Audi Q3 problems
The Audi Q3 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV made by Audi. The Q3 has a transverse-mounted front engine, and entered production in 2011.
First generation (Typ 8U; 2011)
Concept Vehicle: Audi Cross Coupé quattro (2007)
Designed by Julian Hoenig in 2006, it was a concept vehicle with Liquid Silver body colour, 20-inch wheels, fabric folding roof, electrically controlled hood, 4-cylinder 2.0 TDI engine rated at 204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp) and 400 N⋅m (295.02 lbf⋅ft), diesel particulate filter and Bluetec emission control system, quattro permanent four-wheel drive system with Haldex clutch, Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, MacPherson strut front axle and a four-link rear axle, Audi drive select system with 3 modes (dynamic, sport, efficiency), MMI control panel with touch pad and dual-view technology, sound system with the prominent extending tweeters.
The vehicle was unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show in April, 2007.
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Audi Q3 model years
Common Audi Q3 problems
The Audi Q3, a compact SUV introduced in Australia in 2012, has faced several common problems reported by its owners. While the car has received praise for its coupe-like profile and handling capabilities, it has also been criticized for reliability issues, particularly in models built between 2012 and 2015.
One of the most significant problems is related to the EA189 turbo-diesel engine, which was used in Q3s built between 2012 and 2015. These vehicles may not be legally drivable until they have been checked and updated by an Audi dealer due to emissions-related concerns. This issue is associated with the dieselgate scandal, which affected several Volkswagen Group vehicles, including Audis.
Another common problem with the Audi Q3 involves the timing chain in petrol engines. Some owners have reported premature timing chain failure, which can result in the entire engine being ruined. Audi has introduced a later timing chain design that resolves this issue, and affected vehicles can be identified and repaired by Audi dealers.
Automatic gearbox problems, specifically with the dual clutch transmission, have also been reported. These issues involve premature failures and can lead to shuddering when taking off or a loss of drive. While Audis may not be as problematic as other brands in the Audi-VW family, any transmission that exhibits such symptoms should be thoroughly inspected and repaired if necessary.
Reliability issues aside, many Q3 owners have expressed concerns about the high cost of servicing, with dealership servicing being relatively pricey compared to other brands.
In terms of design and functionality, the Audi Q3 has an almost coupe-like profile, which may compromise interior space. Back seat space is adequate, but tall adults may find legroom to be limited. The rear seat headroom is also affected by the coupe styling, making it less suitable for taller occupants. The boot space is sufficient for a pushchair but may not accommodate golf clubs without folding down the rear seats.
Diesel models, in particular, require frequent motorway journeys to ensure the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can regenerate, as a clogged-up DPF can be costly to replace. Additionally, if a DPF-equipped car has been shut off partway through a regeneration, the oil system may become contaminated with fuel, leading to potential engine damage.
Recalls have been issued for certain Q3 models, including possible brake light failure when the parking brake is operated and potential issues with the seat frame, design trim, and bolted connection of the pull rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal.
In summary, the Audi Q3 has faced several common problems, including engine and transmission issues, particularly in models built between 2012 and 2015. Reliability concerns, high service costs, and design limitations, such as limited interior space and DPF requirements, have also been reported by owners. However, the car is praised for its handling capabilities and coupe-like styling.
What issues does the Audi Q3 have?
Here are the most common problems reported by Audi Q3 owners:
- Windshield Breaks:
- Antenna Issues:
- Stopped Working While Driving:
- TPMS Not Working:
- 2015: Three complaints have been filed for the 2015 Q3 model. ...
- 2016: One complaint has been reported for the 2016 Q3 model.
Is the Audi Q3 a reliable vehicle?
Is the 2024 Q3 Reliable? The 2024 Audi Q3 has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What are the cons of a Audi Q3?
Cons
- Lackluster fuel economy.
- Limited rear passenger and cargo space.
- Not much fun to drive.
Is the Audi Q3 expensive to maintain?
