Audi’s latest addition won’t be unveiled until the Shanghai Motor Show on 19 April. However, the Ingolstadt company has released sketches of its Q3 SUV, including a sneak peak of its cabin for the first time.
Think of the Q3 as Audi’s version of the X1, it is essentially a smaller iteration of the Q5 and is built on a shortened version of its platform. Design wise, it’s all very predictable with Audi’s latest corporate front end – a new slightly smaller grille with trapezoidal lower air intakes. The rear is also a scaled down version of the Q5’s rump.
The interior takes inspiration from the latest A6, with its pop-up screen and Audi’s trade mark asymmetrical dash layout. The sketches also depict various wood and aluminium inserts in the fascia which are likely to be only standard on high-spec Q3 models.
Power train will be similarly familiar with Volkswagen’s ubiquitous 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine tuned to produce either 125kW or 155kW, or a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine producing 125kW set to power the junior SUV. These will be matched to either a 6-speed manual or DSG gearboxes.
The Q3 will hit showrooms in late 2011. Stay tuned for official images and information closer to the Shanghai Motor Show.