Summary


The Audi Q3 is a mid-sized SUV/crossover, built on the same platform as the Volkswagen Tiguan. This was the first-generation model, first launched in 2011 and replaced by the current Q3 generation in 2018.

Available with either a manual or automatic gearbox, the original Q3 range was praised by reviewers from launch thanks to its wide selection of both petrol and diesel engines, which were said to be quite economical when compared to class rivals like the BMW X2 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

The Q3 was also commended for its polite road manners and assured handling, but many journalists commented that this made the car rather dull to drive, with Car Keys concluding that it was “too sensible for its own good.”

Auto Express labelled the Audi Q3 “a competent if uninspiring performer”, while Car said its test drive was a “decent, but hardly memorable drive.”

Overall, reviewers generally agreed that the original Q3 was a car that you buy with your head rather than your heart, particularly as it was slightly cheaper than its BMW and Mercedes-Benz competition at the time.

By the end of the Q3’s production life, however, a few motoring outlets were saying that its infotainment system and interior trim were starting to look dated. “The Audi Q3 is a bit of a dinosaur”, Carwow concluded, “but it still looks good and feels well put together.”

The first-generation Audi Q3 holds an Expert Rating of 64%, based on 25 reviews published by the UK media. This is lower than the current Q3’s score of 69%.

    Q3 highlights

    • Assured handling
    • High-quality interior
    • Wide range of engine choices
    • Comfortable ride quality

    Q3 lowlights

    • Rather cramped rear seats
    • A bit dull to drive
    • High boot access
    • Dated infotainment and interior

    Key specifications


    Body style: Medium SUV
    Engines: petrol, diesel
    Price when new: From £23,745 on-road

    Launched: Autumn 2011Last updated: Winter 2014/15
    Replaced: Autumn 2018


    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

    Audi Q3 (2011 – 2014)

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

    Audi Q3 (2011 – 2014)

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

    Audi Q3 (2015 – 2018)

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

    Audi Q3 (2015 – 2018)

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

    Media reviews


    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

    Auto Express

    +

    Model reviewed: (2011)Score: 6 / 10“The Audi Q3 Mk1 impresses with its classy cabin and efficient engines, but it’s neither the roomiest nor most affordable small SUV out there.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10“The Q3’s visual facelift is handsome, and the new 1.4 petrol is smoother, quieter and nearly as punchy as a diesel, making it cheap to run for private and company car buyers.”
    Read review

    Auto Trader

    +

    Model reviewed: (2014-18)Score: 7.2 / 10“The Audi Q3 offers the economy and versatility of a hatchback, with the added style and luxury feel of a premium 4×4.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: Score: 7.8 / 10“The Audi Q3 is certainly one of the most advanced and efficient SUCs, and it’s also cracking to drive.”
    Read review

    Autocar

    +

    Model reviewed: (2011-17)Score: 7 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a desirable and capable contender that fails to engage its driver, which ultimately, leaves it trailing the BMW X1 and the Range Rover Evoque.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Quattro“Audi’s new junior 4×4 has class, quality and real dynamic polish, but is a little short on space.”
    Read review

    Business Car

    +

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TDIScore: 8 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a quality small 4×4 package with impressive running costs but P11D price isn’t cheap.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: “At £1,430 less than the equivalent 4×4 model, and a BIK saving of £28 per month for a higher rate tax payer, the 2WD Q3 is a very fleet-friendly addition.”
    Read review

    Car

    +

    Model reviewed: Performance (2016)Score: 6 / 10“The price premium over the standard car has been judged with fiendish brilliance: the Performance is only a bit quicker, but it is quicker. It only looks a bit cooler, but it does look cooler.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: 1.4 TFSI S-line (2014)Score: 6 / 10“The 1.4 TFSI is an entertaining yet efficient motor. With the Audi Q3 a capable chassis, albeit a little dull in terms of steering and a tad rough on ride quality, its hatch-like character wins you over.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: Score: 6 / 10“The latest 2012 Audi Q3 is a very decent, if hardly memorable drive.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: TDI 138bhp FWD SE (2012)Score: 6 / 10“For the majority of buyers, a hyper-polished, restrained slug of quality wearing an Audi Q3 badge will be quite enough.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI Quattro (2011)Score: 6 / 10“Cabin quality, refinement, all the usual things that appeal about Audis, are present and correct in the Q3. Disregard the petrol engines and it’s a case of less is more though: the entry-level 138bhp 2.0 TDI is by far the best model.”
    Read review

