Drivetrain

The new Audi Q3* is available with two different transmissions: the six-speed manual and the S tronic with either six or seven speeds. Their lower gears are sportily short, whereas the highest gear is tall to reduce engine speed and fuel consumption. The manual transmission, which enables easy and precise gear changes with short throws, has a particularly lightweight magnesium case.

Lightning-fast: the S tronic
The S tronic comprises two transmission sections configured similarly to a manual transmission. The two multi-plate clutches are arranged radially, one above the other. The large, outer K1 clutch transfers the engine’s power via a solid shaft to the gear wheels for gears one, three and five (in the case of the seven-speed S tronic, to gear seven as well). A hollow shaft rotates around the solid shaft. It is connected to the second, smaller K2 clutch, which controls the gear wheels for the gears two, four and six, as well as reverse gear.

While driving, only one transmission section is coupled to the engine at any given time, but both are continually active. For example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission section. The shifting process takes place by switching clutches; this happens in just a few hundredths of a second with no detectable interruption of propulsive power. Gear changes are so fast and smooth as to be barely noticeable.

Audi Q3 drivers can operate the compact dual-clutch transmission themselves using the selector lever or the optional shift paddles on the steering wheel. Automatic operation offers a choice between the modes S and D. If the Audi drive select dynamic handling system (standard with the lines design and sport) is set to efficiency mode, the S tronic switches into freewheeling mode when coasting and allows the engine to idle in order to save fuel.

Traction: quattro permanent all-wheel drive
quattro permanent all-wheel drive makes the compact premium SUV even sportier, safer and more stable. The heart of this system is the new fifth-generation, hydraulically-actuated, electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch that debuted in the S1. To achieve a more balanced axle load distribution, the clutch is located on the end of the prop shaft, in front of the rear axle differential.

During normal driving, most of the engine’s power is sent to the front wheels. If traction decreases there, the multi-plate clutch can transfer torque steplessly to the rear axle in just a few milliseconds by forcing the packages of plates together via controlled action. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the oil pressure.

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.