After witnessing the subtle yet well executed exterior changes I took a dekko inside the Q3 S Edition. A number of features were found missing, but, initially at least, it was difficult to point out the missing bits. I did figure it out eventually, though. To bring the costs down Audi have replaced the dual-zone climate control with a more common setup that you may find in a Volkswagen Polo. The sunroof is gone, faux wood is replaced by plastic trim, the beige theme has given way to a racier and sportier black one, and the steering wheel is different. The rest of the cabin remains mostly unchanged. It may be a cabin that is less equipped, but the quality of material, the leather, the plastic, the fit-and-finish and the space are absolutely high-class. The Q3 S Edition also retains most of its connectivity features and steering-mounted controls, so even the nerds can enjoy it as well.
Let’s now consider the drivetrain. Instead of introducing a smaller engine in the Q3 S Edition, Audi decided to retain the 2.0-litre TDi engine, though in a de-tuned state. It may produce lesser power (140 PS) and torque (320 Nm) than a standard Q3, but that is not a deterrent when it comes to performance and driveability. This refined engine can still kick some serious backside. Performance testing revealed that it needs just 11.1 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h. A true top whack of 200 km/h tells us that this 1.5-tonne compact SUV is no slouch at all.
It’s not just about performance. The Q3 S Edition is also a great small SUV to drive. This may not be a petrol-powered machine, but the combination of the 2.0-litre TDi motor and the six-speed manual gearbox injects an extra dose of life into the Q3 S Edition. It feels exciting, powerful and extremely fun to drive. The overwhelming feeling of driving a manual Audi is something to be experienced. The refinement, linear power delivery and incredible torque output at 1,500 revolutions per minute make it one of the most easy-to-drive luxury cars in India. It is simply effortless to drive even with a manual gearbox. Granted, it sometimes becomes painful to drive in the pathetic Indian traffic. However, once you get out of the traffic and on to a smooth road with a lot of zigzags, corners and uphill ascents, you are rewarded with one of the best driving experiences ever.
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