The Audi Q3 offers a range of features across its trim levels, catering to different preferences and needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the differences between the top-tier Premium Plus trim and the base Premium trim, focusing on various aspects such as performance, exterior design, interior features, technology, and safety.
Performance and Powertrain
Engine and Power Output
The Premium and Premium Plus trims of the Audi Q3 come with two engine options: the 40 TFSI and the 45 TFSI
Base Trim (40 TFSI Premium):
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
- Power output: 184 horsepower at 4,800 RPM
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: approximately 8.9 seconds
Top Trim (45 TFSI S line Premium Plus):
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
- Power output: 228 horsepower at 6,000 RPM
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: approximately 7.3 seconds
The top trim offers a significant boost in power, providing a more spirited driving experience than the base model.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Both trims feature:
- Eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission
- Quattro all-wheel drive system
The higher horsepower in the top trim allows for more responsive acceleration and better overall performance, especially in diverse driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Base Trim (40 TFSI Premium):
- City: 10.7 L/100km
- Highway: 8.1 L/100km
- Combined: 9.4 L/100km
Top Trim (45 TFSI S line Premium Plus):
- City: 11.8 L/100km
- Highway: 8.4 L/100km
- Combined: 10.2 L/100km
The base trim offers slightly better fuel efficiency due to its lower power output.
Exterior Design and Features
- Base Trim (Premium):
18-inch 5-Y-spoke design wheels
All-season tires
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
18-inch 5-V-spoke-S design wheels
All-season tires
The top trim features a sportier wheel design, enhancing the vehicle’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Exterior Styling
- Base Trim (Premium):
Standard Audi Q3 styling
- Top Trim (Premium Plus with S line):
S line exterior styling package
Full-paint finish
More aggressive front and rear bumpers
S line badging
The S line package on the top trim gives the Q3 a more dynamic and sporty appearance, setting it apart from the base model.
Lighting
- Base Trim (Premium):
Full LED headlights with unique DRL signature
LED taillights with dynamic turn signals
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
It has the same LED headlights and taillights as the base trim
LED interior lighting plus package for enhanced ambient lighting
While both trims feature advanced LED lighting, the top trim offers additional interior ambient lighting options for a more premium feel.
Other Exterior Features
Both trims include:
- Power-adjustable, heated exterior side mirrors
- Aluminum roof rails
- Power tailgate
- Power panoramic sunroof
The top trim adds a memory function for the driver’s side mirror and a hands-free power tailgate for convenience.
Interior Features and Comfort
Seating
- Base Trim (Premium):
Leather seat surfaces
Heated front seats
Manual adjustment for front seats
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
Leather seat surfaces
Heated front seats
Memory function for driver’s seat
Power adjustment for front seats
The top trim offers enhanced comfort and convenience with memory and power adjustment features for the driver’s seat.
Interior Trim and Design
- Base Trim (Premium):
Standard interior trim
- Top Trim (Premium Plus with S line):
Aluminum S line door sills, illuminated
Sport contour three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles
The S line elements in the top trim create a more upscale and sporty interior ambiance.
Climate Control
Both trims feature:
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade
Cargo Space
Both trims offer the same cargo capacity:
- 48.0 cubic feet with rear seats folded
- Versatile 40/20/40 split-folding rear seatbacks
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment System
- Base Trim (Premium):
MMI touch system with 8.8-inch touchscreen display
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
Audi smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Voice control system
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
- Optional Technology package available, which includes:
Larger 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus
MMI Navigation plus
Audi connect PRIME & PLUS
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The top trim, with the optional Technology package, offers a more advanced and larger digital cockpit with enhanced navigation and connectivity features.
Audio System
- Base Trim (Premium):
10-speaker Audi sound system
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
10-speaker Audi sound system
Optional premium sound system available
Connectivity and Charging
- Base Trim (Premium):
USB ports for data and charging
Bluetooth connectivity
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
All features of the base trim
Wireless phone charging pad
Audi phone box (signal booster and wireless charger)
The top trim offers more advanced charging options and improved phone connectivity.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Standard Safety Features (Both Trims)
- Audi pre sense front (forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking)
- Audi pre sense basic
- High beam assist
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Rearview camera
- Parking system plus (front and rear acoustic sensors)
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
- Base Trim (Premium):
Audi side assist with pre sense rear
Lane departure warning
Adaptive cruise control with stop & go
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
All features of the base trim
Top view camera system
Park Assist (automatic parking assistance)
Adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance (more advanced than the base trim’s system)
The top trim offers a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, enhancing safety and convenience.
Convenience Features
Keyless Entry and Start
- Base Trim (Premium):
Standard key fob
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
Audi advanced key with hands-free power tailgate release
Interior Lighting
- Base Trim (Premium):
Standard interior lighting
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
LED interior lighting plus package for enhanced ambient lighting
Mirror Features
- Base Trim (Premium):
Manual-dimming rearview mirror
- Top Trim (Premium Plus):
Auto-dimming rearview mirror with digital compass
Auto-dimming, power-folding exterior mirrors with memory
Which Audi Q3 Trim Is For You?
The Audi Q3 offers a compelling package in its base Premium and top-tier Premium Plus trims. While the Premium trim provides a well-equipped luxury compact SUV experience, the Premium Plus trim, especially when optioned with the S line package and Technology package, elevates the Q3 to a higher performance, style, and technology level.
Key differences in the top trim include:
1- More powerful engine option (228 hp vs 184 hp)
2- Enhanced exterior styling with S line elements
3- Advanced interior features like memory seats and ambient lighting
4- More comprehensive infotainment and driver assistance technologies
5- Additional convenience features, such as hands-free tailgate and wireless charging
Ultimately, the choice between the two trims will depend on individual preferences for performance, technology, and luxury features. The base Premium trim offers excellent value for those seeking a premium compact SUV experience, while the Premium Plus trim caters to enthusiasts desiring more power, advanced tech, and a sportier aesthetic.
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