Audi's all new Q3 has just been released, which was not unexpected considering Audi has a vehicle in every segment that BMW has one.
The new Q3 is certainly aesthetically pleasing, but when I first saw it, I didn't have a strong reaction one way or the other. I think that is a function of the fact that like most Audis today, it is fairly similar to every other Audi product, especially the Q5. So while it's not ugly, it is a bit booring to me.
Regardless, we bring you this photo comparison between the Audi Q3 and the BMW X1, a car which has been on the market for 2-3 years now. You be the judge! (Try voting in
our poll above)
Sizing the two cars up, the X3 comes in a little bit longer and lower then the Q3 (check out the full figures below) while the Q3 has a bit more cargo space, mainly due to the shape of that rounded trunk.
At launch, the Q3 is planned to arrive with two gasoline and one diesel engine with Audi's bespoke Quattro AWD system and 7-speed dual clutch system. Non Quattro FWD will also be available. The BMW X1 of course comes in an AWD and Rear Wheel Drive variant. The Q3 will use the well known VW/Audi 2.0T engine with max power set at 211 HP for the top tuned variant, in contrast to the X1 sDrive28i which will recieve the new
N20 engine, a 2.0L turbo four which produces 240hp (See:
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477882). The N20 gives the BMW the decided powertrain victory.
The Audi Q3 will start at €29,900 for the base version in comparison to the entry level X1 sDrive18i which comes in at €27,600.
| Specifications | Length | Width | Height | Cargo Capacity | Wheelbase | Weight |
| BMW X1 | 175.3 inches | 78.9 inches | 60.8 inches | 16.9-47.7 cu. feet | 108.6 inches | 3317 lbs |
| Audi Q3 | 172.6 inches | 79.4 inches | 63.3 inches | 16.2-48.2 cu. feet | 102.4 inches | 3306 lbs |
BMW X1 M-Sport vs. Audi Q3 S-Line
