Audi Q3 Sportback e-Hybrid driving report: PHEV with DC charger

Contents

The plug-in hybrid drive concept is polarizing: for some, it combines the worst of both worlds, while others see a perfect combination of petrol engine and electric motor. In the Q3, Audi utilizes the possibilities of a multi-brand network and uses the plug-in hybrid drive, which is now available in various Group models. The Audi Q3 e-Hybrid with 200 kW was available to us as a Sportback for an initial short test drive.

DC charging possible

The drive itself is therefore no stranger. A 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers 130 kW in this configuration, the electric motor 85 and the system output is 200 kW. Volkswagen also has a weaker version with a system output of 150 kW in its program. The battery offers a usable energy content of 19.7 kWh. Audi promises a range of between 105 and 119 km in the WLTP. Compared to its predecessor, not only has the energy content been significantly increased, but also the charging capacity. Three-phase charging with up to 11 kW is now possible with alternating current and up to 50 kW with direct current. With the latter, the Q3 also outperforms larger Audi models with PHEV drive: the Q5 and A5 cannot be charged with direct current.

No all-wheel drive in the PHEV

However, the smaller SUV is not available with all-wheel drive, even at extra cost, although it could make good use of it. Neither a full power demand nor a wet road is needed to bring the drive wheels to the edge of their grip limit. Then the noticeable drive forces in the steering wheel are annoying. The suspension setup is otherwise quite successful. The springs and dampers, which can be electronically controlled on request, are firmer than those of many competitors without being uncomfortable. The steering is precise, and the brakes are grippy. With the optional 20-inch tires, it gets quite bumpy—18- or 19-inch wheels are more comfortable.

Quiet and spontaneous—in electric mode

It's not just the better environmental balance that speaks in favor of electric driving. Quiet and responsive, this mode is the more pleasant part. The combustion engine is also well insulated and remains acoustically in the background—as long as the driver does not demand it. Under load, however, it sounds anything but superior, although there is really nothing to criticize about the official driving performance. Audi promises a standard sprint time of 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 215 km/h. It is a pity, however, that the drive is sometimes slightly delayed in its response to spontaneous acceleration inputs. In this respect, a Q4 e-tron outpaces it. The PHEV also has only limited towing capacity. The electric car can tow up to 1200 kg, with a maximum of 1400 kg for the Q3 PHEV, with a braked trailer on a maximum gradient of 12 percent.

Shrunken boot

The glamour of earlier days is gone in the interior. The Q3 does not quite reach the superficially high-quality level of past Audi models, although the SUV has nothing to hide internationally in this respect. However, the workmanship in the test model we traveled in was faultless. The seats in the front and rear are comfortable. The available space can be utilized variably, as the rear bench can be moved. On average, the luggage compartment in the plug-in hybrid only holds 375 liters; models with only a combustion engine are considerably more spacious at 488 liters.

You soon get used to the two new steering levers with wide control modules for indicators and windshield wipers on the left and gear selection on the right. The touch surfaces on the steering wheel are not ideal here either. Volkswagen is returning to buttons in some models for a reason. Instead, the voice control functions at a level that is actually useful.

Uncharming drolleries

In Sportback packaging, the Q3 PHEV costs at least 51,150 Euro, almost 2000 Euro more than the comparable Q3 with a steep rear end. The current 142-page price list offers plenty of opportunities to let off steam. It includes matte paint finishes (5500 Euro), black 20-inch rims (2240 Euro), and OLED rear lights (1050 Euro). There are also uncharming quirks, such as the fact that heated front seats are only available in one package or that extending the warranty to five years costs at least 690 euros. If you like, you can get one of two garage carpets from Audi Accessories for 120 Euro or a mobile coffee machine with a 12-volt connection for 260 Euro. Can either of these help to end the rifts in the polarizing debate about drive systems? After all, 1 October is International Coffee Day—perhaps this is an opportunity to give it a try.

(mki)