AUDI

Audi Q3 2026 Diesel: the new 193hp diesel model with a range of 900 kilometers

That the transition to electrification is slowing down is a fact. And there are signs that confirm it, such as the policy of some brands to relaunch diesel. Audi has also joined this trend... or at least that's what it suggests by doubling the diesel options in its smallest SUV, the Audi Q3, which now receives a second TDI variant: more powerful and with all-wheel drive.

The driving dynamics have also been optimized. The Q3 can be equipped with a new suspension featuring twin-valve dampers, which independently adjust compression and rebound damping to maximize comfort and agility. Progressive steering improves maneuverability, especially in urban areas or parking lots, while the Audi Drive Select system now includes a default ‘Balanced’ mode that seeks a balance between efficiency and sportiness.

The German brand expands the range with the Audi Q3 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic with 193 hp, a variant that stands out as the highest-performance diesel option of the compact SUV and is available for both the conventional body and the Q3 Sportback.

Under the hood, you'll find the familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing 193 hp and 400 Nm of torque, available between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. This engine comes standard with a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system, managed by an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch.

More than 900 kilometers without refueling...One of the main attractions of this new version is its efficiency on long journeys. Official fuel consumption figures range between 6.1 and 6.7 l/100 km, which, combined with the 58-liter tank, allows for a range of more than 900 kilometers without refueling.

But the Q3 TDI quattro doesn't compromise on performance. With this engine, the compact SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and reaches 221 km/h, figures that put it practically on par with gasoline versions of similar power.

Traction Four, how it works...Inside the clutch is a pack of discs in an oil bath. When 4WD needs to be engaged, the discs are subjected - through the action of an electro-hydraulic pump - to a pressure that, by generating friction, puts the main drive shaft in communication with the secondary shaft connected to the rear axle shafts, increasing the torque transferred to the rear axle. The system detects the car's behaviour and driving style, adjusting the distribution of thrust - which is totally variable - between the axles in real time. 

When starting off or on low-grip surfaces, the clutch intervenes in a fraction of a second: the electric piston pump develops up to 44 bar of hydraulic pressure on the disc pack. The torque transferred to the rear axle is thus proportional to the pressure exerted on the clutch discs. The distribution of thrust also takes place during cornering. When it comes to controlling Audi drive select dynamics, the all-wheel drive brings with it the "offroad+" mode, which adjusts the powertrain output, the intervention logic of the dual-clutch gearbox, traction and stability control, the suspension settings - if adaptive dampers are fitted - and Abs as well as the distribution of thrust between front and rear axle during off-road driving.

Audi Q3 expands its offering with the introduction of the powerful 2.0 Tdi version, combined with Quattro all-wheel drive. Previously offered with a 150 bhp mild-hybrid 48V 1.5 Tfsi and 204 and 265 bhp 2.0 Tfsi petrol engines with all-wheel drive, or with the 272 bhp plug-in powertrain, the Q3 and Q3 Sportback now add the four-cylinder 2.0 Tdi in the 193 bhp and 400 Nm of torque step combined with quattro traction. Values that allow a 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds, a full 1.7 seconds faster than the 2.0 Tdi 150 hp variant, and a top speed of 220 km/h. Diesel engines that now account for more than 50 per cent of Q3 registrations. Offered in Business, Business Advanced and S line editions, they are on sale from 52,100 euro for the Standard version and 54,100 euro for the Sportback.

Audi Q3 diesel 4x4, fuel consumption...All-terrain traction and low running costs. Audi Q3 2.0 claims low fuel consumption of 6.1-6.8 litres per 100 kilometres and emissions of 160-177 grams/km CO2. These results are possible thanks to solutions such as separate cooling circuits, the double balancer shaft and the radical reduction of internal friction.

Audi has opened orders and the first units will arrive at dealerships starting this summer. Prices start at €53,230 for the Q3 SUV and €55,130 for the Q3 Sportback, with the usual trim levels: Business, Advanced, S line and Black line.

Autonews