Audi has extended the Sportback shape and nomenclature normally reserved for its A1, A2, A5 and A7 to the Q3.
Like other Sportback models, the 'coupe' body shape refers to the sloping roof and not the number of doors. In this instance, the design takes some cues from the Q8. This includes accentuated wheel arches, large wheels and a wide, squat design.
For the Audi Q3 Sportback, two petrol engines are available on offer in South Africa. These two engine options are also offered across the Audi Q3 model range.
The 1.4 TFSI in the Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI delivers 110 kW and 250 Nm matched to a six speed S tronic transmission and produces a 0-100 km/h claim figure of 9.3 seconds.
The Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI quattro S line is fitted with a 2.0 TFSI engine producing 132 kW, 320 Nm and a seven speed S tronic transmission which allows it to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds.
The Q3 Sportback has been designed as a fully-fledged five seater. The volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 530 l to 1,400 l with the rear seats folded down.
The Audi Q3 Sportback will offer the "Package Concept" as introduced on other new models launched in South Africa. The concept aims to reduce complexity when ordering a new vehicle, considering that a customer is generally faced with a long list of options. It classifies key options according to a specific customer need and offers a straight-forward value proposition that is easy to understand.
Competitors are BMW’s X1 and X2 and Mercedes-Benz’s GLA and GLB ranges.
Prices (August 2020):
Audi Q3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic (R693 000)
Audi Q3 Sportback 40 TFSI quattro S tronic (R737 000)
Toyota has added the Corolla Cross GR-S to its local line-up, a version that introduces sport-focused styling and adjustments to the driving experience. The Corolla Cross GR-S takes the established strengths of the Corolla Cross and adds styling, interior details, and suspension changes that set it apart from the rest of the line-up.
Citroën has expanded its South African line-up with the launch of the Basalt, a new SUV-coupé that blends bold styling, everyday practicality, and comfort-focused technology. Positioned as part of the brand’s C-Cubed programme, the Basalt joins the C3 and Aircross, offering a distinctive fastback silhouette and a package tailored to local driving conditions.
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), developer of a national network of off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, has formally submitted an objection to the South African National Roads Agency Limited’s (SANRAL) proposed amendments to its Rest and Service Facilities (RSF) Policy.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Toyota has added the Corolla Cross GR-S to its local line-up, a version that introduces sport-focused styling and adjustments to the driving experience. The Corolla Cross GR-S takes the established strengths of the Corolla Cross and adds styling, interior details, and suspension changes that set it apart from the rest of the line-up.
Citroën has expanded its South African line-up with the launch of the Basalt, a new SUV-coupé that blends bold styling, everyday practicality, and comfort-focused technology. Positioned as part of the brand’s C-Cubed programme, the Basalt joins the C3 and Aircross, offering a distinctive fastback silhouette and a package tailored to local driving conditions.
When South Africans buy a car, the purchase price is only the beginning of the ownership story. The real cost unfolds over years of fuel stops, service intervals, replacement parts and the occasional unexpected repair.
