Used 2020 Audi Q3

In the compact-luxury-SUV game, the 2020 Audi Q3 is an exceptional player. Elevating the level of luxury typically found in an entry-level model, the Q3 impresses with its standard-feature set, high-tech cabin and distinctive styling.

Cutting-edge safety features are here too, but oddly offered mostly as options and not standard equipment. In a world where even the most basic Toyota comes standard with autonomous braking, auto high beams and blind-spot monitoring, it seems absurd a car like the Q3 shouldn’t also.

Driver assists aside, the Q3 offers a roomy interior and ample cargo space. It also offers such desirable features as all-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, digital instrument cluster and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility all standard. Good luck finding that on the base BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA or Volvo XC40.

The 2020 Audi Q3 is now in a much better position to compete with its rivals, thanks to its mix of beautiful style, a spacious interior and a wide array of technology features. While this Audi isn’t as sporty as other models in the company’s lineup, it proved an entertaining vehicle on twisty roads.

The biggest shortcoming of the new Q3 is with transmission programming: Shifts are somewhat jumpy when accelerating at lower speeds, but putting the vehicle into Dynamic mode helps smooth out shifts. Once you get past that initial jumpiness, power delivery is smooth and linear, and while 228 horsepower might seem more than adequate for a vehicle of this size, the Q3’s overall straight-line performance struck us as fast, but not overwhelmingly fast.

Audi’s Q3 for 2020 feels most at home on the open road. Steering response is light and accurate, and Audi has done an admirable job of balancing performance and comfort. The Q3’s interior looks like it was pulled from a much more expensive Audi, making the drive that much nicer. This isn’t a vehicle that’s about hard-core performance; it’s about the overall experience.

With the newest Q3, Audi has taken an already attractive interior and made it even better. Its high-quality materials and sharp, modern design give the Q3’s cabin the look and feel of an interior that’s at least a class above, and front and rear seats are notably roomier than they were in the previous model. The second row slides forward and back for added space.

The center stack starts with a 10.1-inch screen that controls infotainment, with heat/vent/air-conditioning (HVAC) controls below. Nestled underneath those hard buttons is an available wireless smartphone charger, which worked with an iPhone 8+ without having to take it out of its case. The Q3 comes standard with a digital gauge cluster, which is replaced with the Audi virtual cockpit in higher trim levels.

While the regular Q3 uses leather with wood accents, the S line is available with a sport interior (including paddle shifters) and orange Alcantara accents on the dash and doors.

Taking a cue from the formidable sedan line, the 2020 Audi Q3 defines itself with a wide stance, subtle sheetmetal creases and sharply angled lines around the LED headlights and single-piece octagonal grille. Wide wheel arches house big 18-, 19- or 20-inch wheels touting bold designs that make the Q3 look like it’s moving fast even when standing still.

An integrated rear spoiler is both beautiful and functional, as are the LED taillights found on every model. The S-line models get a slightly more aggressive front end, with wider lower openings housing the fog lights and a connective gray trim piece that runs under the grille.

GORGEOUS, FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR
Tall passengers will find the 2020 Audi Q3’s rear seating rather accommodating without infringing on cargo space. From the quality materials and stunning design to the integration of such high-tech features as a 10.1-inch touch screen and digital instrument cluster, the Q3 doesn’t disappoint.

CLASS-LEADING TECH
Along with the aforementioned features, the 2020 Audi Q3 also comes standard with both Type A and C USB ports, Audi pre sense collision warning and preparation plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For just a bit more money, buyers can opt for a top-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, advanced driver-assist systems and Audi’s brilliant virtual cockpit.

The Q3 offers a lot of value for the money. All Q3s come with all-wheel drive, which is optional in most competitors’ comparable models. Inside, there’s a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, plus an 8.8-inch touch screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. There are four USB ports, including USB-C ports, and the audio system uses 10 speakers and a 6-channel amp. Dual-zone climate control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, leather heated 8-way-power front seats, and a panoramic sunroof are also standard.

Safety features include six airbags, Audi pre sense basic and pre sense front with passenger detection, plus hill-descent assist.

Opting for higher trim levels offers an expanded roster of features, including the Audi virtual cockpit; an MMI touch pad with a larger screen (10.1 inches) and navigation; and a 15-speaker/680-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system. You can also get a top-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, power-folding side mirrors, power lumbar support for the front passenger (only the driver gets that with the Premium model), and 19- or 20-inch wheels.

Other options include paddle shifters and orange Alcantara interior accents. While the Q3 comes standard with six airbags, rear side airbags are a stand-alone option.

Simplifying the 2020 Audi Q3’s engine roster is the choice of just one engine, one driveline and one transmission. A 228-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual-shift mode powers every Q3. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Fuel economy of 19-mpg city and 27-mpg highway is below most gasoline-powered rivals and well below the hybrid Lexus UX. Audi claims the Q3 can accelerate to 60 mph in just seven seconds running on premium fuel, which is recommended but not required.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
228 horsepower @ 5,000-6,700 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,700-4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/27 mpg