    Car Keys

    +

    Carbuyer

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 4.2 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a small SUV with an upmarket design and interior, which goes head-to-head with the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA.”
    Read review

    Carwow

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 7 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a well-built SUV that’s reasonably spacious, has low running costs and is easy to drive, but has a dated interior and infotainment system.”
    Read review

    Evo

    +

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TFSI QuattroScore: 8 / 10“The Audi Q3 is quick, clean and good to drive.”
    Read review

    Green Car Guide

    +

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI (177PS) quattro SE S tronicScore: 8 / 10“The Audi Q3 2.0 TDI Quattro is a very refined four-wheel drive SUV crossover that can achieve 47.9mpg.”
    Read review

    Honest John

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 6 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a stylish, compact SUV with impressive fuel economy and low CO2.”
    Read review

    Parkers

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10“The Audi Q3 is a capable mini-SUV.”
    Read review

    The Sunday Times

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10“The Q3 offers Audi prestige with a big range of engines, good road manners and the choice of 2WD and 4WD.”
    Read review

    Model reviewed: 2.0 TDI quattro SE S tronic (2012)“The Audi Q3 is not practical, not nice to drive, and technologically, not thought out well, either.”
    Read review

    The Telegraph

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 6 / 10“The Q3 is a decent enough family SUV, but it lacks charm. The cheap-feeling interior isn’t up to Audi’s usual high standards, while the unsupportive seats make long trips hard work, and the boot isn’t as large as you’d hope.”
    Read review

    What Car?

    +

    Model reviewed: Score: 8 / 10“The Q3 was always a competent if uninspiring performer.”
    Read review

    Which?

    +

    Model reviewed: “Despite the raised platform and hefty weight, the Q3 is a surprisingly impressive car to drive. Some excellent engines offer strong performance, and there’s the option of Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system.”
    Read review

    Safety rating

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)


    No safety rating

    The first-generation Audi Q3 was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2011 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2017 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating.

    Eco rating

    audi q3 (2011 – 2018)


    No eco rating

    The first-generation Audi Q3 was not lab tested by Green NCAP as its production life pre-dated the organisation’s founding in 2019.

    Reliability rating


    The Audi Q3 has a better-than-average reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both the original version of the Q3 and the current second-gen iteration.

    Almost 60% of all reported problems with the Q3 relate to its engine, with an average repair bill of more than £600. The other area to look out for is the fuel system, which accounts for around an eighth of repair claims. Fortunately, the average bill for these was only about £200. Gearbox problems are the most expensive, but fortunately they appear to be relatively rare. The petrol and diesel engines in the Q3 are all used in many other Audi and Volkswagen Group (VW, SEAT, Skoda) models, so they are well proven.

    If you’re looking at a used Audi Q3, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

    Awards


    Trophies, prizes and awards that the Audi Q3 has received

    2012

    • Off Road Magazine Awards – Best Crossover

    Similar cars


    If you’re looking at the Audi Q3, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    BMW X1 | BMW X2 | Cupra Ateca | Cupra Formentor | DS 3 Crossback | Jaguar E-Pace | Lexus UX | Mercedes-Benz GLA | Range Rover Evoque | Volkswagen Tiguan | Volvo XC40

      Buy a used Audi Q3


      If you’re looking to buy a Audi Q3, The Car Expert’s partners can help you find the right car

      Buy a car online from your sofa. We’ll deliver it.

      Search less, live more. We make finding the right car simple.

      The UK’s automotive search engine. All the cars in one place.

      Finding your next car is easy at Motorpoint.

      Car subscriptions


      If you’re interested in a car subscription, The Car Expert’s partners can help (PS: What’s a car subscription?)

      Car subscriptions from Mycardirect.

      Car subscriptions from Wagonex.

      audi q3 (2011 – 2018)

      Electric car subscriptions from Elmo.

