2017 Audi Q3 Gets Aggressive Revamp To Ape Q7

Audi's Q3 baby premium SUV is getting a makeover, with a sharper design that borrows cues from its Q7 big brother, as well as a more sporting S line version. Expected to hit dealer forecourts from fall 2016, the 2017 Q3 has bolder crease-lines and a more aggressive grille, and there's a new Q3 S line competition model added to the line-up.

The single-frame trapezoidal grille is more three-dimensional than before, and on the sport line trims is finished in stone grey and accompanied by larger outer air inlets and body-color blades beneath.

There are new diamond-pattern inserts for the inlets, a split front skirt, and contrast high-gloss black mesh.

As for the new Q3 S line competition, that finishes both air intakes and grille in high-gloss black, paired with black arches and door trim strips, roof rails, mirror housings, and the window trim.

The finish also reappears at the rear, with the roof edges spoiler and lower bumper the same color.

Inside, the S line competition version gets combination black leather and fabric sport seats, with power lumber support and S line embosses. Leather-Alcantara combination and Fine Nappa leather are on the options sheet.

Stainless steel pedals and foot rest are fitted, and the manual Q3 – which is unlikely to make it to the US – has an aluminum and leather shift knob. A 3-spoke sports wheel with a flat bottom and multifunction controls has S line branding and contrast stitching.

Meanwhile, there's S line sport suspension as standard on the Q3 S line competition, along with drive select dynamic handling and a driver information display. The car also gets 19-inch wheels with a gloss black, 10-Y-spoke design from the Audi Sport range; under the hood will be a choice of the same engines available in the regular cars.

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All in all, it's a polished update to bring the Q3 more in line with what we've seen from the 2017 Q7. The bigger SUV obviously has more gadgetry and more luxury accommodation, but the stylistic cues are clear and leave the new Q3 looking more purposeful overall.

Germany and other European countries will be the first to get the new Q3 this year, with pricing expected to stick at 2016 levels. The Q3 S line competition will start at 33,050 EUR ($37,156); US pricing and availability are yet to be confirmed.