Audi Q3
MODEL: 45 TFSI e Black Edition
PRICE: £44,070
POWERTRAIN: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 13kWh battery, 242bhp
COMPARED with some of the flashy alternatives in this segment, the Q3 almost looks subtle. But while it’s easy to overlook the styling, there’s still plenty to admire. Firstly there’s its ride comfort, which is relaxing and supple, yet taut enough to deliver reasonable body control. The Q3 is great at motorway cruising, yet light steering makes it easy to manoeuvre around town.
However, the PHEV powertrain is showing its age. The 1.4-litre four-cylinder works alongside a 114bhp electric motor; not only is the 242bhp output behind the best rivals, but it’s clunky in its operation, too. Officially, 31 miles of EV-only range is one of the lowest figures here, and the battery only…