Audi Q3 on Sri Lank's roads

by Pramod DE SILVA

Audi, the premium German carmaker, introduced its latest Q3 SUV to the local market last week at a glittering event at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre, through its local agent Senok Automobiles Private Ltd, a fully-owned subsidiary of Senok Trade Combine Ltd.

The Q3, the newest member of the Q Line of SUVs that include the Q5 and the Q7, is a sporty, efficient and versatile urban vehicle equally at home, on or off the road.

"The flagship brand of Senok Automobiles being Audi, has proven highly popular in Sri Lanka. Owned and manufactured by the German Automobile giant Volkswagen, it is a market leader among European cars. Its plush interior, sleek design and absolute comfort and safety make the Audi Q3 a very special driving experience. We are sure that the Q3 will find many homes in Sri Lanka," said Director of Audi Sri Lanka, Rajieve Fernando.

The Audi Q3 is the smallest SUV in the Audi range. Audi produces the Q3 near Barcelona, Spain, at a plant owned by SEAT, Volkswagen Group's Spanish subsidiary. The first cars rolled out of the production lines in June 2011.

The Q3 is immediately recognisable as the youngest member of the Audi family. The coupé-like lines are an expression of its sporty character. Sharp edges frame elegantly arched sheet metal surfaces, and distinctive lights accentuate the front and rear. The wedge-shaped headlights are available as a xenon plus version including LED daytime running lights.

There is a choice of two exterior packages and a number of new colours.

Fernando said that the Q3 offers ample room for five adult passengers and sets new standards for ergonomics and workmanship. If you have plenty of luggage, the luggage compartment of this compact SUV has a capacity of 460 litres which can be increased to 1,365 litres (48.20 cu ft) by folding down the split rear seat backs.

The engine line up for the Audi Q3 offers the choice of two TDI and two TFSI engines, with most duty-paying customers likely to opt for the 2.0 litre petrol models. The four-cylinder engines combine direct injection with turbo charging and a start-stop system. The Q3 2.0 TDI (diesel) with 103 kW (140 hp) and front-wheel drive averages 5.2 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (45.23 US mpg). The engines include 2.0 TFSI quattro with 125 kW (170 hp), 2.0 TFSI quattro with 155kW (211 hp), 2.0 TDI with 103 kW (140 hp) and a 2.0 TDI quattro with 130 kW (177 hp).