Quick Facts
- Original starting price: $35,095 (including a $1,095 destination fee)
- Class: Luxury Subcompact SUV
- Competitors: Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, Lexus UX
- KBB.com Fair Purchase Price
Introduction
Now in its second generation, the 2021 Audi Q3 plays in the luxury subcompact SUV segment. Bringing innovative technology, a beautifully fit interior, and a bold design, the 2021 Q3 stands tall as a 2020 Best Buy Award winner in a strong class with the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Lexus UX.
The smallest and least-expensive sport utility vehicle in Audi’s portfolio, the Q3 separates itself with a long list of standard features and all-wheel drive (AWD). Though it uses only one powertrain, the 2021 Q3 is moderately peppy and feels as luxurious and refined as its larger siblings, the Q5 and Q8.
OEM CPO Warranty Program Highlights
- Limited Warranty: One year/20,000 miles after the expiration of the original new-car warranty or at the time of used car purchase
- Powertrain Warranty: Included within the Limited Warranty
- Roadside Assistance: Unlimited and for the duration of the Limited warranty
- Non-transferrable
- Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Audi
Key Competitors
KBB Review Highlights
Refreshed in 2019, the Q3 brings a more streamlined trim lineup for 2021 and an enhanced interior. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the 8-speed automatic is an entertaining drive. Manual shift mode hints at a sporty heritage, and Audi’s Quattro AWD is standard. The combination produces an EPA rating of 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined, which is moderate in its class.
With a roomier and better-configured cabin, the Q3 has more space than the Lexus UX and an interior that encourages the drive. Supple leather upholstery with neat contrast stitching runs throughout the vehicle. Leg space is still a prized commodity, but a sliding second-row seat improves the space, even for tall bodies, and the angle of the roof increases headroom for rear passengers.
A center-dash-mounted 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen draws the eye into this second-generation vehicle and breaks up the fluid lines of the front cabin. The Q3’s connectivity suite is well-equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 4 USB ports, a 10-speaker audio system, and Apple Car/Andriod Auto compatibility. The central stack is refreshingly equipped with buttons and an available wireless charger. Despite its entry-level price point, the interior feels premium and mature, with a handsome edge.
It’s a nice balance against the functionally beautiful exterior. Anchored lower for 2021, the wider opening doors and more aggressive styling are standard. Subtle sheet metal catches the light, and broad wheel arches house big wheels. A clean, classy grille bridges the front to butt against sharply angled lines that end at the LED headlights, and an integrated rear spoiler rounds out the look.
Elevated details are where the 2021 Audi Q3 shines. Beautiful leather, a power tailgate, 8-way power front seats with lumbar support, and a panoramic sunroof craft a story in the base model that reads pure luxury in a petite package. The optional 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit, a larger touchscreen, MMI touchpad, and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system in the upper trims add a touch of high-tech elegance and enhance the in-vehicle experience.
Enhanced safety and convenience features become more prevalent across the 4 model lines, particularly in the upper trims. The snazzy parking assist guides your path and assists in parallel and perpendicular parking. A top-view camera, adaptive cruise control, rear-side airbags, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert appear as factory options.
With four available models, ranging from the gateway Premium to the top-of-the-line S-line Premium Plus, the 2021 Audi Q3 is a high-tech, luxuriously appointed option in the luxury subcompact SUV space.
See Kelley Blue Book’s Expert Review of the 2021 Audi Q3
If you’re ready to shop, see certified pre-owned 2021 Audi Q3 models
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