Q3 shows why simplicity is key

AUDI TDI: STAKES IT CLAIM FOR BEING BASIC AND WITH A TURBODIESEL GEM UP FRONT

- Charl Bosch

Seven years old, the Audi Q3 plays third fiddle to the Q8 and Q7 as the Four Rings' oldest SUV in its current product portfolio. Not updated since its introduction, bar the inclusions of the Q3 Sportback and RS Q3, the second generation Q3 will, in fact, see out its tenure without any minor or major update.

This, after confirmation that the third generation will make its global premiere in the European summer or alternatively, when temperatures drop in the Southern Hemisphere. A reveal that comes amid Ingolstadt restructuring that will cost 7,500 employees their jobs over the next four years, the Q3 will continue opposite the A3 instead of replacing it as the latter will also be renewed in full in 2027.

Despite its lack of revisions on the Old Continent, the South African-market Q3 has undergone updates of its own, albeit mostly centred on specification rather than exterior or interior redesigns. Instead, the line-up reshuffle last year involved the addition of a new Urban trim level that straddles the gap between the second-tier Advanced—itself a step-up from the unbadged base model and the sporty S line.

Joining the Black Edition that also became available last year as the flagship derivative above the S line it is modelled on, the Urban introduces a number of features ordinarily optional or not available on the Advanced.

Externally, these include 18-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof, while the interior accommodations include a reverse camera, keyless entry and push-button start, Park Assist Plus and heated front seats.