Audi to launch Q3 S base variant on August 19 in India

The festive season is around the corner and with it comes an array of new car launches. Audi seems to be heading the band wagon with the launch of its more affordable, Q3 S entry-level SUV. The car is likely to be priced around Rs 25 lakh and will target its German compatriot’s hatchback offerings like the B-Class and the BMW X1.

The cut price Q3 S will do away with a few Audi standard equipment in an effort to bring a more value proposition to the table. The most obvious feature to get the axe is the Quattro four-wheel drive setup and automatic gear box. What will take its place is a front-wheel drive unit along with a more basic six-speed manual transmission. Power will be derived from the standard 2.0-litre TDI but at a lower state of tune, now producing close to 140PS as compared to the standard 179PS.

Aesthetically, the Q3 S will replicate the standard Q3 and will feature leather seats, climate control and the Audi multimedia unit. The car will ride on 18-inch alloy wheels and will weigh considerably lesser than the Q3. This weight loss clubbed with the detuned engine will likely make the Q3 S a more efficient SUV within the luxury segment. There won’t be too many changes to the exteriors, but there are rumours that the Q3 S will lose the trademark day-time running lamps.

Audi aims to introduce a twist to the tale with a very competitively priced SUV in the segment that is dominated by luxury hatchbacks. The possibility of buying an SUV over a hatch can be a tempting one for a number of aspiring buyers and so it will be interesting to see how the story unfolds after the vehicle is officially launched.