      Keyword: Audi Q3 (2011 – 2018)

      CAR'S NEWS RELATED

      What’s the correct tyre pressure for your Audi A3

      We take you through the recommended tyre pressures for all Audi A3 models produced from 2003 until 2022. Effects of incorrect tyre pressure Under-inflated tyres will cause excess wear and tear on the inside and outside edges of the tread. Over-inflated tyres have a much narrower contact patch with the road ...

      View more: What’s the correct tyre pressure for your Audi A3

      Audi Elevates A4 and S4 Sedan Appeal With Black Edition Offshoot

      Image: Audi Image: Audi Image: Audi NewsBy: Ryan De Villiers Audi has emboldened its A4 and S4 sedan model’s appeal by debuting the Black Edition offshoots, which offers greater visual appeal and improved convenience features. Image: Audi Pricing:  Audi A4 35 TFSI S tronic Black Edition: R900 000 Audi ...

      View more: Audi Elevates A4 and S4 Sedan Appeal With Black Edition Offshoot

      The Audi TT Is Dead. This Is The Last Car Built

      After 662,762 vehicles assembled, the Tourist Trophy is no more.

      View more: The Audi TT Is Dead. This Is The Last Car Built

      New Audi cars and SUVs coming to South Africa in 2024

      Audi will expand its South African portfolio in 2024 with a number of special-edition models for its most popular vehicles. In no particular order, the German automaker confirmed that, next year, it will bring the following vehicles to our shores: A3 and S3 Black Edition A3 Sportback 35TFSI Urban ...

      View more: New Audi cars and SUVs coming to South Africa in 2024

      Limited-edition Audi A4 Black Edition for South Africa – Only 100 up for grabs

      Black Edition specifications Price Audi A4 Black Edition The Audi A4 Black Edition is launching in South Africa soon in four specifications starting at R900,000. The popular four-door has been on sale in its current form since 2020 in Standard, Advanced, and S Line trims, with the Black Edition ...

      View more: Limited-edition Audi A4 Black Edition for South Africa – Only 100 up for grabs

      834-HP Honda Civic Wagon Vs. Stock Audi RS5 Drag Proves Power Isn't Everything

      This battle is between an all-wheel-drive Honda Civic wagon making 834 hp against a stock Audi RS5 shows that grip is just as important as power numbers.

      View more: 834-HP Honda Civic Wagon Vs. Stock Audi RS5 Drag Proves Power Isn't Everything

      Audi e-tron GT caught with a sporty facelift for the first time

      Audi’s high-performance EV is getting an upgrade. The Audi e-tron GT was caught testing for the first time, revealing the electric car’s sporty new facelift. Audi, Porshe upgrade to rival Tesla Like the Porsche Taycan, Audi’s e-tron GT was one of the first fully electric models to take on ...

      View more: Audi e-tron GT caught with a sporty facelift for the first time

      We Spied The Next-Gen Audi S5 Sportback

      Photo: Daniel Golson/Jalopnik One of my favorite car-related things about living in Los Angeles is the frequency with which I see camouflaged test vehicles. Automakers from America, Europe, Japan, Korea and more have design centers or R&D facilities in Southern California, and others will just ship cars out here ...

      View more: We Spied The Next-Gen Audi S5 Sportback

      This Is Audi's New A5 Wagon Before You're Supposed To See It

      Audi S3 And RS3 Sedans Are Getting New Lights And Bumpers

      Audi SQ8 e-tron first drive: This tri-motor EV drives nimbly for its size, but sacrifices a lot of range

      The Tri-Motor SQ8 E-Tron Is The First Audi That’s So Fun It Made Me Giggle

      2024 Audi SQ8 Sportback E-Tron First Drive: Maybe The Best-Handling Electric SUV Right Now

      30 lakh budget: Exploring options for a preowned German petrol sedan

      Most affordable crossover from every brand in South Africa

      What is the Audi RS3 top speed?

      Tesla, Audi, And Nissan EVs Have Minimal Winter Range Loss

      Tesla releases update with new way to activate Autopilot/FSD and separate backseat audio

      Here's An Early Look At The Next-Generation Audi Q7

      Audi Waves Goodbye To The R8 With An Emotional 'The Last Lap' Video

      OTHER CAR NEWS

      ; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
      Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel