Motoring Weekly

Compact with sporty character

May 16 - 22, 2012
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Audi’s new compact SUV, the Q3, has arrived in the region and the motoring giant is placing high hopes on its first entry into the segment.

The Q3 is immediately recognisable as the youngest member of the large Audi family.

Every aspect of it showcases the marque’s technology – the body, the drivetrain, the chassis and the assistance and multi-media systems.

The coupe-like lines are an expression of its sporty character. Sharp edges frame elegantly-arched sheet metal surfaces and distinctive lights xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights accentuate the front and rear.

Jeff Mannering, managing director of Audi Middle East, said: “The demand for both the Audi Q5 and Q7 still outstrips supply. We are constantly negotiating with the factory for higher allocations for the Middle East markets, even though the new generations of the Q5 and Q7 are expected only in 2013 and early 2015 respectively. We are positive that the new Audi Q3 will fare equally as well.”

The Audi Q3 offers ample room for all five passengers and claims to set new standards for ergonomics, workmanship as well as many customisation options for drivers to express their own personal style.

It is being launched with two four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI engines, which combine direct injection with turbocharging and feature an energy recovery system. With power outputs of 170 hp and 211 hp, these engines are as efficient as they are powerful. For the 170 hp and 211 hp version respectively, the engines deliver a constant 280 and 300 Nm of torque and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 and 6.9 seconds on their way to a top speed of 212 and 230 km/h respectively.

Audi combines both engines with quattro all-wheel drive and a fast-shifting dual-clutch seven-speed S tronic transmission.

The Audi Q3 – which rolls off the assembly line in Martorell, near Barcelona in Spain – is available as of now. Prices start from around BD14,000 ($37,280) for the 2.0 TFSI with 170 hp and almost BD15,000 ($39,732) for the 2.0 TFSI with 211 hp including five years or 105,000 km service (GCC).

Contact the Audi Centre Bahrain on 17459933 or call into the Sitra showroom for more details.







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