The 2016 Audi Q3 offers 2 trims, 2.0T PREMIUM PLUS, and PRESTIGE. It also offers an option to choose the drive system. The FWD variant comes for $33,700 while the AWD version comes for $35,800. The Q3 comes equipped with a 2L i6 engine that produces 200 hp and comes mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

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To get a bang for the money spent, we recommend getting the 2016 Audi Q5 Prestige AWD as it not only offers luxury and performance, it also comes loaded with additional features that enhance the overall riding experience.

Under its skin, the 2016 Audi Q3 comes with a 2.0L inline-6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission that produces 200 hp along with 207 lb-ft of torque. While the FWD setup is standard on both trims, the AWD variant is optional and is available at a premium of $2,100.

The 2016 Audi Q3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds and can breach the quarter-mile mark in 16.1 seconds. The engine feels energetic, alive, and responsive. With a cleverly tuned engine along with good road manners, the engine and the car feel smooth without any dawdle. The standard transmission feels more responsive with quick and brisk launches, due to well-spaced gears.

When tested for 0-60mph, the RDX’s V6 engine allows it to bag first place with a time of 6.2 seconds. The 2016 BMW X1 closely follows it with a time of 6.3 seconds. The Q3 takes under 8 seconds to reach 60 and thus gets listed at the lower end of the list. When compared to the competitors, the Acura produces maximum power and torque and is rated at 279hp and 252lb.-ft. While all the SUVs make use of a 6-speed automatic transmission, the X1 uses an 8-speed automatic unit.

Whether taken for a daily drive or on an interstate, the 2016 Audi Q3 lands at the lower end of the list, averaging an MPG value of 23. It is rated at 20 and 28 MPG in the city and on the highway, respectively. It sports a fuel tank of 16.9-gallons and helps in averaging a decent range.

When compared to the competitors, the 2016 Acura RDX is the least-efficient SUV averaging 22 MPG. On the other hand, however, Buick and BMW manage similar efficiencies of 26 MPG. While the former manages the lowest range in the segment, the 2016 X1 leads the segment ranging 354 and 515 miles in the city and on the highway, respectively.

The interior of the 2016 Audi Q3 feels a little cramped due to its exterior shape, which makes it perfect for a family with kids. With quality materials used inside the cabin, the interior feels plush, modern, and fine. The dashboard is not clutter-free and lacks an ergonomic aura. The controls though easy to use feel outside the reach of the driver when on the go.

In terms of space, the 2016 Audi Q3 can seat five passengers. However, it lacks considerable legroom for the rear seat passengers. What comes as a respite though, is the comfort bolstering and the padding each seat receives, providing individual passengers top-notch comfort. While interior storage space in the form of a glove compartment is ample, the cargo capacity of 16.1 cubic feet is rather underwhelming.

When compared to the competitors, each SUV can accommodate five passengers. The 2016 Acura RDX has maximum space both up front and at the rear. It also has a maximum trunk volume of 58.7 cubic feet followed by the 2016 Buick Encore managing similar space as the Audi and has a total volume of 48.2 cubic feet.

Some of the salient interior features include:

• Rear Ventilation Ducts
• 8-way Power Driver and Passenger Seats
• Leather Upholstery
• Heated Front Seats
• Interior Air Filtration
• Dual-zone Climate Control

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2016 Audi Q3?

The 2016 Audi Q3 sports an intuitive and user-friendly infotainment that garners attention for the retractable screen that sits atop the dashboard. This 7-inch display unit makes use of Audi’s traditional MultiMedia Interface (MMI) and comes connected to a 10-speaker sound system. However, if you upgrade to the Prestige trim, a 14-speaker Bose sound system replaces the base unit. It comes equipped with features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB Connection, and CD Player. Some of its other features include:

• Satellite Radio
• HD Radio
• Memory Card Slot
• AM/FM Stereo
• Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (available with Prestige trim only)

With its design cues inspired by its big brother, the Audi Q5, the 2016 Q3 stands as its sophisticated yet toned-down version. With the modern looks that beautifully blend with the straight lines and subtle curves, the Q3 stands as a beautiful crossover with a gentle sculpt. With its narrow headlamps that balance well with the air intakes along with a big logo at the front grille, the face gives the car a gentle and peaceful look.

The 2015 Audi Q3’s dimensions are smaller than its rivals. It is 172.8 inches long, 72.1 inches wide, and 62.6 inches tall. It sports a total ground clearance of 6.7 inches and has a wheelbase of 102.5 inches. It is, however, one of the heavier vehicles in the segment weighing 3,682 lbs.

The 2016 Acura RDX is the largest SUV in the segment. It is the longest, widest, and tallest in the segment and sports a wheelbase of 105.7 inches. The 2016 BMW X1 is the closest to it in terms of dimensions, but it has the highest ground clearance of 7.2 inches. The Buick, though smaller than its competitors, is also the lightest in the segment, weighing 3,358 lbs.

Some of the standout exterior features of the 2016 Audi Q3 include:

• Audi Wheel Lock Kit
• Paint Protection Film
• 18/19-inch all-season tires
• Power Tailgate
• Sport Package

The 2016 Audi Q3’s safety capabilities are backed by the safety ratings it receives. It gets scores of “Good” by the IIHS and is also recognized as their Top Safety Pick. It comes equipped with standard features like antilock disc brakes, front and side airbags, and traction and stability control. Some other safety specifications include:

• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rearview camera
• Blind-spot monitor
• Lane departure and intervention warning
• Forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking
• Daytime Running Lights

With just a year into this segment, the Audi Q3 has made its presence felt to its rivals. A perfect daily driver, the 2015 Q3 not only provides a premium and comfortable ride quality, but it also offers a great performance that will definitely make the rides even more thrilling. A gently sculpted design that beautifully blends the subtle curves with the straight lines, the Q3 creates its own niche that sets it apart and makes it a showstopper.