• Typical Audi design and quality
• Lots of standard features included
• User-friendly and comfortable

How is the quality and layout?

The Audi Q3 lives up to its maker’s reputation for producing car interiors that are built to last and filled with high-quality materials. And yet it doesn’t quite match the standards of the Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque. They’re not necessarily better built, but the materials used look and feel plusher, and they’re nicer places to spend time than the rather dour Audi.

The Q3’s dashboard is clean and well laid out. The 10.1-inch infotainment system display dominates proceedings, both visually and because so many of the car’s functions are controlled through it. Lower down, there’s a row of buttons and knobs for the climate control, and other secondary controls are sprinkled around the centre console. It’s quite an old-school layout, but we think it’s more user-friendly than some more recent cars in which even the switches for the lights are on screens.

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Infotainment and tech

We’ve come to expect a decent level of technology in all Audi models, and the Q3 is no exception. There are no analogue instruments, a 10.25-inch version of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display taking the place of the traditional speedo and rev-counter, even on entry-level Sport models.

The screen is fully customisable and works in conjunction with the central touchscreen. We found the natural language voice control system and real time navigation routing are pretty effective; a Wi-Fi hotspot, SIM card slot and Google Earth mapping all feature, as well.

The Q3’s infotainment system looks good and is easy to navigate around. The screen is a bit low down for using while driving, though. Some of our testers noted they had to take their eyes of the road a fraction longer than is desirable. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are included; a wireless phone charger is on the options list.

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Comfort

• Generally a comfortable car
• Reclining seats for rear passengers
• Some models have noticeably firmer suspension

Generally speaking, the Audi Q3’s interior is a very comfortable place to spend time. The seats are very supportive and they’re firmness didn’t elicit any complaints from our testers. There’s a wide range of adjustment in the driver’s seat and steering wheel so pretty much anyone can find a driving position that suits. Electrically adjustable front seats with lumbar support are available from the options list and we think they’re worth investing in.

Rear passengers aren’t forgotten either. The seats are perfectly comfortable and they recline. Not only does reclining add to the comfort, it’s better for sleeping, as well.

Ride quality is a bit of a mixed bag. Sport models have smaller wheels and softer suspension, which translates to a nice, smooth ride. S Line and Black Edition models have bigger wheels and firmer suspension that can produce a jiggling, sometimes crashy ride.

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