With a Detroit Debut, Audi Q3 Joins Fast-Growing Compact-SUV Segment

The Audi Q5 was the best-selling vehicle in Audi’s lineup in 2013, but the popular SUV may have some new competition following the debut of the entry-level Audi Q3 at the Detroit Auto Show this week. Marking the German automaker’s foray into the fast-growing compact-SUV segment, the 2015 Audi Q3 will pack a lot of performance, luxury and technology into a smaller package when it goes on sale in the fall, targeting competitors like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class.

Housing a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine, the Audi Q3 will produce 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Buyers will be able to make the most of that output with optional quattro permanent all-wheel drive and an available Audi drive select system that features selectable Comfort, Dynamic and Auto modes to optimize handling and responsiveness. Inside, the Audi Q3 will come with standard amenities like 12-way heated front power seats, leather seating surfaces and a panoramic sunroof with a power retractable sunshade. A wide variety of technologies will also be available, including the Audi connect infotainment system with Wi-Fi connectivity, a Bose Surround Sound system, and a Driver Assistance package that includes Audi side assist and the Audi parking system with a rearview camera.

“Other luxury automakers have introduced more affordable compact SUVs to appeal to younger buyers, but the Q3 will be different because it won’t be an Audi in name only; it will actually feature the driving dynamics and amenities that you’d expect from more expensive models,” said Larry Bedell, general manager of Audi of Nashua, an Audi dealer serving NH. “Though its fuel economy hasn’t been announced yet, we expect the Audi Q3 will return excellent gas mileage along with its engaging performance to bolster its appeal to the new generation of luxury buyers.”

If sales of Audi’s existing SUV lineup are any indication, the Q3 has the potential to be a big seller. In 2013, U.S. sales of the Audi Q5 rose by 41 percent compared to the year prior, totaling 40,355 units. Meanwhile, the Audi Q7 moved nearly 16,000 new models for an impressive 45 percent year-over-year sales increase. Those tallies helped the overall Audi brand achieve a record sales year in the United States, with more than 158,000 of its vehicles finding new homes in 2013.

About Audi of Nashua:
A five-time winner of Audi’s prestigious Magna Society award, Audi of Nashua invites those in search of the world’s finest vehicles to explore its inventory of new and used Audi cars for sale. New Hampshire Audi owners will also find a complete selection of Audi parts and accessories, as well as expert Audi service from factory-trained technicians. Discover the quality, performance and engineering that make every Audi special by checking out their inventory at www.audinashua.com, liking them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/audiofnashua, or calling their dealership, located at 170 Main Dunstable Road in Nashua, N.H., at 888-475-5701.