2020 Audi Q3 Review

Name: 2020 Audi Q3 Review
Brand: Audi
Price: 20981 USD

2020 Audi Q3 Premium Plus 45 TFSI quattro 4dr SUV Exterior. European Model Shown.

2020 Audi Q3 S line Prestige 45 TFSI quattro 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

+63

The Q3's compact dimensions and fastback roofline drastically reduce the available space inside compared with other crossover SUVs. But pleasing performance, exceptional fit and finish, and standard all-wheel drive make it a lot easier to overlook the lack of space.

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2020 Audi Q3 Review

byMark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

Packed with modern technology features
Interior is lined with high-quality materials
Quiet cabin and comfortable ride quality
More passenger room than most subcompact SUVs

Cons

Lackluster fuel economy
Limited in-cabin storage
Not much fun to drive

What's new

No significant changes for 2020
Part of the second Q3 generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Looking for an affordable way to get a new Audi? The 2020 Q3 is a good way to go. It's not a particularly powerful SUV, but it's feature-packed and gives off a luxurious enough vibe. Standard features include items such as smartphone integration, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof and all-wheel drive. Want more? You can get the Q3 with premium features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure mitigation, and a fully digital gauge cluster display if you want.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Audi Q3 Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$238/mo

$179/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

Audi covers the small SUV basics well too. The Q3 is roomy for four adults and comfortable on the highway. The interior also impresses with solid construction and high-quality materials. The Q3's turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides sufficient power, but it does trail behind competitors in fuel economy, returning a disappointing EPA estimate of 22 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Those competitors include the BMW X1, the Mercedes-Benz GLB and the Volvo XC40. All are compelling rivals and offer certain advantages, such as sportier performance from the BMW or roomier seating from the GLB. Overall, though, the Q3 should easily satisfy.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.8

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the Q3 drive? The Q3 is more interested in delivering comfort than thrills. Our test Q3 reached 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is slightly slower than average for a luxury subcompact SUV. The eight-speed automatic transmission can also be a little slow to react when you're first leaving from a stop.

The Q3 is more energetic from a handling standpoint. It has responsive steering and stays composed when driving through high-speed curves. Altogether, everyday driving is crisp and comfortable, but if driving pleasure is important, you're better off with a BMW X2.

Comfort

8.0/10

How comfortable is the Q3? The Q3's ride quality is firm but not overly stiff. Bumps can be felt through the cabin but the Q3 quickly dispatches with them and doesn't make any excessive body motions. It's also pretty quiet since there's little outside noise, either from the tires or wind.

The optional S Line leather sport seats have a drop to them, almost like buckets. They provide eight-way adjustment to find the perfect position and four-way power lumbar for long trips. The controls are clearly labeled and well within reach. It takes a moment to adjust to the location of each button, but you don't have to fish through the infotainment system. Heated seats take a few minutes to warm up and never get as hot as others in the class.

Interior

8.0/10

How’s the interior? The Q3 has an accessible seating position that will meet the needs of most buyers. There's plenty of headroom up front and enough room for two adults to be comfortable in back. It's also pretty easy to see out of the Q3 thanks to big windows and a short hood.

The optional 10.1-inch touchscreen is responsive to the touch and offers a helpful clicking noise to let you know the command is registered. The buttons on the steering wheel and center console are clearly labeled.

Technology

9.0/10

How’s the tech? With the optional MMI navigation feature, the Q3 can operate Apple CarPlay wirelessly. It sometimes takes a minute to activate upon starting the car, but it's ultimately convenient. Navigation is simple to input and control, but the real star is the map itself, which offers a beautiful three-dimensional view.

All of the Q3's active driver safety features work well, but it can be tricky to get used to all the buttons and knobs required. Adaptive cruise control is mostly helpful, but if traffic abruptly slows, it will sometimes brake too late and prompt the driver to take over.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? The Q3 does the most with its limited cargo dimensions. There's a flat load floor and small compartments on either side to secure small bags, plus a security shade that can be removed to provide more space if needed.

A wireless charging pad and small grip between the cupholders are clever ways to store smartphones, but that's about it in the way of small-item storage. The rear door openings are wide enough to easily lean in and set up rear-facing car seats. The car seat anchors are simple to access, and there are three back anchors for overhead security.

Fuel Economy

6.0/10

How’s the fuel economy? A combined EPA rating of 22 mpg puts the Q3 near the bottom of its class since most entries rank in the mid-to-high 20s. The Q3 outperformed its rating on our 115-mile evaluation route, achieving 26.8 mpg. But in city driving or heavy traffic, it routinely failed to reach 20 mpg. Overall, we suspect you'll be able to match the EPA's estimate, even if it's not particularly great for the class.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Q3 a good value? No gaps, creaks or cheap plastics here. The surfaces inside the Q3 are tastefully put together and great to the touch, if a little bland. The S Line spices things up with natural wood and matte inlays. The Q3 is priced comparable to others in the class such as the BMW X2 and Cadillac XT4. Audi's warranties are similarly average for a luxury automaker.

Wildcard

6.5/10

You choose Audi because you know what to expect. The Q3 has a driving feel and styling language that is consistent with the brand yet wholly distinctive from other luxury automakers. The Q3 holds few surprises. But solid build quality, great infotainment and small personalized touches such as available ambient lighting give the crossover a hint of panache.

Which Q3 does Edmunds recommend?

Picking a Q3 is straightforward since it comes in three trim levels with just one available engine. Part of the Q3's appeal is its affordability, so it'll be tempting to just stick with the base Premium trim level. But consider going with the midlevel Premium Plus to get more advanced driver safety features plus some appealing extras.

2020 Audi Q3 models

The 2020 Q3 is offered in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. All Q3 models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque). It's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.

