Audi Q3 looms ever closer

Audi is set to take its SUV attack downscale via the upcoming Q3, prototype mules of which have been spied with increasing frequency over the past couple of months.

Conceived to sit below the Q5, it's believed the compact crossover will use the Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform that underpins the VW Tiguan, as well as the Golf Mk6.

The Q3 is expected to debut in the second half of 2011 (possibly at the Frankfurt motor show), and it's tipped to derive its styling inspiration from the 2007 Cross Coupe quattro concept (pictured).

The final production version should carry over the proportions of the concept, but many of the details -- such as the chrome-laden grille and wheels -- may be toned down somewhat.

Measuring a diminutive 4380mm long, 1820mm wide and 1600mm tall, the Cross Coupe Quattro points to a vehicle that will be more lifestyle/sports-focused than the family-oriented Q5 and Q7.

Unlike its bigger brothers (which use a longitudinal engine layout), the Q3's powerplant will be mounted east-west, and will be offered with the VW Group's DSG dual-clutch sequential gearbox.

Euro sources suggest the engine line-up will include a 155kW 2.0-litre turbo four-pot (as featured in the current Golf GTI), as well as a 171kW 3.0 turbo-diesel V6 and a 210kW 3.6 FSI V6 for the flagship.

While the vehicle is likely to be available in both front-wheel drive and quattro all-wheel-drive variants, there will be no height-adjustable suspension, lockable differentials or low-range gearing.

The Q3's arrival in Australia is likely to provide a substantial boost to Audi's SUV sales as buyers are increasingly look to downsize, and the company is believed to be also working on an even smaller Q1 baby crossover to cash in on the trend.

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