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Test drive: Feel the thrill with the Audi Q3 Sportback

DESPITE the current trend, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) aren't always inherently "sporty", as their performance doesn't always measure up to what comes to mind when you think of "sport".

Most SUVs in the market today hold the classification simply because of their design, which doubles as an excellent marketing gimmick.

What better disguise than to call them something hip and hot sounding than the often boring multipurpose vehicle (MPV) that is mostly associated with family-friendly space?

The Audi Q3 Sportback is a perfect example of what it means to be a true-blue modern SUV with actual performance backing. It comes with some trade-offs, but it is otherwise in the business to fulfil that taste for road and terrain mastery.

SPORTY BACK

Physically, the Audi Q3 Sportback has a more streamlined coupe-ish design element over the standard model, though very minor as it's just a little longer and flatter.

Complementing its S-Line exterior are 19-inch five-double arm style alloy wheels with MacPherson struts suspension at the front and multi-link rear, LED headlights with high beam assist and LED rear combination lamps.

The interior sees a multi functional three-spoke leather furnishing, flat bottomed steering wheel with shift paddles, a multi-coloured ambient lighting package, 12-way electric front leather seats with electric lumbar support, and two-zone climate control system.

The Audi virtual cockpit features a 10.25-inch HD display and the latest MMI infotainment system is accessible via an 8.8-inch display in the centre console — compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The safety highlights include Audi pre sense basic, lane change assist, and parking aid plus with rear view camera.

Where it greatly sets itself apart from the regular Q3 is a more powerful 2.0 turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI) engine that delivers 180hp and 320 Nm of torque.

This is paired to a seven-speed S Tronic gearbox and the brand's trademark Quattro permanent all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Adding to its driving prowess is the Audi drive select and progressive steering.

The Q3 Sportback can sprint from zero to 100kph in 7.8 seconds and has a top speed of 220kph.

The fuel tank capacity is at an estimated 60 litres with a combined consumption rated at 8.1L/100km. Luggage capacity is at 530 litres.

It has an on-the-road price of RM351,224 that includes a two-year manufacturer warranty and fees for inspection, number plate and hire purchase ownership claim.

NO DISTRACTIONS

From a design point of view, the Q3 Sportback is as Audi as it gets. The black diamond-design honeycomb grille is undoubtedly the main highlight of its otherwise simple-straight-yet-sporty curve design.

It is something that all Audi fans and those looking for a less bombastic flair for their drive will certainly appreciate.

The SUV's design seamlessly blends into its overarching silhouette, which adds to the appeal.

If you love the exterior, then you'll be right at home with the interior cabin because it is just as sporty inside as it is out, meaning that it has a very executive no-nonsense straightforward approach.

It is very comfortable and easy on the eyes. It is also spacious enough for a maximum of five people, inclusive of luggage.

Realistically, it can be bare for its price. It's not that it lacks in technology but you're not going to find a lot of additional features that its competitors may be offering.

The brand has always been about the drive and the performance doesn't disappoint. The engine is as quiet as it is powerful, transmission is smooth, and the weight and radius steer just right.

The Q3 Sportback doesn't feel too light or weighty. Even at high speeds, there's a good deal of balance with control and power.

The greatest enjoyment you'll get is the drive experience. It has the right amount of everything that you need for a great drive.

VERDICT

Let's say you are looking for something that shouts the price range. As RM350,000 is no small figure, whatever you're going to buy needs to shout value for money.

If the goal is to have an amazing drive experience, then the Q3 Sportback delivers.

If all you want to do is to make a statement, then you have to accept that the Q3 Sportback is all about the Audi brand and that quattro AWD in a sporty SUV.

Just you, the machine and the road with nothing else to distract you from it. This is its way and the reason why you'll love this SUV.

However, if you're shopping for a SUV that is big on personality with bigger offerings, then it is going to be hard to settle with what the Q3 Sportback offers.

There's little in the way of extras in the cabin for passengers other than comfort. Since it is also a luxury subcompact SUV, you're paying a premium for not having a third row of seats that many other SUVs seem to love to have.

This is arguably the best clean-cut SUV for its price range. It has none of the fats and gets straight down to the SUV business of sport.

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