The body of the Audi Q3* is the foundation for the balanced handling, the quiet cabin and safety. Weighing roughly 300 kilograms (661.4 lb), it plays a major role in the lightweight construction concept for the compact premium SUV. The Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI has a curb weight (without driver) of just 1,385 kilograms (3,053.4 lb).

Lightweight construction: hot-shaped steel and aluminum
Topping the materials pyramid are hot-shaped steels. They are first heated in a furnace to more than 900 degrees Celsius (1,652.0 degrees Fahrenheit) and then cooled to around 200 degrees Celsius (392.0 degrees Fahrenheit) in a water-cooled pressing die. This change in temperature makes them extremely strong. They require relatively thin wall thickness and are accordingly lightweight. Making up 13 percent of the body, hot-shaped steels are the backbone of the occupant cell. They are used in the transition to the front end, at the center tunnel, in large areas of the roof frame, for the interior sills and for the B-pillars.

The engine hood and wrap-around tailgate of the Audi Q3 are made of aluminum. They weigh only 8.8 and 10.8 kilograms (19.4 and 23.8 lb), respectively – nearly 50 percent less than corresponding parts of steel sheet. The engine hood is secured to the body by two releases. This enables a design with relatively low sheet thicknesses yet high geometrical stability.

Torsion rings in the area of the rear seats and the tailgate opening make significant contributions to stiffness and vibrational comfort. Bulkheads and creases break up large cavities and steady large sheet metal surfaces. Sophisticated gaskets run around the doors and windows.

Audi also offers an acoustic windshield with a noise-damping intermediate film as an option. Dark privacy glazing is available for the rear windows.

The redesigned Audi Q3 is also state-of-the-art when it comes to passive safety. In the event of a frontal collision, the subframes of the front axle, the longitudinal members and two additional members under the fenders dissipate energy. If the other vehicle involved in the collision comes from the side, the ultra-high-strength B-pillars offer outstanding protection. Two cross-members reinforce the floor structure. The longitudinal members absorb energy in the event of a rear-end collision.

The compact premium SUV comes standard with two front airbags, thorax-pelvis side airbags in the backs of the front seats and curtain head airbags. Pyrotechnic belt tensioners up front, belt force limiters, Isofix child seat attachment points in the rear and the integrated Audi head restraint system round out the package. Rear side airbags are available as an option.

The base version of the Audi Q3 boasts a drag coefficient of 0.32 and has a frontal area of 2.44 m2 (26.3 sq ft). The low lift at the axles ensures good stability at high speed. The large spoiler above the rear window extends the roof contour by 32 centimeters (12.6 in). Two aero strips to the left and right of the window form lateral spoiler lips. Many additional body details contribute to the good aerodynamics and aeroacoustics. A plastic underbody liner provides for aerodynamic air flow, and cooling air flows virtually loss-free through the engine compartment.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.