Audi Q3 Maintenance Costs. An Audi Q3 will cost about $11,843 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury SUV models by $3,871.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi Q3 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi Q3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi Q3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi Q3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi Q3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi Q3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi Q3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi Q3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Q3 model years
A total of 4 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Q3 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Q3 model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 145 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi Q3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi Q3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi Q3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WA1BECF36L1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Design and/or manufacturing flaw in Audi m/n 8R0071128C Fork Mount Bike Rack presents a risk of bicycle becoming detached from the rack/vehicle at highway speeds. I have retained all parts and they could be made available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Risk is bicycle flying off the roof of a car at highway speeds causing significant damage to the carrying vehicle and/or triggering a serious accident involving nearby vehicles. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not yet, but I have been engaged in a very slow moving dialog with a number of Audi representatives, most recently with Lori W, Region Case Manager, Audi CXC (Audi of America Customer Experience Center). Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Not Applicable Travelling at highway speed was a bang on car roof. Pulled over and found that the bicycle mounted on the Audi m/n 8R0071128C Fork Mount Bike Rack was no longer secured. After removing the bicycle, I saw that 1of2 threaded parts that clamp the bicycle fork to the rack was gone, bang heard likely was that part hitting roof. Remaining 2of2 threaded part was loose, could be turned by hand and was in danger of also falling off. It appears that the design of Audi m/n 8R0071128C enables these critical parts to unthread and detach during use. Possible fixes may be as simple as use of a permanent type thread locking compound during manufacturing or as complex as a redesign which does not present the possibility of failing in such an unsafe manner. See photos.
Audi Q3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: WA1GFCFS1GR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving through Franconia Notch on [XXX] when my engine suddenly started to slow down my speed I was on a part of highway that had no pull off and was one lane divided highway. I was no longer able to able to maintain a speed over 40 mph and no where to pull off put me in a dangerous situation. I did eventually make it out of the notch but not after a few miles. I took it to an Audi verified dealer and was told (I have a video) that this was due to a spontaneous consumption of oil event which is a known problem and needs a new engine. I contacted Audi and they said my car year was not included in the class action lawsuit and would not cover my engine and should become included I would be notified by mail. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Audi Q3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: WA1DECF34L1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The moonroof leaks during rain or car wash, flooding interior and control panel and interior lights.
Audi Q3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: WA1EECF36L1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The Sun roof is leaking into the cabin through the overhead control panel and the driver door.
Audi Q3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- VIN: WA1EFCFS8GR
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: My Audi Q3 was in repair at Audi Spokane WA for an issue with the steering wheel, horn and airbag. I had it inspected at a shop in Moscow ID who diagnosed the damage as the Wheel Clock Spring. Lux Auto Hause advised that I contact Audi Dealership and stated the clock spring is under warranty. I made the next available appt with the dealership because Audi required my vehicle to be inspected at the dealership in Spokane WA before covering a warranty repair. The dealership is approximately 150 miles away and Audi stated in their letter that my Q3 had to meet qualifying factors for the warranty repair which were passenger airbag light that stays on and steering wheel controls not working. Audi covered the warranty repair and returned my Q3 with the steering wheel controls broken and Audi damaged my cruise control. I could hear plastic pieces in my vehicle steering wheel. I requested that they reinspect the supposed repair and waited for another 4 hours at the dealership. Audi did nothing about the damage and insisted it is damage from something else. Audi stated 2 times…we cleared the passenger airbag light which seemed to be their only concern. Audi left me with my vehicle seriously damaged, they did not repair the steering wheel or the hand controls and damaged my ability to drive my Audi with the cruise control. I filed a complaint with Audi in MI and they did not initiate a repair for the damage they caused my Audi Q3. When I attempted to provide the diagnostic from Lux Auto Hause that proved my cruise control did not have an error code prior to being at Audi- they ignored me. Lux Auto Hause is 1 of 2 Authorized European repairers in my area. I have had successful repairs completed there and can’t understand why Audi would be negligent when I can prove the damage didn’t exist prior to the clock spring breaking. My Audi Q3 steering, hand controls and after being at the dealer-my cruise control. Is this something the NHTSA can investigate?
