Audi's Q2 and Q3 compact SUVs offer premium badges in a versatile package, but which one is the better choice for you? Here we compare the two against each other across key areas to help you decide.
The Q2 was part of Audi's surge into the SUV market when it arrived in 2016, bringing funky styling to appeal to a new generation of buyers. A few years later, the second-generation Q3 upped the practicality and refinement to take on premium and mainstream rivals. Both offer smart interiors and an upmarket image, but there are important differences between them.
Audi Q2 vs Audi Q3
Practicality
The Q3 has a clear advantage when it comes to interior space and practicality. While the Q2 has decent room for a small SUV, the Q3 offers significantly more rear legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. Its boot is also larger (405 litres for the Q2 vs 530 litres for the Q3), and the rear seats slide to prioritise passenger or luggage space as needed.
The Q2's boot is reasonably spacious for its class, but there are more versatile options like the Renault Captur with sliding rear seats. So if ultimate practicality is a priority, the Q3 is a much better choice in this comparison.
Driving Impressions
Neither the Q2 nor Q3 is designed as a driver's car, but they offer secure, comfortable handling that will satisfy most buyers. The Q2 has light steering and a composed ride, making it easy to drive around town. Enthusiasts may prefer the slightly sportier edge of the Q3, especially S line models with stiffened suspension.
Most Q2s are front-wheel drive, while quattro all-wheel drive is standard on higher Q3 trims for improved traction. The Q3 Sportback also aims for a touch more dynamism over the regular Q3.
For most buyers, the Q3 has a slight dynamic edge but both prioritise comfort over agility. The exception here is the SQ2, which features a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and sharp, engaging handling.
Technology and Equipment
You can expect a typically upmarket Audi interior in both the Q2 and Q3, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The Q3 has a few more cheap plastic trims that let it down slightly, but both get Audi's excellent Virtual Cockpit digital dials.
The Q2 uses a rotary controller for its infotainment system, reducing distraction, while the Q3's touchscreen can be trickier to use on the move despite its smart visuals. Higher Q3 trims get larger displays and more advanced features.
In terms of standard kit, even entry Q3 Sport models are generously equipped. But overall, there's not a huge difference in on-board technology - the Q2's slightly more intuitive controls arguably give it the edge, but the Q3 counters with more options.
Running Costs
Diesel models are the most efficient in each range - the Q2 35 TDI quattro and Q3 35 TDI can return up to 50mpg and 48mpg respectively. But the petrol engines aren't far behind, like the Q2 35 TFSI manual managing up to 48mpg.
Quattro all-wheel drive and automatic gearboxes inevitably impact economy on higher trims. Servicing costs are reasonable through Audi schemes, and residual values for both models are strong, offsetting their somewhat high price relative to rivals.
Verdict
The Audi Q2 and Q3 are both appealing premium SUV choices, but which one comes out on top depends on your priorities. The Q3 offers significantly more interior space and practicality, making it the sensible choice for family buyers.
However, the Q2 has slightly lower running costs and a more user-friendly interior layout. Its quirky styling may also appeal to buyers seeking something a little different from the typical SUV look.
Keen drivers may slightly prefer the Q3's more dynamic edge, but (SQ2 aside) neither is really designed with enthusiasts in mind.
Ultimately, the Q2 has some advantages but the Q3 is the more practical, refined choice for those who can stretch to it - it'd be our recommendation here.