Audi has introduced its first plug-in hybrid compact SUVs in the form of the new Audi Q3 45 TFSI e and Audi Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI e models.
The electrified Audi SUVs, which are available to order from Spring 2021, mate a four-cylinder 1.4 TFSI petrol engine with a permanently excited synchronous electric motor for a combined 242bhp and claimed 31 miles of electric-only range.
According to Audi, both variants generate 295 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, allowing the SUVs to sprint 0-62mph in 7.3sec with a top speed of 130mph.
Several driving modes will be offered: in the main ‘Auto-Hybrid’ mode.the electric motor supports the engine when overtaking and accelerating from low speeds.In EV only mode both cars can cover 31 miles at speeds of up to 87mph, says Audi.
Additional ‘Battery Hold’ and ‘Battery Charge’ modes either maintain or top up the battery, while Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual profiles allow the driver to fine tune the SUVs’ steering, engine and transmission response.
Four trim options are on offer for the Q3, spanning Technik, S line, Black Edition and the range-topping Vorsprung specification options. The coupé-inspired Q3 Sportback can be selected with all of these except the Technik.
Audi has yet to reveal pricing for the new Q3 45 TFSI e and Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI e models, saying only that this will be confirmed closer to launch.
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At least we managed to avoid the predictable snidy tax dodger digs by those with envy they don't get a company car. Some progress I suppose.
I agree with Leegilbert, the Outlander at least was limited by the technology of the time and a chassis despite their claims was all new and electrification designed, but was clearly a bodge about of an old chassis (packaging was consequently quite poor with a lot of wasted spaces but it got away with it as it was so big anyway).
Audi have had a long time since to come up with something much better, this is just the minmum effort to keep low CO2 fleet sales rolling. A compromised 380L boot and a cost of 47K Euros according to other places doesn't really do much for the game.
When was the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV released? 2013-14, wow how things have moved on since... oh wait..
Certainly havent for Mitsubishi, if they could turn the lights off before leaving europe that would be good