Audi Q3 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
- VIN: WA1DECF30M1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tire Size p235/50r19 Bought car used with new tires on [XXX] is now 08/20 have driven car for roughly 2500miles and tires began losing air irregularly took into tire shop to find both fronts with severe separation damage and wear patterns on both front tires. Rear tires also experienced separation damage as well. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Audi Q3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-27
- VIN: WA1EECF32R1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brakes are making a loud grinding noise, especially when the car is first used from a cold start. I have taken it to Audi 2 times and been told it is multiple reasons that are causing it and they say there is no fixing it. First, I was told it had been sitting for a while and after they drove it the sound disappeared and would not come back. Second I was told it is because I live near the ocean, even if the car has only been in the are for a few weeks. Also, I was told keeping it in the garage won’t help. Third I was told it is a known problem by Audi and some of their cars make this horrible noise. Forth, I was told that since I bought the car in Nashville it most likely sat on the lot for a long period of time and the snow or water caused the problem. The report says the rotors had rust, and the pads were sticking to the rotors. I do not feel the car is safe to drive, and have little confidence that the brakes are safe. I have contacted Audi corporate, Audi Brentwood (who told me the car was fixed before I bought it) and Audi North in Sanford Florida who gave me all the other excuses and stated repeatedly that this noise is a normal problem with Audi. Please help!
Audi Q3 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-12
- VIN: WA1ECCFS1JR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi Q3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed as a failure with the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed as a carbon build-up in the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
Audi Q3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated that the horn became inoperable and additionally, the hand controls were not functioning as needed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The horn was also inoperable. The manufacturer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. The VIN was not available.
Audi Q3 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-11
- VIN: WA1GFCFS8GR
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Drivers rear wishbone control arm has a baseball seize hole corrosion. Passenger rear wishbone has surface cracks. Significant safety consern if driver rear wishbone failed while driving . Dealer recommended not to drive vehicle replacement of the component is required
Audi Q3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-01
- VIN: WA1FECF3XL1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: There is a large flaw on these vehicles. The sunroof framing becomes damaged. This creates an issue of water leaking in the interior. It causes an electrical issue as well as creates a distracted driving environment. I was driving when this happened and I had to start controlling the water leaking from the roof of my vehicle. This is a large safety issue that Audi knows about and even has a technical documentation to repair this issue.
Audi Q3 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-21
- VIN: WA1ECCFS5HR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Car is burning oil at a very rapid pace and is causing knocking and seizing of engine. I had my oil changed recently (10K miles I’m supposed to have prior to my next) it was empty after I drove less then 1,000
Audi Q3 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-14
- VIN: WA1BECF3XL1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Child safety locks turn on and after a point it shut off.I turn in the problem to the dealer but the problem didn’t get fix.what I understand Audi is the deal take my vehicle and have it sitting in there lot and don’t fix my problem and I would have to take the vehicle 2 to 3 more times with the same problem not getting problems resolved then when I get upset and I complain then I get videos that they are working on my vehicle.
Audi Q3 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-27
- VIN: WA1GFCFS2FR
- Components: ENGINE,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi Q3. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the oil light remained illuminated. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who confirmed that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption. The mechanic performed an oil change however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that the controls on the steering wheel were inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel air bag was inoperable due to the electrical shortage in the steering wheel. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,600.
Audi Q3 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-21
- VIN: WA1DECF34R1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q3. The contact stated that while turning off the vehicle, the vehicle independently restarted upon exiting the vehicle. The contact also stated that the vehicle failed to automatically lock upon exiting the vehicle as designed. On multiple occasions after locking the vehicle with the key fob, the contact stated that the vehicle was unlocked upon returning to the vehicle. The contact stated that the message "Antenna: malfunction - A technical Failure Occurred - Please contact Service" was displayed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there was no fix available. The contact later received an email from the manufacturer for a buyback offer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 569.
