The competition is pretty tough. Main rivals, and best-selling vehicles, also come from Germany. BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA will be alternatives for US buyers looking for the subcompact luxury crossover.
