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Audi reveals new slant on Q3 with sleek Sportback model

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Audi has revealed the Q3 Sportback, a coupe-inspired take on the company’s popular SUV.

Lower and slightly longer than the standard Q3, it’s designed to go up against other SUV-coupe hybrids such as the BMW X4.

The Sportback has a 29mm drop in roof height and a 16mm increase in length. Although it’s actually a fraction narrower than the Q3, it’s been styled with lots of creases and lines aimed at creating the illusion of increased width.

Rear headroom decreases as a result of the sloping roofline, but sliding rear seats means the 530-litre boot from the standard Q3 is retained.

A choice of three engines will be offered at launch — a 227bhp, 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel available in either 148bhp or 187bhp strengths.

Coming later is a 147-bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder that gets an efficiency boost from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system – this is said to save 0.38 litres of fuel for every 62 miles driven, according to Audi’s boffins.

Both the petrol and more powerful diesel unit will be offered with a seven-speed automatic gearbox, though the lower-output diesel will send its drive through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Quattro all-wheel drive is standard except on the entry-level 1.5-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines, which come with front-wheel drive.

The interior of the Q3 Sportback is retained from the regular car, which is no bad thing. A huge 10.1-inch infotainment system continues to take centre stage in the cabin.

There are a few new technology changes, however, including a system that can tell you when traffic lights ahead will turn green and integration of Amazon Alexa voice control.

Performance and fuel economy figures for the Q3 Sportback will be released close to the car going on sale.

Speaking of which, it goes on sale in the Autumn, with prices expected to start around the £35,000 mark.

jmckeown@thecourier.co.uk