Latest 5 recalls Audi Q3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Audi Q3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi Q3 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
- Model: Audi Q3 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
- Model: Audi Q3 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-31
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
- Consequence: An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audis customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.
- Model: Audi Q3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the infotainment main unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 91Ei.
- Model: Audi Q3 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-19
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Audi Q3 vehicles. A window manufacturing error may allow the rear window to crack or break.
- Consequence: A broken rear window may result in loose pieces of glass and increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will check the manufacturing date of the vehicle's rear window and replace it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 11, 2022. Owners may contact Audi 's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 64H4.
Latest negative Audi Q3 car reviews
Latest positive Audi Q3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
I previously owned an A3 sedan followed by an A5 sport back prior to my Q3. To sum it all up, it's an otherwise wonderful premium vehicle. However, the 45 2 litre engine sounds extremely grainy at high RPM and the 8 speed transmission is what really lets this vehicle down. The shifting in higher gears is clunky and rough, and it gets even worse as it lurches through downshifts when braking. Everything else, however, is typical top-notch Audi. The interior is gorgeous and modern, with solid quality finishes and the baby Q8 design. In winter driving, while the Haldex AWD is not real 'Quattro', it performs extremely well in slippery conditions with barely any hesitation in kicking the other wheels into motion for seamless traction. My advice? Spring for the Q5 and enjoy the refinement that a real Audi should be known for.
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Vehicle year: 2020
This is a great car to have as a starter entry-level vehicle. While you may encounter some minor issues here and there, overall it's a nice drive.
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Vehicle year: 2023
We were on the hunt for a small SUV that had a sleek design, modern features, and was reasonably priced. Unfortunately, the two Benzes that Edmunds ranked higher among subcompact SUVs didn't meet our criteria for looking good, and the increasingly outdated Lexus NX didn't fit the bill for recent design. After comparing it to the X1 & RDX, we found that the Q3 was easily the best all-around package. However, my biggest complaint is how scarce they are, especially the S-line Premium Plus 45. I checked inventory levels at every Audi dealer in Texas, and only one of them had more than 7 in stock! It's worth noting that many of the Q3s sitting on dealer lots are Q3 40s, not Q3 45s, and for good reason. The 40s (in both Premium & Premium Plus guise) have a significantly less powerful engine: a mere 184 hp and a frankly slow-as-molasses 0-60 time of 8.6 seconds. I didn't even notice it myself until after we test-drove one. The 45s cost $2K more either way, and I *strongly* recommend them! (By the way, all of the S-line models have the larger engine.) I still have my 2016 S3, and the differences in technology between the two are amazing. The Q3 has a touchscreen interface for the latest version of its MMI system, and for the most part it's quite intuitive to use – along with having almost iPhone-level screen quality. (My S3, meanwhile, has a pop-up non-touchscreen with graphics in all of 16 colors.) I was extremely impressed with its adaptive cruise system along with its lane-keeping assistance; while it's not quite at autonomous-vehicle level, using both is extremely handy on long, monotonous drives. However, as some others have pointed out, its lack of certain features is curious, to say the least. If you opt for the Technology Package, Apple CarPlay only works wirelessly.The car lacks memory settings for the seats, which is surprising considering even the 2010 RDX had them. Additionally, it does not have a steering-wheel warmer or cooled seats, which are much needed in Texas. However, the Active Cockpit feature provides a 3-D view of the road ahead via built-in Google Maps, and you can use your phone's native navigation on the center screen. We opted for the 20-inch rims and the parking assistance package, as both of the smaller wheel packages looked dinky. Although we really wanted the Black Optic package, there were none available in the state except in the brashest exterior colors (orange & blue), and we already knew we wanted a gray one. Overall, it's a thoroughly modern car that's surprisingly fun to drive, much more so than the first-gen Q3 we looked at a few years back. It would be great if they introduced an SQ3 model in the US, as we only get the SQ5 & SQ7, but for some reason Audi only sells the SQ3 outside the US.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I'm so happy with my first Audi! The handling is top-notch and there's very little road noise. It's the perfect size for a small SUV, but I might upgrade to the Q5 for vacations or when my adult children are home. It's comfortable for long drives and comes with great features. Plus, it gets fantastic mileage and I haven't had any unexpected repairs. The acceleration and handling are excellent at all speeds. The only downside is that dealerships are offering less than I expected as I look to trade, but I think that's just par for the course with any car.
