2018 Audi Q3, Q7 Design Editions launched

Audi has launched special editions of the Q3 and Q7 in India, at Rs 40.76 and Rs 82.37 lakh, respectively. Badged as Design Editions, these models get additional equipment on the insides and cosmetic changes on their exteriors.

The Q3 Design Edition is only available as the 35TDI model, powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, turbo-diesel motor that makes 184hp and 380Nm of peak torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission. Audi claims a fuel efficiency figure of 15.17kpl for the Q3 35TDI.

The Design Edition slots between the Premium Plus (Rs 39.68 lakh) and the Technology (Rs 42.88 lakh) trims in the Q3’s line-up. As such it gets all the kit found on the Premium Plus variant (18-inch alloys, LED headlamps with LED DRLs, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, Audi’s MMI infotainment system, cruise control, parking assist and more). Yet, the Design Edition adds features such as clear-lens tail-lamps, quattro decals on the side, illuminated door sills and a key cover that matches the exterior finish on the outside. The cabin now also features Nappa leather upholstery and a coat hanger.

The new body-coloured key available on the Q3 Design Edition.

The special-edition Q7 comes with the 252hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine in the 40TFSI and the 249hp, 3.0-litre turbo-diesel motor in the 45TDI. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic powering all the wheels. The ARAI-rated fuel efficiency for these engines is 11.68kpl and 14.75kpl, respectively.

As with the Q3, the Q7 Design Edition is positioned between the Premium Plus (Rs 73.73-77.90 lakh) and the Technology variants (Rs 81.00-85.18 lakh). In addition to features such as Matrix LED headlamps with DRLs, 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with navigation and more, the Design Edition gets smoked tail-lamps, Audi-emblem decals on the D-pillar, rear­-seat entertainment and a cool bag branded by Audi.

The rear entertainment system on the Q7 Design Edition.

These special edition models should help Audi retail a few more units of the respective SUVs. The Q3 competes against the likes of the Mercedes GLA, BMW X1 and the recently launched Volvo XC40, while the Q7 rivals the Mercedes GLS, BMW X5 and Volvo’s XC90.

All prices, ex-showroom, India