Q3

Make
Audi
Segment
SUV

Although it debuted online last summer, it wasn't until today did we get a chance to view the US market 2019 Audi Q3 in the flesh. Making its American debut appearance here at this year's New York Auto Show, the all-new Q3 aims to pick up where its highly successful predecessor left off and then some. More dynamic looking than before, the new Q3 will carry a starting price of $34,700 for the base Premium trim.

And yes, that is more expensive than the outgoing model, specifically by $2,000. The second two trim levels are Premium Plus, and Prestige, which begin at $37,800 and $42,900, respectively. These prices exclude the $995 destination fee.

However, all trims come powered by the same 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a total of 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque – a total of 28 hp and 51 lb-ft more than the previous model. Expect a 0-62 mph time of seven seconds. All-wheel drive, obviously, is standard (it's an Audi, after all), and the sole gearbox is an eight-speed automatic.

A total of five drive modes are there for drivers: Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Offroad, and Individual. Some standard features include LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels, aluminum exterior trim, roof rails, a 10.25-inch gauge cluster display, 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Standard safety includes automatic emergency braking and, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control are optional. As the competition heats up in the premium compact crossover segment, the redesigned Audi Q3 is heading into battle fully prepared to tackle the likes of the BMW X1 and X2, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and the also completely redesigned Range Rover Evoque. Sales are expected to get underway in the very near future. And yes, chances are Audi is already at work on a more powerful SQ3.