The Premium trim's feature highlights start with LED headlights, a power liftgate, three-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is also included.

Stepping up to the Premium Plus brings features such as keyless entry and ignition, front and rear parking sensors, a wireless charging pad, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.

The range-topping Prestige trim is loaded up with power-folding mirrors, adaptive cruise control, an automated parking system, a fully digital instrument panel, a premium sound system, a larger touchscreen and a navigation system, among other features.

Some of the Prestige's extra features are optional on the Premium Plus. An S Line appearance package is available on Premium and Premium Plus models (and standard on the Prestige) and includes upgraded wheels and some exterior styling flourishes.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above Average

#13 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Audi Q3 from 2008-2022.}

$625/yr

vs. $559/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1.66x/yr

vs. 1.23x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

9.5%

vs. 8.6%
for Average Luxury Compact SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Audi Q3.

5 (50%)

4 (14%)

3 (7%)

2 (11%)

1 (18%)

3.7

28 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 28 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

I liked it on paper and in my test drive

Karen, 08/16/2020

2020 Audi Q3 Prestige S line 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

I went down the black hole of car reviews for two years or more. I buy cars outright then keep them for a very long time. I owned my last two for 15 years each. I really like the all wheel drive and blind spot monitor. The seats are a little firm but comfortable, visibility is good, the back seat is built for adults and there is plenty of door pocket storage and the trunk is a good size. … The a/c works well, I like the ability to change the dash display depending on my needs, plus it's fun to drive with enough pick-up to merge easily, and sticks on the corners with the all wheel drive. I've been pleasantly surprised at how stable it feels in a turn and on snow. It also doesn't lean much in the corners. The cons are I still haven't gotten my Android Auto to send my voice texts and no one at Audi can tell me how to do it short of "just plug it in". I've found neither the sales staff or IT department at the dealership can help solve those problems as they seem only to know the basics. For instance, my email address changed and no one could tell me how to update it in the car. I've had more luck with Audi USA IT department, (to update: the son of a salesman straightened out my Android Auto. It will text and make phone calls which is not as nice as the full service function but works well enough for me and saves the $400 per year fee). The 6 month Audi Connect service touted in all the advertising, which works as one would expect (permitting you to reply and create text messages and emails by voice, reading text and emails to you, make calls, find a restaurant, etc,) expires the Android system will connect to Google Maps but nothing else. I was assured Android Auto would work with the same functionality as my phone...but it does not. I'd like to see the interface between the technology work much better. I think the Apple link is better. It is surprising not to have memory seats in a premium model car, considering my 2003 Saab has them. It would have been nice to have a heated steering wheel option, and the manual seems to be made for every Q3 on the planet so it takes a while to figure out what your car comes equipped with and what is doesn't and is confusing. My final criticism is I don't know if the automatic lift gate has a sensor to stop it when closing if my arm is in the way. I've been too chicken to test it. My enjoyment, however, far outweighs my complaints, and I find I look forward to hopping into my car as I've gotten to know it over the past year. I feel much safer with electronic eyes keeping a lookout as well as mine, although keep in mind they are not infallible. All in all, it's a user friendly car and I think I'll give 5 stars as soon as I get more of my Android Auto functions untangled. Finally, I live in a city with lots of pot holes and sharp objects on the street. I got the tire and wheel 60 month warranty and it's one of the best things I did as I've had to replace 2 tires already ($400 each retail). Update: I've gotten the Android link to work quite well. Once I'm plugged in, I can ask Google to find a gas station, send a text, call a number, navigate to xxxx, etc. I need to be sure my phone is unlocked for it to work is the only step to remember. Very useful.

Love our Q3

CapeOKW56, 01/20/2020

2020 Audi Q3 Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

We've had our 2020 Q3 for a couple of months and it is certainly a step up from our previous Fords. It rides and handles extremely well, just rock solid, and has plenty of power around town and on the highway. The tech is outstanding and the B&O sound system is awesome. As for the gas mileage, don't believe the negative numbers. Our salesman told us that Audi underestimates the mileage …

2020 Q3 is great

Marylander, 01/09/2021

2020 Audi Q3 Premium Plus S line 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

We got this 2020 Q3 certified pre-owned with low miles at a great price from Audi Hunt Valley. While it is not quick (like an A4) it accelerates when you need it. This vehicle feels solid on the road and has alot of room behind the back seat for cargo. My wife was not a big fan of the Q3 because we had looked at one in 2017 and found it too small and underpowered. Now, she wants this …

Q3 very nice vehicle

Sandra, 03/01/2020

2020 Audi Q3 Prestige S line 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

We have had our 2020 Q3 for 2 weeks now. So far we are very pleased with our choice of the Q3. We purchased the Prestige model. The reason for not giving this vehicle 5 stars as I really think the Prestige model should have been equipped with memory seats and Audi Connect for emergencies. We discovered just before our purchase that this vehicle was lacking those two items which we …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Audi Q3, so we've included reviews for other years of the Q3 since its last redesign.

See all 28 reviews of the Audi Q3

Write a vehicle review

2020 Q3 Highlights

Trim:

Premium

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$34,700
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$238/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	23.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Q3 models:

Audi Pre Sense Front: Warns if a front collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time.
Audi Side Assist: Notifies the driver if a vehicle is lurking in a blind spot. Includes lane departure warning as well.
Top View Camera: Provides a top-down 360-degree view of the Q3 that makes parking maneuvers easier. Included with the Prestige trim level.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.4%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2020 Audi Q3 Review

2020 Audi Q3 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Audi Q3 Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Q3 does Edmunds recommend?

2020 Audi Q3 models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

I liked it on paper and in my test drive

Love our Q3

2020 Q3 is great

Q3 very nice vehicle

2020 Q3 Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Audi Q3 Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}