The 2023 Audi Q3 is a subcompact luxury crossover, meaning it provides a higher seating position than a sedan but offers less space than a typical SUV. It also offers a level of ride comfort and interior plushness meant to rival competitors from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus. This is a tricky combination to pull off, but the Q3 walks this fine line with class and style. Its cabin is full of high-quality materials, and it borrows from Audi’s handsome design language and excellent technology features. The quiet ride and unbothered on-road manners are another strong point, though we wish the Q3 were a little more fun to drive.
This version of the 2023 Audi Q3 has been around since 2019. And just last year, Audi issued an impressive upgrade to the software system controlling the touchscreen. That means all Q3s are now running the latest MIB3 infotainment system, whether equipped with the standard 8.8-inch screen or the optional 10.1-inch screen. We’ve found it’s a solid addition to what was already a tech-forward offering in the class.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
Every 2023 Audi Q3 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic transmission, and Quattro all-wheel drive. The engine is available in two states of tune, which Audi badges 40 TFSI and 45 TFSI.
The Q3 40 TFSI produces 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Expect fuel economy to rate at about 23/30 mpg city/highway.
In the Q3 45 TFSI, engine output rises to 228 hp and 258 lb-ft. In our testing, it enabled a 7.8-second 0-60-mph time. Fuel economy is also expected to fall; the 2022 model with this engine was rated 21/28 mpg.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
Although passenger space in the Q3 is comparable to that in its segment competitors, its cargo capacity is on the smaller side.
| Legroom (front/rear) | Cargo Space (seats up/down) | |
| 2023 Audi Q3 | 40.0/39.1 inches | 23.7/48.0 cubic feet |
| 2022 Volvo XC40 | 40.9/39.1 inches | 20.7/57.5 cubic feet |
| 2022 BMW X1 | 40.4/37.0 | 27.1/58.7 cubic feet |
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
As standard, the 2023 Audi Q3 is equipped with a 10.3-inch digital gauge display and 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with a 10-speaker audio system. For 2023, a wireless charging pad becomes standard and supplements the USB ports.
Choosing the Technology package on the Premium Plus model adds a 12.3-inch gauge display and 10.1-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation. Amazon Alexa functionality, wireless Apple CarPlay, and premium Sonos speakers are also added.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
The 2023 Audi Q3 earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the highest possible score. In IIHS testing, the 2022 Q3 earned the top Good score in five crashworthiness tests, and the second-best Acceptable score in the updated side crash test.
Standard driver assist and active safety tech includes front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, side cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beams. Adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist are added on the Premium Plus trim level.
PHOTOS
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FULL SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
PRICE AS TESTED
$44,990 (base price: $35,695)
ENGINE TYPE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, direct fuel injection
Displacement
121 cu in, 1984 cc
Power
228 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque
258 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 13.4-in vented disc/12.2-in vented disc
Tires: Bridgestone Potenza S005, 255/40R-20 101Y AO
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 105.5 in
Length: 176.6 in
Width: 72.8 in
Height: 64.1 in
Passenger volume: 94 cu ft
Cargo volume: 24 cu ft
Curb weight: 3915 lb
C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 7.4 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 19.3 sec
Zero to 120 mph: 34.0 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 8.3 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.8 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 5.3 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 15.7 sec @ 91 mph
Top speed (governor limited, mfr’s claim): 130 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 160 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.91 g
C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 21 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 22/19/27 mpg
