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Audi 4x4 Q3 Small Car Review

It's fair to say that Audi's standard Q3 4 wheel drive model is the smallest in their range of sport utilities and chic crossovers.

But, the engine spec and posh interior trim are truly unparalleled at this level and the Q3 is bigger and taller than the A3.

Audi Q3 4 Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive

Some test drivers describe the small 4x4 as being "rather predictable".

But, the German firm has developed one of the best high performance crossovers available in the United Kingdom.

The small Audi 4x4 Q3 SUV shares most of the familiar styling and the technical specifications as its siblings in their three-tiered range.

Even so, when you review the fine details, you will also recognise some shared hardware with Audi's A1 supermini.

That said, it seems to lack the full-figure of Q5 models, especially the new Q5 Sportback TFSI e. But, one of the most striking features of this smallish hatchback is the badge which it displays.

Pro Tip: Another section contains a list of alternatives to consider if you are looking to buy a small 4x4 car in the United Kingdom.

Small 4 Wheel Drive Cars from Audi

This is the smallest Audi car with the RS badge. Thus, it is the only 4x4 Q production that they turned into an RS model.

The small SUV car is 'essentially' designed for tarmac roads. Hence, its raised ride height and optional four-wheel-drive might disappoint you over rough muddy tracks.

You shouldn't get fooled into leaving this one behind. It has sizable upgrades to the engine specification, interior and exterior design styling, along with the uprated suspension.

Audi 4x4 Q3 Specification

The Audi Q3 hatchback has a surprisingly large stature for a compact SUV. This comparison holds true alongside ten of the best small 4x4 cars on the market.

Small Audi 4x4 Q3 Car ReviewThat said, you might need to use a little extra vigilance through tight streets.

Plus, options for parking spaces may also be a challenge for some drivers.

Here's the thing:

There is no doubt that the added suspension height is a benefit of the Audi Q3 crossover.

Yet, its critics still review it as being a little "clumpy" over some of the typical British urban obstacles.

However, the car is definitely pleasant to handle around corners. This is despite the electric power steering feeling somewhat weak at times.

What Engine Does an Audi Q3 Have?

It is definitely a small Audi car. But the Audi Q3 4x4 has an enviable array of engines. They start with the 140bhp 2.0-litre diesel with four-wheel drive.

But, almost every Audi Q3 car review is suggesting an upgrade to the quieter 177bhp Quattro version of the same engine.

But wait - there's more:

The petrol alternative is a 2.0-litre turbo with 4WD and either 170 or 211bhp options. They are both smooth and "reasonably" nippy off the mark.

But, it's the middle diesel engine specs that appear to provide the best mix of fuel economy data, performance, and usability for its owners.

In all fairness, it hits the sweet spot between running costs and performance with 47.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 156 g/km.

4x4 Audi Q3 Interior Design and Trim

The inside layout of the Audi Q3 is smart... and functional. In fact, you would be forgiven for thinking there is as much space as the bigger Q5 range - because there almost is!

Audi Q3 Interior Design and TrimIn addition, it's worth noting that the biggest difference between the two models is the engine mounting.

How does that work?

In fact, it's mounted "across" the engine bay in the Q3 four-wheel drive version. Whereas, it actually sits lengthways in the Audi Q5 model.

All Audi Q3s have climate control as standard for the model. It was also good to see a proper phone and iPod interface inside the cabin.

Note: Optional extras include an entertainment screen and communications displaying the satellite navigation. Of course, these have now become standard features for most Audi owners in the United Kingdom.

Rating the Audi 4x4 Q3 Crossover

Most car dealers agree that Audi 4x4 models are not usually cheap to buy - and this one follows the line. What's more, they also recommend using some caution when choosing addons from the options list.

Why?

The primary reason is that it will help to reduce the risk of losing out on your initial investment when putting used Audi cars for sale - especially in the United Kingdom.

So, what do the experts suggest? In general, the train of thought seems that low-to-medium levels of accessories would be the prudent option.

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