2009 Audi Q3 Preview

A very good preview, for the next Audi sports SUV is the concept Cross Coupe. Where previously concepts on this theme, like the Steppenwolf were far from a production version, the Cross Coupe looks pretty much market ready. The design is a lot more conventional and it can be easily assimilated to the rest of the Audi range.

As the Cross Coupe is based on the current Audi A3 (which is mostly a VW Golf V) it is expected that the production version of the Q3 will share its platform with the Volkswagen Golf VI. Many components will be therefore borrowed from the “organ donor”, such as the DSG dual-clutch transmission or the highly appreciated 2.0l TFSI engine. Also expected are a 3.0 V6 turbo diesel with over 200 bhp and a 3.6l V6 FSI with 300 bhp for the top of the range, Q3S.

The Q3 will be build on Audi’s new MLP (Modular Longitudinal Platform) platform, the same platform which will be a feature of future A4, A5 & A6 and A8 models.

As the rest of the vehicles based on the Golf VI, the Q3 will be offered in both FWD & AWD. Gadgets such as height-adjustable suspension, lockable differentials or low-range gearing will not be available for the Q3, due to cost reduction measures. Such technologies will remain only for the more expensive Audis Q5 and Q3.

The computer generated images we bring to your attention, are an approximation on how the Audi Q3 will turn out, and are based on the latest information available, on the current design tendencies of the Audi brand and on other sources.

When the new Q3 will go on sale in 2009, it will be a strong competitor for the Land Rover Freelander, BMW X3 and Volkswagen Tiguan. The Q3 will go on sale at a price of 27500 euro (the price from Germany, arround $37000), meaning 5000 euro less than the BMW X3.

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History

2007 Audi Cross Coupe quattro Concept

At the Shanghai Motor Show Audi unveiled a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort in a manner that is typical of Audi. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro: a car whose visual appearance clearly tells you what it is capable of and whose engineering matches this standard – on all roads, under all conditions.

The transversely installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors is a completely new development. With power output of 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, it gives the vehicle a sporty performance and a surprising degree of efficiency. On average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 km. The diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system reduce soot and nitric oxide emissions effectively. Even today, the Audi Cross Coupé quattro satisfies the emissions standards of the future.

The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is a matter of course on an Audi with offroad potential. A Haldex clutch ensures that traction is precisely distributed according to the situation. The sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes gearshifts in a matter of milliseconds.

Numerous electronic systems support the driver. The Audi drive select system makes it possible to preselect three highly individual configurations for the engine, gearbox, steering and adaptive shock absorbers. The result: a car that can be enjoyed in three completely different ways.

Besides the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport" setting, the Audi Cross Coupé also has the "efficiency" driving program. Here, the engine map and the shift points are modified to support a particularly economical driving style. In addition, the system deactivates components that are particularly energy-hungry, for example the air-conditioning compressor.

Another innovation is the MMI control panel, which is operated by a touch pad. The monitor of the system employs, for the first time, dual-view technology. The system can produce different images for the driver and front-seat passenger. These images are only visible when viewed from a specific angle. This allows the driver to read data from the on-board computer while the front passenger watches a TV programme, listening to the sound through headphones.

Competitors