Audi Q2 vs Q3 – SUV comparison

If you’re looking for a premium SUV that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, both the Audi Q2 and Audi Q3 are great options. The Q2 is smaller and less practical, but represents good value for money compared with other small upmarket SUVs, while the Audi Q3 is more practical and modern. Our expert reviews team is here to guide your decision.

In this article we will cover the following:

• Audi Q2 vs Q3 styling
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 interior
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 driving
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 engines
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 safety and reliability
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 price and running costs
• Audi Q2 vs Q3 verdict: which is better

Audi Q2 vs Q3 styling

Usually, Audi models look very similar to each other but, in the case of the Q2 and Q3, there are more obvious differences. The Q2’s front end is dominated by the usual hexagonal Audi grille featuring a thick frame and flanked by flat headlights. The Q3, on the other hand, gets much more angled, interestingly shaped headlights and a wider grille giving it bolder features overall.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 interior

The Audi Q2’s interior is really starting to show its age, with a small infotainment display on top of the dashboard, though a digital instrument display does modernise things a bit. The Q3 looks much more up to date with its larger, neatly integrated infotainment display, while the removal of the rotary dial that controls the screen frees up space for cupholders in the Q3.

Overall, the Audi Q3 has the nicest interior, and it’s better equipped as well. You’ll pay a premium for it however, and the Q2’s cabin is still nicely built.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 driving

The Q2 is only available with front-wheel drive. Adaptive suspension comes as standard and drive select modes let you choose between comfort, efficiency or sportiness. S Line models get sport suspension that’s a bit less comfortable but makes the car lower to the ground, offering a marginal improvement in driving fun.

The Q3 can also be chosen in front or four-wheel drive configurations, and can be had with adaptive suspension. However, the S Line trim may be a bit too harsh for some. Nevertheless, the Q3 handles well enough on country roads, feeling secure and stable. If it’s fun you’re after though, you’ll be better off with something like a BMW X3.

Neither car is a born off-roader, so we’d advise against paying extra for four-wheel drive unless you really need it – the front-wheel drive variants provide more than enough grip for all-season on-road duties.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 engines

The Audi Q2 is offered with a choice of two petrol engines with power outputs of 116hp and 150hp. Both are available with a six-speed manual gearbox, but the more powerful version is also offered with a seven-speed automatic.

The Audi Q3 doesn’t get the lower-powered petrol, but you have the same 150hp option here with both manual and automatic transmissions. Two more petrols are available with 190hp and 245hp, with both only offered as all-wheel drive.

Diesel is a good option for those who do long distances, and the Q3 has two choices here – a front-wheel drive version with 150hp and an all-wheel drive option with 193hp, the former being the ideal choice for long-distance drivers.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 safety and reliability

Both the Audi Q3 and Audi Q2 scored the maximum five stars in their latest Euro NCAP safety tests, so you can rest assured that you and your occupants will be protected in the event of an accident.

As for reliability, there are no horror stories to report with either of these cars. All Audi models come with a three-year warranty, with unlimited mileage for the first two years and a 60,000-mile limit in the final year, so any faults that crop up in this time should be dealt with free of charge.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 price and running costs

As the smaller car, it’s no surprise that the Audi Q2 costs less. At the time of writing, prices start just below £30,000, which makes it more affordable than similar alternatives such as the Mercedes GLA.

It’s not a huge jump to the Audi Q3, which starts at around £35,000, which is similar to the likes of the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40.

If you want to keep running costs low then stick to one of the lower-powered front-wheel drive models, and if you do big motorway miles then the diesel will likely cost less in the long run.

Audi Q2 vs Q3 verdict: Which is better?

Deciding between the Audi Q2 and Q3 largely comes down to how much space you need and what your budget is. The Q3 is the better car overall – it has a more modern and practical interior, more stylish exterior and a wider choice of engines. However, if you don’t need the space then the Q2 still has a well-built cabin and represents pretty good value for money.

Audi Q2 alternatives

If you like the idea of the Audi Q2 but want to consider the alternatives, the Volkswagen T-Roc is a very similar car in size and shape, and although it doesn’t quite have the same badge appeal, it’s still stylish and practical. You could also consider the Mini Countryman, which is a bit bigger and has a cool cabin. Or, if you’re willing to give an electric car a go, the Volvo EX30 is a similar price and has much lower running costs if you can charge at home.

Audi Q3 alternatives

There are plenty of alternatives to the Audi Q3, too. The Mini Countryman and BMW X1 could also be considered alongside the Q3, while the Volvo XC40 is another premium SUV that’s a similar size and price. The forthcoming Peugeot 3008 could also be considered – although the badge doesn’t scream premium, the interior is fantastic.Are you looking to change your car? Then head over to carwow. You can sell your car, and get great offers on a new model from our trusted dealers, all from the comfort of your home. Tap the button below to get started.