The production-ready Audi Q3 will break cover at the
Shanghai Motor Show that runs from 21-28 April.
Based on the Volkswagen Tiguan platform, the Q3 is set to go on sale towards the end of 2011. Its styling is related to the Cross Coupé concept Audi displayed at the Shanghai show in 2007, which received a very keen welcome.
The Audi Q3 could be a direct rival to the MINI Countryman. Engines for the Q3 will be drawn from the Tiguan line-up, so will include a 140bhp 1.4, 180bhp 1.8 and 210bhp 2.0-litre, all petrol. There will also be turbodiesels with 141- and 167bhp, with a 210bhp turbodiesel also thought to be in development for launch at a later date.
Production of the Audi Q3 will take place at SEAT's factory near Barcelona, strengthening rumours the Spanish firm will build its own version of the Q3 based on the styling of its IBX concept from the recent
Geneva Motor Show.
Alisdair Suttie - 8 Apr 2011