First Drive: 2012 Audi Q3

The Q3's chiseled, loudmouth front grille is flanked by a pair of eyes with the brand's trademark LED light pipes as mascara. Out back the theme continues with red taillamps, a wraparound tailgate, and a strongly sloped rear windshield.


Inside, Audi's cabin materials show no signs of cheapening. The real aluminum knurled knobs for the A/C temperature feel more finely engineered than those in a Rolls-Royce. The seats are solid (in a good way), and the instruments and ergonomics are as near faultlessly clear as you can find. An optional interior light package adds more LED flavor to the borders of the speaker grilles and cupholders.


Once it's underway, there are no arguments with the Q3's heart-of-market 211-hp turbo four. All the Q3's engines are quieter and smoother than they are in other transverse Audis. The turbocharger puts its shoulder to the wheel right through the working rev range, and the twin-clutch unit backs it up with prompt shifts, either in the auto range or when you call for them on the little paddles.