Contenders
Audi Q3
PRO Futuristic IP and console • Nimble handling • Big rear seat for its class
CON Lots of interior plastic • Bouncy ride • Merely adequate powertrain
Following industry trends, Audi has allowed its subcompact Q3 crossover to grow into something that can fit standard-sized Americans.
The first impression is strong. Familiar Audi exterior styling is smartly tailored to the small package, so much so that it was often mistaken for the identically hued and decidedly more expensive E-Tron.
Similarly, the dashboard—with its standard digital instrument cluster and wide, frameless touchscreen infotainment system—will make prospective buyers feel like they’ve stepped into a much more expensive model. Our top-shelf Prestige S-Line tester was well equipped with a premium stereo, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera, justifying its $8,200 premium over a base model.
The price becomes harder to justify, however, when your eyes dip below chest level, where cheap plastic abounds. Multiple judges called out the center console. It’s plain and stark and headed by a blank panel, where the ignition button and volume knob have been seemingly dropped into a sea of plastic.
The judges had universal praise for the enlarged, capacious rear seat—bonus points for USB ports and separate vents—even if it comes at a cost to cargo space. Audi’s implementation of wireless Apple CarPlay is notably better than BMW’s.
Opinions on driving performance were mixed. Although the judges agreed that its handling felt light and nimble, they also agreed it was prone to bounciness on rough pavement. The powertrain felt adequate but potentially overmatched by a full load of passengers and cargo. Despite its vaunted Quattro AWD system, the Q3’s off-road abilities split the judges.
Instead of a tall A3, we got a smaller, less expensive Q5. That’s all well and good, but it doesn’t move the needle much in its class.
Scott Evans
Vehicle Layout Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV Engine/Transmission 2.0L turbo DOHC 16-valve I-4/8-speed automatic Curb Weight (F/R Dist) 3,944 lb (57/43%) Wheelbase 105.5 in Length x Width x Height 176.6 x 72.8 x 64.1 in Energy Consumption, City/Hwy 177/125 kW-hr/100 miles CO2 Emissions, Comb 0.88 lb/mile
Audi Q8
PRO Sporty exterior design • Modern interior • Great cargo room
CON Falls short as flagship SUV • Hatchback or SUV? • Hard to see its value
With handsome exterior design and a beautifully styled interior, the Q8 is ready to fight the growing group of SUV coupes. Despite these attributes, Audi’s flagship SUV drew mixed reviews. Some judges liked its sporty handling; others criticized the Q8’s value and its ability to deliver on its premise.
The Q8 is a looker from any angle. Its octagonal grille and the sharp lines on its hood go well with its strong fenders and character lines. But its fastback profile is less pronounced than its competition.
The Q8 was one of the most talked-about vehicles in this year’s test. Like the rest of Audi’s premium lineup, the Q8’s interior got high marks. In addition to having plenty of passenger and cargo room, it was the technology that truly impressed the judges. The instrument panel shows Audi’s Virtual Cockpit with Google Maps and navigation, and there are two other screens in the center console.
The driving dynamics received mixed comments. On winding roads, some judges thought the Q8 had a composed ride with little body roll. With the optional air suspension, it feels agile and leans in nicely in the corners. But other judges thought it didn’t live up to its sporty styling. Although the Audi had good high-speed stability, judges noted a
