New Audi Q3 Sportback: prices, specs and details

Audi unveiled the third-generation Q3 in June, but that introduction covered only the conventional SUV. Now comes the new, second-generation Q3 Sportback. Apparently, Audi needed until the Q3's second iteration to discover that it could lower the rear roof section and ask buyers to pay more.

Audi Q3 Sportback pricing and powertrains

The new Q3 SUV will arrive in September, with prices starting at £38,000 for the petrol model, £40,000 for the diesel and £45,800 for the plug-in hybrid. The Sportback will be offered with the identical engine range, although every version will carry a £1,500 premium over its SUV equivalent.

The range-opening TFSI petrol uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assistance, delivering 148bhp to the front wheels. The front-wheel-drive TDI produces the same 148bhp, but its 2.0-litre engine provides substantially more torque: 184lb ft for the petrol versus 266lb ft for the diesel.

Two more performance-focused petrol options are also available, both pairing a 2.0-litre turbo engine with quattro all-wheel drive. Outputs are 201bhp and 261bhp. The flagship PHEV is, however, the most powerful version overall, producing 268bhp when its 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor work together. Its 19.7kWh usable battery delivers an all-electric range of 72 miles (116km).

Lower-roofed Audi Q3 Sportback styling

Why choose the Sportback rather than the SUV? We couldn't tell you, although Audi says it “combines the strengths of an SUV with the aesthetics of a coupe”. Its roofline sits 29mm lower than that of the SUV, creating “an even sportier appearance and a faster silhouette”.

At the front, there is the new singleframe grille, accompanied by sophisticated LED lighting at both ends. The full-width rear light bar is only offered on certain trim levels, however. Depending on specification, buyers can choose from three suspension arrangements-standard, sport or adaptive-while wheel sizes span 18 to 20in (46 to 51cm).

Q3 Sportback interior and boot space

The cabin closely mirrors that of the Q3 SUV, albeit with marginally reduced headroom. A large 11.9in (30.2cm) digital instrument display and a 12.8in (32.5cm) infotainment touchscreen are housed within a single curved panel. Meanwhile, the gear selector has been relocated to a stalk behind the steering wheel, freeing additional room in the centre console.

There is welcome news for anyone determined to have the Sportback: as with the previous generation, its coupe-like roof does not reduce luggage capacity with every seat occupied. The SUV and Sportback each offer a 488-litre boot, or 375 litres in the PHEV, with the Sportback only conceding space once the rear bench is folded down.