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Vehicle year: 2023
We bought an S Line Premium Plus and the vehicle runs great. However, we were a bit disappointed to find out that the memory seat and heated steering wheel are not included in the top trim or even available as an upgrade option.
Are you having problems with your Audi Q3?
General Marks 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2019
This car is a huge disappointment. The driving experience is not up to par with its price range. Despite having a Turbo4, the torque is lacking and the pedal has no feel. The 8-speed transmission is a waste and the shifting is sluggish. The car does not respond well to throttle input and downshifts too slowly. Even in sport mode, the performance is only slightly better. The tech features are overwhelming and confusing. Despite having leather seats and fancy tech, the car is not worth its $43K price tag. It is essentially a $20K car with added features. I would not recommend this car.
Bret Collier 2025-03-18
Vehicle year: 2024
The 10.1 MMI has some software bugs that may cause inconvenience. If you are looking for wireless Android Auto or CarPlay and a wireless charging pad, you may want to consider other options. The brakes may produce some noise, but Audi assures that they are functioning properly. The car may produce some noise when creating, which may not be ideal for some.
Carol Gorczany 2025-03-15
Vehicle year: 2020
I have owned an Audi A4 since 2009 and it has been a perfect car. However, with my kids growing up, I decided it was time to upgrade. To be honest, I was disappointed with the driving experience of the new vehicle. Despite the car's great looks, both inside and out, and the impressive tech, the transmission and overall driving experience were poor. The upshifts were inconsistent and jerky, and the downshifts were consistently jerky, especially at low gears. Even on the highway, the upshifts could be felt throughout the whole body. After reading several professional reviews, I realized that I was not the only one with this experience. Aaron Gold's Audi 2019 Q3 review in automobilemag.com accurately describes my feelings in more detail. I hope this review helps others make an informed decision before purchasing a car.
Branson Jerde 2025-03-03
Vehicle year: 2019
We are disappointed with our new 2019 Audi Q3. However, we are confident that Audi will address the issues we are experiencing. We have noticed some driving issues and a leaky roof that has affected the dome lights and phone plug-ins. We have found that this is a common issue with the ceiling console leaking during heavy rain. We have brought the car in for service and while the first attempt did not fully resolve the issue, we are confident that Audi will work with us to find a solution. We appreciate Audi's commitment to customer service and look forward to resolving this issue together.
Elmore Koelpin 2025-02-24
Vehicle year: 2020
I owned this car for about a month and I really wanted to love it. Let me start with what I liked. The tech is great, the stop/start cruise control is amazing and the lane control assist is helpful without being too intrusive. The blind spot monitoring is a standout feature that distinguishes itself from almost every other manufacturer and should be the standard for all such systems. It uses a large (~2Acceleration is brisk and fairly linear. The engine and transmission are paired brilliantly. The X1 is in a different class altogether and really puts the Q3 to shame. The X1 also has a more pleasant engine hum and exhaust note, while the Q3 just sounds harsh. The Q3 has fake exhausts, as in the exhaust is ported out below the bumper at about 45 degrees without going through the bumper as in the other style of (equally terrible) fake exhausts. When parked, exhaust would start to circulate through the car after a few minutes unless it was windy outside, which can be a bit uncomfortable. However, the Q3 is still a great car to relax in while you finish your podcast or audiobook. Although there's a lot of hard plastic, the interior appears sumptuous when looking at the dashboard or glancing at the seats. As you settle in, you may notice a few chintzy bits, like the flimsy plastic paddle shifters or the control stalks on the steering wheel, but overall, the Q3 is a great entry-level luxury car. Audi, please fix the transmission on this vehicle and then maybe we can talk.