This 2.0 TDI 140 version has front-wheel drive and sits in Band B for tax. A more powerful (177hp) version of the same turbodiesel engine can be had with quattro four-wheel drive and the S-Tronic automatic gearbox. A quattro version of the TDI 140 engine will become available early in 2012. Turbocharged petrol engines will be offered as well (2.0-litre TFSI with either 170- or 211hp), though these will be bought by the minority of customers and all feature quattro four-wheel drive.
Two trim levels are offered. Q3 SEs feature 17-inch alloys, rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, an infotainment system with a colour 6.5-inch retractable screen, Bluetooth, multi-function leather steering wheel and satnav 'preparation'. To activate the built-in satnav customers can simply buy an SD card at any time (at a very reasonable €195).
S line specification attracts a premium of €3,300, which includes Xenon lights with LED daytime running lights, interior and exterior visual enhancements (including tasty 18-inch alloys), a three-spoke steering wheel and cloth/leather S line interior.
Audi will allow Q3 buyers to 'downgrade' to 16-inch alloys for free if they'd like to enhance comfort.
Andrew Doyle, Managing Director, Audi Ireland, said, "The Audi Q3 is a premium SUV offering all the benefits of Audi's DNA in a more compact form. It is of course sporty, yet extremely efficient and versatile - a perfect mix of vehicle at the right time in the Irish market. We are delighted to introduce the newest member of the highly successful Q family to the Irish market."
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