[dipaola]

I'm currently driving an Audi Q3 with all available options, and I'm looking to purchase a new one (2018) but I discovered that there are absolutely no new changes from the 2015 model to the 2018 model.

How can this be true?

They still haven't added Memory seats, and the HomeLink garage door opener is still a port-side option.

Also, MMI has not been updated.

Sadly, if you look at a VW Tiguan SEL Premium edition, it has options that the Q3 doesn't even offer (from adaptive cruise control apple carplay to a digital cockpit.

What gives?

 

[2018AudiQ3]

I purchased the 2018 Q3 about three weeks ago. The Q3 seems to be a generation behind the Q5. I imagine that the 2019 Q3 will feature some of the new design elements seen in the 2018 Q5. My previous car (not an Audi) was a first year redesign and the engine block cracked after the warranty period ended. Luckily this was a known defect and the dealer replaced the engine free of charge. The engine block defect was corrected in subsequent year models. Ever since then, I promised myself I would never get a first year redesign. I’d rather wait for all the kinks to get worked out and get a solid build.

I agree the VW Tiguan is a great value. You get a lot of great options with the SEL Premium that aren’t even available in the Q3. However, I test drove the Tiguan and was not impressed. The engine noise was loud, the road noise was evident, and the ride was not as smooth. Overall I felt the vehicle was not as well insulated or refined as the Q3. The Tiguan makes up for the ride quality with a plethora of options (virtual cockpit, adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, hands free tailgate, etc.). I think it depends on what is most important to the driver. For me, the ride quality and reliability were the determining factors.

 

[dipaola]

I drove the Tiguan today. Absolutely a totally different car. Ride quality is not comparable

I heard they?re refreshing the Q3 sometime in 2018. Anyone know when?

 

[rnlabas]

It is likely the 2019 model will be built on the MQB platform and you will see a plethora of updates including most of what you're seeking ...

 

[S4'ed]

The 2016 refresh adds a different grill, different headlights, different tail lights, a USB 5V power port, and some updates to the infotainment head-unit....but yes, all very minor changes compared to the 2015.

The new Gen-2 MBQ Tiguan drives very differently than the Gen-1 Q3....and I don't mean better....more like a generic Honda or Toyota....I test drove both models numerous times, for extended test drives, and decided that the Q3 felt/drove much more like a European car....and I bought a CPO Q3 rather than a new Tiguan.

 

[MattBurditt1]

I drove the 2018 Q3 in a few month ago. my sister in law buys this car. Absolutely a totally different car. Ride quality is not comparable

 

[dipaola]

Roger, is it true that the 2018 model wont see a refresh?

If so, I'm going to try and delay giving back my 2015 lease so that I can hold off for the 2019 model.

When would the 2019 model be available in 2018 (what month normally)?

 

[Q3User]

Roger, is it true that the 2018 model wont see a refresh?

If so, I'm going to try and delay giving back my 2015 lease so that I can hold off for the 2019 model.

When would the 2019 model be available in 2018 (what month normally)?

Audi/VW usaully have long product cycle.

The Q3 was out in Europe ~2-3 years before coming to US as a 2015 model.
So the 2019 model year date (tba in 2018 calendar) is not too far reached.
And it'll most likely be a 2020 model for US because of the 1 year lag.

 

[dipaola]

I had my 2018 Q3 dropped off yesterday and as I suspected, there are very very few add's to the Q3 that I can tell (in comparison to the 2015 Q3).

They brought back the S-Line badging finally.

They now make the side mirrors fold in automatically when the car is locked.

They added a little flare look to the front grill (as part of the S-Line).

Minor changes to the style of the headlights and LED's

Minor changes to the brake light LED's

Minor sound change to the "beep" it makes when locking the car.

They added a USB charger to the front console between the seats.

STILL DOESNT HAVE MEMORY SEATS!
STILL DOESNT HAVE APPLE CAR PLAY!

More to come after I take it for a nice long drive today!

 

[rentalcarsuae12]

Good Post.