2017 Audi Q3 gains equipment enrichment and minor visual makeover; engine output increased slightly while manual gearbox is ditched
With just three months in, the German manufacturer Audi has launched its third product of the year in the form of a 2017MY update for the top-selling Q3 luxury SUV. The entry-level SUV is priced at Rs. 34.20 lakh for the base model while the top-end Quattro equipped diesel variant carries a price of Rs. 37.20 lakh (both ex-showroom prices, New Delhi).
The 2017 Q3 is the second update in as many years and this time Audi decided to not just introduce a minor cosmetic change but make mechanical modifications to keep in line with the competition. However, Audi doesn’t offer a manual gearbox in the Q3 range this time around. The updated Q3 is made available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations.
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The 2.0-litre Quattro diesel in the previous model was able to produce a maximum power of 177 horsepower but now it gets a 7 hp bump to increase the output to 184 hp. Despite the power hike, the peak torque remains the same at 380 Nm. The engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.
As for the 140 hp and 320 Nm producing front-wheel-drive Q3 motor from the older model, it has undergone significant update as well. Audi has given a 10 hp and 20 Nm increase and ditched the manual gearbox to make way for a seven-speed automatic gearbox. It is more fuel efficient at 18.51 kmpl while the Quattro version is ARAI certified to return 15.17 kmpl.
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On the design front, the updated Q3 comes with a restyled bumper that coheres with the sharp character lines and a sleek grille assembly. The new air intakes on the front bumper render an aggressive stance as well while panoramic sunroof feature is provided as standard. The C-shaped LED headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights reinforce its sturdy appeal.
Besides the 17-inch V-spoke alloy wheels as standard fitment, the 2017 Q3 gains electrically adjustable front seats, cruise control, a MMI navigation system, reversing camera and Deluxe dual-zone automatic climate control system.
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