Quattro all-wheel drive, Sonos premium sound system standard across all trims; MMI panoramic display included as standard; 258.3-horsepower 2.0-liter TFSI engine

Audi's premium compact SUV, the new Audi Q3 [Audi Korea]
Audi's premium compact SUV, the new Audi Q3 [Audi Korea]

Audi Korea announced Tuesday it is officially launching the third-generation premium compact SUV, the new Audi Q3, in South Korea.

The new model's standout feature is its differentiated baseline specification for the segment: Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, a Sonos premium sound system and an MMI panoramic display all come standard across every trim.

The company said a newly designed body proportion and aerodynamic styling give the vehicle a sportier presence, while a more spacious interior layout strengthens both practicality and premium feel.

Every trim of the new Q3 is powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline direct-injection turbocharged engine producing 258.3 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system, balancing efficiency with driving dynamics. The vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 5.9 seconds.

Adaptive cruise assist plus, park assist plus with trained parking, and a 360-degree surround-view camera are all included as standard equipment.

On the design front, the front fascia features Audi's new 2D rings and a large single-frame grille. The LED headlights plus and LED taillights pro incorporate front and rear dynamic turn signals along with three selectable headlight signatures. Advanced lighting technology introduced on higher-segment models, together with illuminated Audi rings, further reinforces the vehicle's progressive design identity.

Audi's premium compact SUV, the new Audi Q3 [Audi Korea]
Audi's premium compact SUV, the new Audi Q3 [Audi Korea]

The S line model emphasizes a sporty character with an S line exterior package, sport suspension and red brake calipers, while the Black Edition model adds a black package comprising black side mirrors, a black roof rail, window molding and bumper inserts for a more distinctive look.

Inside, the MMI panoramic display — a curved, driver-oriented unit combining an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit plus and a 12.8-inch MMI touch display — heightens immersion in the cabin.

All trims also come standard with a Sonos premium sound system (12 speakers, 420 watts), three-zone automatic climate control, front-seat laminated glass and a heated steering wheel, delivering class-leading comfort and cabin quietness.

The new Audi Q3 is offered in four trims: Advanced, S line, S line Black Edition and Sportback S line. Prices, including VAT and based on an individual consumption tax rate of 3.5 percent, start at 60.8 million won (about $39,300) for the Advanced, 63.74 million won for the S line, 64.72 million won for the S line Black Edition and 67.67 million won for the Sportback S line.

Meanwhile, Audi Korea plans to expand its footprint in the South Korean market by accelerating the launch schedules of the new Q7 and Q9 alongside the recently released new Audi A6 midsize sedan and the new Q3.


likehyo85@heraldcorp.com