8U Q3 Series II

AUDI facelifted its popular Q3 compact SUV with small performance as well as fuel efficiency and driver assistance tech gains designed to keep the reduced range ahead of the pack.

The two cheapest models – the volume-selling 110kW 1.4 TFSI S-tronic front-driver turbo-petrol and 110kW 2.0 TDI S-tronic quattro turbo-diesel, gain $3000 worth of additional gear, while the 132kW 2.0 TFSI S-tronic quattro turbo-petrol and 135kW 2.0 TDI S-tronic quattro turbo-diesel score over $7000 worth of goodies. In July the RS Q3 upgrade also arrives.

Visually, a keen eye is required to spot the thicker-chromed grille surrounds, revised headlights and tail-lights, more angular bumpers, restyled alloys, improved cargo cover, and refreshed colour and trim additions.

Underneath, there are larger rear brake discs, a two-stage electronic stability control for on and off-road driving, automatic trailer detection, and a revised version of the Haldex 5.0 all-wheel drive system. All engines now meet Euro 6 emissions compliance.

On the safety front, the Q3 gains a number of assistance tech such as Audi Side Assist, Active Lane Assist, High-beam Assist, and Hill Descent Control.