The Audi A3 and Q2 represent two different takes on premium compact vehicles from the German luxury brand. The A3 is a traditional hatchback, while the Q2 is a compact crossover tapping into the current SUV craze. Both offer upscale interiors and technology, but differ in their overall practicality and driving experiences. Let's take a closer look at how they stack up.
Audi A3 Mk4 vs Audi Q2
Practicality
The A3 and the Q2 are in fact very similar in terms of the practicality on offer, but it is the Q2 that edges the win. For that you can thank its slightly more elevated ride height, which makes it easier to get in and out of the car, and its superior boot capacity of 405 litres versus the 380 litres that you get in the A3. The caveat here is that if you opt for the A3 Saloon instead of the Sportback hatchback then you get more boot space even than the Q2, at 425 litres.
All that being said, both of these cars will cope well with family duties, and are quite capable of carrying four people in comfort. Getting three people across the rear bench is going to feel tight in either car, but the same can be said about any of their respective rivals, too. Both also features lots of adjustment in their driving positions, and a decent amount of in-car storage.
Driving Impressions
The A3 continues to impress as a rewarding driver's car in the premium hatchback class. It strikes a fine balance between comfort and engagement, with a slightly firm but well-resolved ride. Body control is excellent, and while not quite as agile as the BMW 1 Series, it's more comfortable. The steering is responsive too.
The Q2 crossover is more of a tourer, focusing on ease of use rather than outright thrills. Most versions drive the front wheels, with quattro AWD reserved for upper trims. It's a competent companion around town and on the motorway, with light steering and acceptable ride comfort. However, the A3 has the edge for driving enjoyment.
For those seeking a sportier drive, both the S3 and SQ2 will fit the bill. The A3-based RS3 meanwhile is a supercar in the body of a family hatchback.
Technology and Equipment
As you'd expect from Audi, both the A3 and Q2 feature upscale cabins with impressive material quality and user-friendly tech. The A3 gets the brand's latest 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, along with the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. Standard kit is generous even on base trims.
The Q2's interior is essentially lifted from the previous A3, with a rotary MMI controller rather than a touchscreen. It's an intuitive setup with crisp graphics and seamless smartphone mirroring. While lacking the latest system, it avoids being an overly distracting touchscreen. In fact, there's an argument to be made that with its plush materials and cohsive design the Q2 actually feels like the more luxurious option in this comparison.
Running Costs
There's little to separate the A3 and Q2 when it comes to running costs. Both will be more expensive to buy and maintain than mainstream alternatives, but residual values should remain strong. The A3's official fuel economy figures closely match the Q2's, with diesels from both returning over 60mpg.
The A3 35 TFSI petrol gets around 50mpg, edging the Q2 35 TFSI's 44-48mpg. However, the Q2 diesel's standard AWD system hampers its efficiency somewhat. Insurance and servicing costs will be on par across the two models. For those interested in electrification, only the A3 is offered as a plug-in hybrid, and a very good one at that.
Verdict
The Audi A3 and Q2 both bring a premium badge and upscale interiors to the compact vehicle class, but they take slightly different approaches. The A3 hatchback has the edge for driving dynamics and efficiency (particularly if you go for the plug-in hybrid model), while the Q2 crossover offers a more commanding driving position and on-trend SUV style.
For those who prioritise load-lugging versatility and ease of access, the Q2 is marginally the smarter choice. But if ultimate dynamic polish matters more to you, the A3 will prove to be the more satisfying purchase.