2021 Audi Q3 Drops Prestige Trim, Adds RS Performance Package
The 2021 Audi Q3 will be the smallest crossover in the company’s lineup, at least for North America. The Q2 is also the subcompact model, but in Europe only. The carmaker didn’t make the RS Q3 version available in the US and it could be changed in the upcoming season. The performance SUV is a wish of all Audi fans in North America.
The vehicle for the new season is not taking any serious change. The current generation of the subcompact SUV debuted in 2019. Compared to the rest of the lineup, it has the most common things with the Q8 full-size SUV. However, the 2021 Audi Q3 is smaller, and offers room for five passengers.
For the next season, the crossover will use more of the S-Line features across the portfolio. Also, you won’t see the Prestige trim, while the top of the line package is coming with the B&O audio system. Optional upgrades are Black optic appearance package and parking assistance equipment.
2021 Audi Q3 Specs
The crossover is available only with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The subcompact SUV returns only 22 mpg combined, which is a poor output for the vehicle of its size. Some seven-seaters can do much better than that. Still, the Q3 is one of the most powerful crossovers in this segment with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. BMW X1 is making the same output, but the combined fuel economy is 27 mpg. Mercedes cuts down 20 ponies and improved the mileage. So, the Q3 is behind its archrivals, but buyers still make it one of the best sellers in the previous season. An eight-speed automatic gearbox sends power to the Quattro AWD system. The crossover takes 7 seconds for 0-60 mph acceleration.
At this moment, the hybrid engine is not an option for the subcompact model. Well, these vehicles are already economical, so the hybrid technology can only upgrade power outputs. In the case of the Q3, the improvements in the gas mileage system could also be very useful. Lexus UX Hybrid beats the competition with its outputs, so Audi could use some of its E-Tron technology on the smallest unit in the US lineup.
2021 Audi RS Q3 Sportback
The 2021 Audi RS Q3 remains a big wish of the US buyers. However, the company is not confirming it for this area. The performance crossover can launch 400 horsepower and reminds us of larger SUVs. The package is available for European customers and the power source is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit that also crunches 355 lb-ft of torque. The light crossover stops the clock at 4 seconds when it hits 60 mph from a stop and reaches a maximum speed of 155 mph. We cannot guarantee that RS Q3 is coming to the US, but Audi wants to increase its presence in this part of the world. This is probably the best way to draw the interest of new buyers.
Read more at Car and Driver
Pros and Cons
Unchanged, the 2021 Audi Q3 will come with the same price as before. Some compact crossovers cost nearly half of its price. However, the luxury model offers extra features and power of a larger class. The premium interior is worth every penny. Safety is always an issue when buying a mini SUV. With the Q3 you can be calm, since the ratings are above the average, plus the company offers extra features via additional packages. The Interior is pretty spacious for this class and powertrain is very potent. Numerous options are available already with the base package, including Apple CarPlay.
On the other hand, all the advanced accessories make the crossover cost too much. Also, the exterior is not so eye-catching. The Q8 looks much better because of the size. Also, the subcompact SUV has many downsides most models common for this class. Still, the poor fuel economy is not one of them for other rivals.
Trim Levels
The 2021 YM is dropping the Prestige package from the lineup. So, now we have a Premium version in three different configurations: Base, S Line, and Plus. The standard offer includes 18-inch wheels and a panoramic sunroof. Leather seats come with heating and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are part of the infotainment system.
Upgrading the ride to the S Line, buyers are getting a wireless charger for smartphones. Keyless start is also added, as well as the 8-way power seat adjustment. Part of the appearance package are special 19-inch wheels and doorsills. Optionally, you can choose Alcantara leather for interior or larger wheels for the exterior.
Top of the range trim level for the 2021 Audi Q3 is Premium Plus. The package introduces a virtual cockpit with some of the most advanced features. Bang&Olufsen is taking care of the audio system, which comes with more speakers. Navigation is not an optional upgrade and the crossover will use more cameras and sensors for parking aid.
